"Mama Lou" to Retire and Depart Taiwan
Taiwan Church News 2826 24-30 April 2006
Reported by Li Hsin-ren. Written by David Alexander
Having lived in Taiwan and served the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) for 34 years, Ms. Luise Meier addressed the PCT's 51st General Assembly on 18th April in a word of farewell in advance of her retirement later this year. She said, "In these three decades Taiwan has become my home" She continued by offering thanks to Yushan Theological College and to Taiwan in general for the abundant life of service opportunities she has enjoyed.
Ms. Meier arrived in Taiwan in 1972 under the sponsorship of the Lievenzell Mission. In 1976 she was assigned to Yushan Theological College, which focuses on training members of Taiwan's Aboriginal peoples for church and social ministries. She taught courses in Christian Education, served as the school nurse and supervised a dormitory. Upon her arrival at Yushan she found that medical services on Taiwan's remote east coast were underdeveloped. In her role as school nurse she served as primary care-giver to faculty, staff and students, often sitting up through the night with ill persons to give care and reassurance. Many who experienced her concern and companionship remain deeply grateful. As a member of Yushan's faculty she taught classes, directed the choir, visited local congregations and offered encouragement to thousands of believers. During her time as dormitory supervisor she became known as "Mama Lou." Of that role, she says, "In Taiwan I became the mother of many."
According to the policy of the Liebenzell Mission, Ms. Meier must return to Germany to officially retire. Of the required departure, she says it is another "home leaving", similar to the one she passed through in 1972 when she departed Germany for Taiwan.
On 3rd May the Yushan Alumni Association will host a special commemoration of her service on campus, and invites all to attend.