wfn.org | Taiwan's United Methodist Church Celebrates its 50th

[Taiwan Church News <pctpress@ms1.hinet.net>]

Birthday
Taiwan Church News 2663, March 16, 2003
Reported by Lin Yi-ying. Translated and rewritten by David
Alexander

   Taiwan's United Methodist Church, which began 50 years ago
with 92 members who came here as refugees from China, celebrated
its anniversary on March 8th.  The church now has 3,000 members
and is an active partner in ecumenical organizations and
activities nationwide.
   Wesley Hall in Taipei was filled with church members gathered
from all over Taiwan for the festivities.  Anthems of praise and
thanksgiving were lifted, and District superintendent Chi Hong-yi
preached on upholding truth.
   The church divides its history into three periods.  It's early
years were spent in just getting organized.  Missionaries from
the United Methodist Church in the United States (and its
precursor denominations) were active in the Taiwan church in
these formative years.	The next period began in 1972 when the
church became essentially self supporting and self governing.
The last official missionary presence from America terminated in
1986.
   Currently there are 36 congregations or preaching stations
officially part of the church.	It also supports its own
theological school and is a participant in the operation of
Dongwu University in Taipei City.

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