Gongdong Church Introduction
Kong-Tong Chapel: A Gem of Modernist Architecture in Taiwan Kong-Tong Chapel is located within the campus of Kong-Tong Vocational High School, founded by Rev. Jakob Hilber (1917–1985) in 1960. It is one of the important representatives of modernist architecture in Taiwan. Designed by Swiss architect Justus Dahinden (1925–2020), the chapel was constructed using fair-faced concrete, featuring a minimalist appearance that mimics the shape of Noah's Ark. The interior design emphasizes the beauty of natural light and lines, resembling the style of architectural master Le Corbusier (1887–1965), which has earned it the nickname "Taiwan's Chapel of Leisure". Completed in 1960, the chapel was finished earlier than other modern buildings in Taiwan, such as the Luce Memorial Chapel and the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and in 2017 it was awarded first place in "Modern Architecture" by the World Monuments Fund. The chapel's establishment and the development of Kong-Tong Vocational High School traces back to Rev. Hilber, who arrived in Taitung from Switzerland in 1953 and dedicated himself to improving local living conditions. He raised 150,000 francs to establish Kong-Tong Vocational High School in 1960, introducing the Swiss apprenticeship education model. From its founding until 1974, he invited 21 professional technical teachers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland to impart practical skills, making Kong-Tong a pioneer in Taiwan's vocational education and nurturing a large number of technical talents, laying a foundation for the development of Taiwan's furniture industry. Kong-Tong Chapel is the first building on the campus, with a highly creative functional design. The first floor serves as a training workshop, while the second and third floors are student dormitories, with the chapel situated at the top, symbolizing the supreme nature of faith. The stained glass within the chapel is vividly colored, with an artistic style that breaks traditional boundaries, presenting a strong spirit of innovation. Restoration and Historical Preservation: Due to the rainy climate and the impact of the 921 Earthquake, Kong-Tong Chapel's structure was damaged and was once listed as a dangerous building. In 2003, the Taitung County Government designated it as a historical building, and restoration work commenced with the donations from alumni and government subsidies. Starting in 2017, lawmakers and the Ministry of Culture actively sought funding, completing the first phase of restoration work (with a total budget of 24 million NTD) which was finished in 2023. The second phase of the restoration plan was also approved in 2023, with a total budget of 19.98 million NTD allocated for structural testing, display projects, and landscape improvement, with plans to turn the chapel into a historical relic exhibition space to preserve local cultural stories. The Deep Significance of the Building: Kong-Tong Chapel is not only a treasure of architectural art but also carries profound meanings of education and religion. Rev. Hilber's selfless love and dedication brought hope and a future to the children of Taitung. His spirit has touched countless individuals, serving as a model for educators. Today, Kong-Tong Chapel stands silently on campus, witnessing this moving history and continuing to inspire future generations in their contemplation and pursuit of education, faith, and art.
1
1-2
