Chihpen Catholic Church Introduction
Chihpen Catholic Church originated in 1954 and initially rented a thatched hut as a place for preaching. Later, land was purchased, and in 1956, Chihpen Catholic Church, known as "Chihpen Immaculate Conception Church," was built. Over time, it has gradually expanded and established facilities such as a kindergarten and a Catholic Youth Center. The church underwent renovations, during which Father Tseng Jian-Zhi from the Puyuma tribe integrated Puyuma culture into the architectural design. The church is constructed of reinforced concrete, with wooden carvings that represent the characteristics of Puyuma culture adorning its interior and exterior. The main space of the church is made of stacked stone slabs, with totems of the Puyuma tribe carved along the edges of the altar. Surrounding the church are the Our Lady Pavilion, a memorial for Father Fei Dao-Hong, wooden installations, a stone wall depicting stories (the history of the construction and Puyuma myths), and a scenic area with images of the Stations of the Cross, showcasing the integration of indigenous culture with Western religion. Its significant value was recognized in 2004 when the Taitung County government registered it as a historic building. Approaching the church, visitors are inevitably drawn to the stone wall's stories, and the intricately carved columns both inside and outside are remarkable. The most striking feature is the human-shaped wooden seats, rich in Puyuma style and creativity. Whether or not one is a believer, the ingenuity of Chihpen Catholic Church's architecture and cultural integration is truly impressive!
