Xincheng Catholic Church Introduction
Hidden between the alleys of Xin Cheng Township, the Catholic Church resembles Noah's Ark in design. It is notably built on the site of the former Xin Cheng Shrine from the Japanese colonial period, representing a fusion of two different faiths due to historical evolution and the wisdom of the priests. Upon arriving at Xin Cheng Park, after passing through the archway (originally the first torii of the shrine), turn left and walk straight to find the second torii of the shrine, with the words "Catholic Church" above it. From the torii, looking down the worship path, you'll see lush greenery and elegant flowers on both sides, along with red stone lanterns standing sentinel. In front of the boat-shaped church, the walls are covered with vines, lush with greenery, and stone lanterns are positioned on either side, with a cross vaguely visible above. Continuing forward, you will reach the third torii at the site of the shrine, where stone lanterns are placed, and on either side, komainu (guardian lion-dogs) remain, showcasing the full flavor of Japanese shrine architecture. Passing through the torii and reaching the end, the original shrine's main hall has been transformed into a Madonna pavilion, featuring a statue of the Virgin Mary in front, surrounded by several old pines soaring into the sky, offering a tranquil environment. The Xin Cheng Catholic Church was built in 1956 at the original shrine site, and its overall architectural beauty is considered the finest in eastern Taiwan. The long windows of the boat-shaped church are lined with stained glass, and its washed pebble walls are covered in climbing vines; the interior of the church is clean and simple yet solemn and sacred. A baptismal font is located at the back right, originally a stone for washing hands and cleansing body and mind, now serving as holy water for parishioners, while a small confession area is on the left. The historical mixture of two different faiths allows visitors to see the coexistence of torii and stone lanterns from the Japanese shrine alongside the cross and statue of the Virgin Mary in the Catholic Church, emanating a peaceful and calming energy.
