Taiwan

The Church of the Lutheran Brethren sent its first missionaries to China in 1902. After mainland China was closed to missionary work in 1948, Lutheran Brethren World Missions began a ministry in Taiwan where many mainland Chinese fled to escape Communism. Since the arrival of our first missionary family in 1951, several churches have been planted and a seminary begun in cooperation with three other Lutheran missions and four National Churches. We have a growing work and presence among the Hakka people, one of the least evangelized people in Taiwan.

Originally from mainland China, the Hakka migrated to Taiwan early in the 18th century. There are more than three million Hakka people in Taiwan today, most living with all of the modern conveniences that we have in America - from washing machines to cell phones. Materialism is widespread.

At home and in their community, the Hakka of Taiwan use their mother tongue, Hakka, though many can speak Mandarin Chinese. The Hakkas' religious beliefs and customs are similar to those of other traditional Chinese. Ancestor worship is probably one of the biggest stumbling blocks that potential Hakka Christians face. It is generally believed that when a Hakka person becomes a Christian, he forsakes his ancestors and close family relations. Because the Hakka people are very conscious of social pressure, both from their families and neighbors, it takes great determination to follow Jesus. Less than 3/1000 (0.3%) are Christians.

Missionaries

Ethan and Sandy
Caleb, Hannah

Ethan and Sandy are church planters who are targeting the Hakka Chinese of northern Taiwan.  Pray that they will have confidence and wisdom as they sharpen the tools that God is providing for them to bring the unchangeable gospel message to this unreached people group.

Birthdays

• Ethan, March 10
• Sandy, June 18
• Caleb March 18, 1993
• Hannah, March 22, 1998

Mike and Delores

Mike and Delores have a ministry to the Hakka people of Hsinchu. They are working with our Hakka team and several LB churches emphasizing evangelism and outreach to Hakkas. Mike and Delores have been with LBWM since 1987.

Birthdays

• Mike, January 2
• Delores, October 13

Andrew and Kris
Isaak, Noelle, Joseph

Andrew and Kris have just completed three years of Hakka language and culture learning. They will now join together with our other missionaries in Taiwan to form a team partnering with established congregations to reach Hakkas with the message of Jesus. Andrew and Kris have been with LBWM since 2005.

Birthdays

• Andrew, January 24
• Kris, April 14
• Isaak, May 24, 2004
• Noelle, March 23, 2006
• Joseph, May 31, 2007