Four generations thriving in the Brisbane Taiwanese congregation

by Rev Paul Clark 

It’s not something you see in many churches these days – four generations thriving as one.

Rev Malcolm Scanlan and I recently joined the Brisbane Taiwanese congregation as they celebrated 36 years of existence. Initially established in Moorooka, they moved down to Hillcrest over a decade ago.

Their celebration of 36 years was packed – and featured lots of thanks and praise to God in both Taiwanese and English.

The highlight for me was when the choirmaster led the church in a four generations medley. First the Elders stood and sang their praise to God, followed by my generation. Then it was the young adults and finally the children. There was a generous number in each cohort, and they sang with joy.

It’s not something you see in many churches these days, four generations thriving as one. Especially across cultural gullies. I know they would tell me things aren’t perfect, but the maturity, sacrifice, self-giving and self-emptying that they must constantly embrace to enable this, is a joy to experience. Something for all of us to consider.

Once the celebration of worship ended, each generation was involved in the Market Day festivities. Wonderful Taiwanese and other traditional food was on offer, and I queued to fill my basket to overflowing!

The celebration of 36 years was also the launch of their ‘Relocation Project’. They have outgrown their current facilities and are seeking to raise millions of dollars to build a future church that won’t simply bless the Taiwanese who are making Australia home, but the wider community around them. It’s one of the most exciting renewal projects happening in the Uniting Church right now.

Malcolm and I loved celebrating with the community. Keep your ears open for their next Market Day celebration.

If you would like to donate to the Brisbane Taiwanese Uniting Church’s re-location project, donations can be made to:
Acc Name: Building Fund Offering. BSB 034069. Acc No: 485777