Wong Kiu-Taik
Rev. Wong Kiu-Taik (also known as Wong Hung-Huong) was a prominent Chinese Christian clergyman and medical missionary in the 19th century. Born in Fuzhou, China, Wong began his career as a landscape painter before his conversion to Christianity in 1857. He became one of the first ordained Chinese ministers in the Fuh-Kien province, joining the Church Missionary Society (CMS) after his baptism by the American Episcopal Methodist Mission. Wong played a critical role in the growth of the Christian community in southeastern China, particularly in Fuh-Kien, where he was deeply involved in pastoral and medical work. His leadership contributed significantly to the development of the native Chinese church, and he is remembered for his dedication to missionary medicine, education, and spiritual service.
Wong Kiu-Taik's journey as a medical missionary took him across many remote regions in China, where he ministered to both the spiritual and physical needs of the communities he served. He is particularly noted for his work in training native catechists, establishing Christian congregations, and advancing medical care in rural areas. Wong's influence extended beyond his immediate ministry, as he helped lay the foundation for future generations of native Christian leaders in China. His legacy includes the establishment of churches, schools, and medical clinics, which continued to serve Chinese Christians long after his passing in 1893.
Early Life and Conversion
[edit]Wong Kiu-Taik, originally a painter of ornamental figures on glass, was baptized in 1857 by the American Episcopal Methodist Mission[1]. Recognized for his dedication and abilities, he joined the Church Missionary Society (C.M.S.) in 1864, serving as Head Catechist at Fuzhou[2]. Though not a graduate of Chinese classicsWong was well-educated and revered for his eloquent preaching and clear reading of Scripture[3].
Ordination and Early Ministry
[edit]Wong was ordained as a deacon on Ascension Day in May 1868 by the Bishop of Victoria, Hong Kong. His ordination was a landmark moment, as he was one of the first native Chinese to don clerical vestments and administer the Lord's Supper. The ceremony drew interest from missionaries across denominations, highlighting his prominence within both local and international Christian communities[4]. The exact date is unknown, but sometimes during this period, Wong Kiu Taik married his wife, Lydia. In 1871, Wong was elevated to priestly orders during the bishop's visitation of the Fuzhou Mission[4].
Contributions to the Fuzhou Mission
[edit]Wong played a crucial role in expanding the Christian mission in Fujian province. By 1871, he accompanied Bishop Burdon and Rev. A. Cribb on an eight-day tour, visiting 18 outstations across a 200-300 mile circuit. The mission included 234 native Christians, 43 communicants, and several catechists. Some highlights of the trip included Lo-nguong, Achia Village, and Sang Jong and Kucheng.
Lo-nguong
[edit]Rebuilding and inaugurating a church destroyed by local opposition[4].
Achia Village
[edit]Confirming 10 converts who vowed to forsake idol worship[3].
Sang Jong and Kucheng
[edit]Meeting small but growing congregations led by zealous converts, including a carpenter and a tailor who actively evangelized[1].
Impact on Native Ministry
[edit]Wong was instrumental in training and mentoring native Christian leaders. He served as pastor for Fuzhou’s native congregation, preached widely, and played a key role in ordaining four native ministers on Easter Day, 1876[3]. Despite retiring briefly in 1877 to practice medicine, Wong later rejoined the C.M.S. as an honorary pastor, underscoring his lifelong commitment to the mission[5].
Advocacy and Public Engagement
[edit]In addition to his pastoral work, Wong contributed to broader discussions within the church. At the 1883 Annual Conference in Fuzhou, he delivered an address on "Thy Kingdom Come" and discussed the significance of medical work in evangelism[6]. His advocacy extended to condemning social issues like foot-binding and advocating for women’s rights.
Legacy and Death
[edit]Wong’s tireless efforts significantly strengthened the C.M.S. mission in Fujian. By 1893, his leadership had yielded numerous native Christian leaders and a resilient network of congregations[3]. He passed away in Fuzhou on January 16, 1893, after falling off a ladder, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and cross-cultural ministry[7].
Significance in Chinese Christianity
[edit]Wong Kiu-Taik is remembered as a pivotal figure in the growth of Christianity in South China. His dedication as a pastor, preacher, and medical practitioner exemplified the integration of faith with social service, inspiring both local converts and international missionaries[8].
References
[edit]- ^ a b Church Missionary Society (1908). "Early Days of the Fuh-Kien Mission". Church Missionary Society Gazette: 152 – via Church Missionary Society Periodicals.
- ^ Christian Missionary Society. "Wong Hung-Huong. — Of Ku-cheng, Fuh-Kien". Christian Missionary Society Register: 491 – via Christian Missionary Society Periodicals.
- ^ a b c d Church Missionary Society (1876). "Gospel at Fuh-Chow". Church Missionary Society Gazette: 130, 131 – via Church Missionary Society Periodicals.
- ^ a b c Church Missionary Society (1871). "A letter from the Bishop of Victoria". Church Missionary Society Record: 270, 271 – via Church Missionary Society Periodicals.
- ^ Church Missionary Society (1894). "Wong Kiu Taik- Of Fu-chow, South China". Church Missionary Society Register: 317 – via Church Missionary Society Periodicals.
- ^ Church Missionary Society (1883). "The Annual Conference of clergy, teachers, and lay delegates of the Native Church in the Province of Fuh-Kien, China, was held at Fuh-Chow from Dec. 9 to 17". Church Missionary Society Gleaner: 48 – via Church Missionary Society Periodicals.
- ^ Church Missionary Society (1893). "Death of the Rev. Wong Kiu Taik". Church Missionary Society Intelligencer – via Church Missionary Society Periodicals.
- ^ Church Missionary Society (1875). "Report on Ningpo". Church Missionary Society Record: 142 – via Church Missionary Society Periodicals.