2026-10-13
The Legacy of Sister Mary Paul Watts at the 'Foresting Chiayi' Exhibition
Discover Chiayi’s history and culture from different perspectives! The Chiayi Municipal Museum is hosting “Foresting Chiayi”, a collaborative exhibition. Among its highlights are the development of Catholicism in Chiayi and the founding journey of St. Martin De Porres Hospital by Sister Mary Paul Watts, offering visitors a glimpse into a story of medical care rooted in faith and guided by love.
The development of Catholicism in Chiayi is closely intertwined with healthcare, education, and social welfare. In 1959, American-born Sister Mary Paul Watts, founder of St. Martin De Porres Hospital, joined the Sisters of Our Lady of China and began providing medical care to residents of mountainous areas where healthcare resources were scarce. She later established Chi-Ming Clinic in Chiayi City and actively sought donations and medical resources to expand healthcare services. In 1966, St. Martin De Porres Hospital was officially completed and opened, ushering in a new chapter in healthcare for the Chiayi region.
The year 2026 marks the 60th anniversary of St. Martin De Porres Hospital. On September 29, Sister Mary Paul Watts passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love and service. She now rests in the Chiayi she dearly loved, and her passing has inspired deep sorrow, remembrance, and gratitude. Looking back on Sister Watts’s journey in founding the hospital, we see not only a chapter in the history of healthcare development but also a shared memory cherished by the people of Chiayi. Through the “Foresting Chiayi” exhibition, visitors can learn more about how Catholicism took root in Chiayi and contributed through service and dedication, while experiencing the enduring love of Sister Watts - a love that transcended national borders and continues to inspire generations.
Foresting Chiayi Collaborative Exhibition
Dates: October 3, 2026 – February 28, 2027
Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. daily (closed on Mondays)
Venue: First-floor lobby, Chiayi Municipal Museum