Winfield Reformed Church

Established in 1880, Winfield Reformed Church has a rich history. This church stands as a testament to the evolving cultural landscape of Woodside, Queens. Winfield Reformed Church wasn’t always the Taiwanese spiritual center it is today. It started as a Dutch-speaking congregation, serving a primarily white community. The shift began in the 1960s with a wave of Taiwanese immigrants. By 1969, Winfield Reformed Church became the first predominantly Taiwanese congregation in North America. Services were held in both English and Taiwanese, reflecting the changing demographics. Winfield Reformed Church was more than a place of worship. It became a hub for Taiwanese independence activism. Pastors and congregants rallied for their cause. In 1979, when China replaced Taiwan’s seat in the United Nations, NBC News came to Winfield Reformed Church. They wanted to capture the reactions of New York’s Taiwanese community. The church’s history is intertwined with influential figures like Reverend Andrew Kuo. He led the church in the 1960s while also working for the American Bible Society. Dr. Wu-Tong Hwang, a Taiwanese independence activist and pastor, served as senior pastor from 1973 to 1978. He sought refuge in the United States after being exiled by the Kuomintang government. Dr. Martin Wang, a former professor at Taiwan Theological Seminary and a translator of the Chinese Bible, also ministered at Winfield Reformed Church in the 1980s. Even renowned Taiwanese musician Michael Cheng has a connection to Winfield Reformed Church. He directed the church choir before returning to Taiwan. Winfield Reformed Church is more than just bricks and mortar. It embodies the resilience and spirit of a community finding its voice, far from home.