TAIWAN — She was known as “Taiwan’s English teacher”, a friend of presidents, and pioneered the use of media for teaching and for sharing the Good News in her adopted country.

Her missionary career lasted into her late nineties, and she kept sharing the gospel and playing her trumpet even from her wheelchair. Good TV brings us her fascinating story.

Doris Brougham, an American missionary who served in Taiwan for over 70 years, due to multiple organ failure, passed away on Aug 6th at Mackay Memorial Hospital in Tamsui. Her passing coincided with her 98th birthday. God called His beloved daughter home on this special day.

Born in Seattle in 1926, Doris resolved to share the gospel in China at the young age of 12. However, due to the Chinese Civil War, she eventually came to Taiwan in 1951. She chose to serve the indigenous people in Hualien, a remote area in desperate need of missionaries. The local tribes embraced her as one of their own, giving her the indigenous name “Rebecca.”

Then, two months later, my mother suddenly caught the flu. She fell ill on Friday and passed away on Sunday. It happened so quickly, in just two days. Yes, she was only 56 years old and in good health. I really cried at that time. I said, “Jesus, both of them are gone. Wouldn’t You leave one for me to see again?” I was planning to go back in 6 years, and now both my mother and father are gone. How could this happen? But God said, ”Don’t worry, I will always protect you.” So when other people’s mothers and fathers pass away, I can truly understand.

In Taiwan, Doris was a pioneer in using media for evangelism. She founded ORTV in 1960 and launched Studio Classroom in 1962. Through radio programs and English education, she not only helped Taiwan integrate with the international community but also became known as ”Taiwan’s English Teacher.” In 1963, she also co-founded the Heavenly Melody Choir, which toured across Taiwan and around the world, sharing God’s love through music.

For decades, Doris actively participated in various ministries, collaborating with churches and organizations to spread the gospel. People often ask me, “After so many years in Taiwan, what keeps you going?” It’s because I see that many here still haven’t come to know the Lord. Our youth are often exposed to programs that lead their thoughts and actions astray. But through GOOD TV, they can come to know the truth.

On March 31st of this year, a musical titled “The Journey of Love” was performed during an Easter service in Hsinchu, sharing Doris Brougham’s life story. Even at 98, her trumpet playing echoed with the same vigor as it did 70 years ago, inviting everyone to accept the love of Jesus.

Doris Brougham Playing Trumpet at Hsinchu Easter Service

When we get to heaven, everyone here today will be there. But first, you need to get your passport to heaven ready. Don’t wait until you’re at the airport and realize your passport isn’t prepared. Get your heavenly passport ready now. When you arrive at the airport, Jesus will say, “Yes, you can enter.” So remember, if you haven’t done so, you can register today.

Have you received your passport to heaven? This was Doris’ sincere invitation to everyone. She often said, ”Home is where the heart is.” “And my heart is here. Taiwan is my home.” Having dedicated over 70 years to Taiwan, Doris Brougham is the longest-serving missionary in Taiwan’s history. We thank her for dedicating her life to this land, and for loving every Taiwanese person with the love of God. Doris Brougham looked forward to reuniting with us all in heaven.

This is her prayer for Taiwan: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for loving Taiwan. Please help us to love one another, because we need Your salvation and Your mercy. Help us learn to forgive, to be tolerant, and to love, because You are the way, the truth, and the life.

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