History

Encouraged by missionary parents in the Taipei area and led by the Lord’s calling, Bethany was started by Beverly Zimmerman in 1961. The school was named "Bethany" because Ms. Zimmerman hoped that the school would be positively received as was Jesus’ ministry at Bethany. That first year began with six students, two teachers, and almost no resources. But by the end of the year, Bethany had grown to over 50 students. Bethany Christian School in Taipei then joined the Morrison system in 1967.

Bethany started just off Chung San North Road between Nan King East Road and Chang An East Road. The enrollment of students grew over the years so that by the mid-1970s it reached a high of 260. The location of the school changed many times until it finally moved into its own building in 1987. Much had change at Bethany that followed the decision to add a 9th grade in 1996. Over the years many walls came down as rooms moved, changing the interior look of the school.

But Morrison Taipei is not static. The road that God calls the school to follow continues onward. Plans for additional education space and a grassy sports field were realized with the closing of the Bethany campus in December 2019 followed immediately in January 2020 with the opening of a brand new, state-of-the-art campus in Linkou District, New Taipei City (main entrance pictured below). Plans to renovate the soccer field and add additional space for track-related activities are part of the 2025 annual fund.

As of the time of that move, Morrison Taipei had facilities for a full K-12 program. And in May 2021, MAT graduated its first high school seniors.

The word "Bethany" and the acronym "MAB" are still used fondly to refer to the previous campus where many students spent their formative years. Once the move to Linkou was made, both gave way to "Morrison Academy Taipei" and "MAT".

We continue to trust God for that, knowing that His timing is perfect and His providence complete. And as we wait upon the Lord, we will continue in obedience to rely on His strength to ensure that the school remains the warm, loving, caring, and friendly place where children learn.

Updated: March 2025