High on this hillside stands St. John’s College. Our story begins in 1912. The Anglican Church founded St. John’s College. It became the first residential hall at the University of Hong Kong.
St. John’s College has changed over time. Its mission remains the same. It aims to nurture virtuous leaders. These leaders should serve wider society.
Bishop R. O. Hall was an early supporter. In 1965, he wrote about the college’s concern. He wanted graduates to have a deep and humane concern for mankind.
Let’s jump back to the 1910s. St. John’s Hall began as an Anglican mission hostel. It was attached to the University of Hong Kong.
Now we move to the 1940s. This was St. John’s Hall after the war. The college rebuilt itself.
Then we arrive in the 1950s. These were the days of St. John’s College residents. Life was vibrant here.
In 1954, something significant happened. The foundation stone for the Marden Wing was laid. Construction finished the next year. The Marden Wing expanded the college.
1959 saw a historic visit. The Archbishop of Canterbury came to St. John’s College. It was a proud moment.
The 1960s brought sporting glory. St. John’s College captured the Malayan Cup. Victory filled the halls.
As we stroll through the 2000s we witness modern college life. The traditions of St. John’s College continued. Students engaged in various activities.
In 2020, St. John’s College housed many residents. The college focused on character development. It cared about students’ intellectual faculties.
St. John’s College embodies a proud heritage. It dates back to St. John’s University in Shanghai. American Anglican missionaries founded that university in 1879. It became a prestigious institution in China. People saw it as China’s Harvard or Yale.
St. John’s University pioneered higher learning. It facilitated cultural exchange. It introduced the American liberal arts model. The university offered programs in psychology and journalism. It started business programs and graduate degrees. Modern sports also became part of learning.
The curriculum had a Christian core. It also promoted free learning. Students chose courses based on interest. They studied a broad range of subjects. English served as the teaching language. This helped students communicate globally. The university was registered in the US. This made its degrees recognized abroad. Yet, it also taught respect for China’s heritage.
Political changes forced the university to close in 1952. Graduates formed alumni networks. They funded institutions to keep the traditions alive. St. John’s College is one of these establishments.
St. John’s College is not religiously affiliated now. It continues the liberal arts tradition. It serves as a forum for communication. People from different backgrounds connect here. The college provides residence to graduate students. It hosts academic events. St. John’s College enriches understanding and promotes global cooperation.
So as we stand here let’s appreciate the history. St. John’s College has a legacy of education. It has a commitment to service. It continues to shape future leaders.