Maryknoll Secondary School

“Maryknoll Secondary School a beacon of education” This isn’t just any school. It’s a testament to the Maryknollers’ dedication. Their involvement in education in China dates back to the 1920s. In Hong Kong the Sisters established Maryknoll Convent School in 1925. They also opened Holy Spirit School in 1927. These schools started as kindergartens but grew rapidly. Maryknoll Convent School was run by the Maryknoll Sisters until 2005. Holy Spirit School now Marymount School transferred leadership to the Columban Sisters in 1978. The Maryknoll Sisters’ influence remains strong. Both schools thrive with active alumni worldwide. The Sisters also operated parish schools. They taught religion English healthcare and community organizing. Before World War II Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers focused on administration in Hong Kong. After the war they aided refugees including their children. This led to the founding of several schools. These include Maryknoll Secondary School. These schools provided academic or vocational training. Some Fathers and Brothers even taught at Hong Kong universities since the 1970s. The Fathers established seminaries in mainland China to train Chinese priests. The Sisters also had significant educational endeavors in mainland China. Maryknoll Academy opened in 1931. It started as a kindergarten but expanded to a K-12 school. The Academy was affiliated with the Catholic University in Washington DC. It closed in 1947 after the Soviet takeover. The Sisters also operated schools in Fushun City. They established a native novitiate in 1931. Other novitiates followed. After the Communist Revolution many joined the Maryknoll Sisters in Hong Kong and Macau. They continued their training and pastoral work. In 1979 foreigners were allowed to teach secular subjects in Chinese universities. Maryknollers returned to mainland China teaching. Maryknoll scholars studied the Catholic Church in China. The Holy Spirit Study Center and Maryknoll’s Mission Research and Planning Department played key roles. Maryknoll Secondary School stands as a powerful symbol of this legacy. It continues the Maryknollers’ commitment to education and service. This school embodies the spirit of its founders and the dedication of generations of educators. It’s more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to faith and education. A place where generations of students have learned and grown. It’s a school filled with rich history and an inspiring future. A place worthy of our time and reflection.