St John’s College commenced the year with the annual Community Mass on Burger Field, framed by the iconic northern facade of the school. The Right Revd Dr Steve Moreo, Bishop of Johannesburg, presided as Celebrant, continuing a much-loved tradition that sets the tone for the academic year. This year’s Mass carried a bittersweet note, as it marked the final Community Mass for both Bishop Steve and Stuart West ahead of their retirements later this year.
The Mass was attended by students from the Pre-Prep to Sixth Form, as well as the St John’s College Academy, staff, and parents.
The Council of St John’s and School Prefects were commissioned for their year of duty, and students and staff received blessings. The music and singing on Burger Field were magnificent, with Mr Cameron Upchurch on piano and Mr Sidumo Nyamazele leading the St John’s choir and community in song. Chapel Choir membership has burgeoned this year, and the choir should be commended for their leadership of the worship at this Mass, despite not having had a full rehearsal ahead of the event. The choir members especially enjoyed Bishop Steve spontaneously leaving the altar to join them for some of the community favourites, such as Modimo. The support of a quartet of brass players was also appreciated.
"Bishop Steve, as you prepare to retire and step into a new chapter of your journey, we offer our deepest gratitude for your steadfast leadership, spiritual guidance, and unwavering support of St John’s College. Through your presence and prayers, you have nurtured a community where faith and learning intertwine, inspiring generations to pursue excellence in service to God and humanity. Your legacy of wisdom, compassion, and commitment to Christian education will continue to shape our College for years to come," said Mr West in his tribute to our Bishop.
During his Homily, Bishop Steve shared his reflections on the role of reconciliation and the mission of Anglican Diocesan schools:
"The Revd Peter Gunning, who was ministering in our Diocese in the early 1980s, once shared an insightful observation that has stayed with me. He noted that research suggests God assigns each preacher seven core themes to explore throughout their ministry. Over the past four decades, I have found this to be true in my own experience.
Reconciliation has been a recurring theme in my homilies, speeches, and practical ministry as the Bishop of the Diocese. St John's College must recognise its values, origin, and purpose stem from God, who inspired its founders. St John's is a gift from God, not only for its immediate community but also for the surrounding area and the world. Each diocesan school serves as a vital space for seeking reconciliation. Our identity, mission, and goal are to fulfil this purpose. The purpose of St John's and all other Diocesan schools is to join God in God's mission for God's world, to identify God's people, and to recognise that God always invites us to participate in uncomfortable situations. Our schools are ideal places to promote reconciliation among students, staff, and the broader community. They can also build bridges between people from diverse backgrounds."
Bishop Steve urged the community to prioritise listening, emphasising the importance of remaining true to core values while navigating the complexities of inclusivity. He also expressed gratitude for the leadership of Mr West and the entire school community, offering a final reminder from Deuteronomy 1:6: “You have stayed long enough at this mountain.” This verse, he explained, encourages leaders to recognise when it is time to move forward, to embrace transition and progress, and to trust in God's guidance as they prepare for the next generation.