The Opening Mass and Kick-off Ceremony to mark the 170th Anniversary of the School originally planned for 6 September was rescheduled to 10 September 2024 due to the unexpected visit of Super Typhoon YAGI. The theme for this special occasion, “Roots and Wings, Now and Beyond”, beautifully encapsulates the rich Christian and Chinese heritage of the School and the Language and IT proficiency of Paulinians which have allowed them to scale new heights.
The morning commenced with all teachers and students gathering in the School Playground for the Flag Raising Ceremony. This was followed by the Opening Mass which was held in Christ the King Chapel with Rev. Fr. Joseph Everson as the Main Celebrant, and Rev. Fr. Joseph Yim, Rev. Fr. John Kwan, Rev. Fr. Francis Zhao, Rev. Fr. Francisco De Las Heras, and Rev. Deacon Nestor Kwan, as the concelebrants. Students, teachers, managers, parents, alumni and guests united in a spirit of gratitude, seeking God’s blessings for the School and all Paulinians. The presentation of the Papal Blessing Parchment from Pope Francis to the School brought the solemn and meaningful service to another highlight.
After a short break, all parties assembled in the School Hall for a vibrant and festive Kick-off Ceremony. The programme opened with a stunning traditional Chinese Dragon Dance performance with the joint effort of the SPCS and SPN Dragon Dance Teams. The exhilarating display of artistry and vitality filled the audience with amazement and awe. This was followed by a delightful eye-dotting ritual of the 8 robust Lions by our distinguished guests: Rev. Fr. Everson, Rev. Sr. Lily Antonia Fung, representative of our School Management Committee; Rev. Sr. Sister Margaret Wong, Principal and Supervisor of St. Paul’s Convent School (Secondary Section); Rev. Sr. Susan Koo, Principal of St. Paul’s Day Nursery; Ms. Anna Cheung, Chairlady of the 170th Anniversary Celebration Organizing Committee; Ms. Sharon Wong, Chairlady of the Alumni Association; Ms. Jennifer Lam, Chairlady of the PTA; and Mrs. A Fong, representative of the School Advisory Board. As if by magic, each Lion representing the school motto “Omnia Omnibus” and the 7Cs of Paulinian Education: Charity, Conscience, Confidence, Courage, Creativity, Competence, and Commitment leapt into life with the rhythmic drums and the clanging gongs. The School Hall was filled with laughter and merriment as the enchanting Lions of the SPCS and SPN Lion Dance Teams frolicked and paraded among the guests, blinking their lustrous eyes and wagging their furry tails, waiting to be patted and posing for photos.
The day culminated with a sumptuous buffet lunch at the Regal Hong Kong Hotel for our special guests. For others, the fun continued. Alumni and students queued up for a ride on the specially designed iconic 170th Anniversary Tram at the foot of the Olympic Bridge, while another group of parents and students boarded the 170th Anniversary open-air bus to share their excitement and elation with pedestrians and passers-by on the busy streets of Causeway Bay. Those who preferred to stay on the campus spent the afternoon capturing cherished memories of the festive atmosphere, taking photos at their favourite spots in the Garden and Playground under the colourful banners and in front of specially designed 170th Anniversary backdrops and decorations. The Souvenir Booth was also busy with Paulinians who made sure that they purchased every memorabilia they desired for this special occasion before they were sold out.
For those of you who were here to share our joy, thank you for being an integral part of this unforgettable event. We look forward to seeing you again on this extraordinary journey – celebrating our rich past while embracing a radiant future!
