By virtue of its Foundation, the history of St John's School
is steeped in the idea of spiritual nurture and growth.
Traditionally Christian in outlook, the School welcomes
and encourages pupils of all faiths, as well as those who
have decided that affiliation to a particular faith or denomination
is not for them.
However, the expectation at St John's is that everyone will
give themselves, and those around them, the opportunity
to explore new ideas and horizons. To this end, Chapel attendance,
both during the week and on certain prescribed Sundays,
is a compulsory obligation for all pupils.
On Sundays, Houses take turns in attending Chapel for
the services of Sung Eucharist, Choral Evensong or Compline,
usually once a month. There is a guest preacher. Parents
and visitors are warmly welcomed and attend these services
in great number. Each House entertains parents and visitors
with refreshments after the service. Details of Sunday
Chapel
services are in the Calendar. Every Chapel service
is a compulsory obligation for those pupils designated
to
attend.
Chapel also plays an important part in the routine at
the beginning of the school day. On Monday, the Headmaster
leads his Assembly in the Chapel. On Tuesday, the Chaplain
attempts to incorporate the events of the world around
us into
the life
of the School, relating them through ideas, readings,
music
and prayer to the universal concerts that govern the
life
of the Christian. On Wednesday, a member of the Common
Room delivers a 'thought for the day' on an issue that
is of interest to them and in which they feel the School
might like to share. On Thursday, the Houses take it
in turns to present a particular facet of life or experience,
often with a moral or teaching point. On Saturday, the
Director of Music leads a congregational singing practice.
The Eucharist is celebrated in the Undercroft Chapel
each Wednesday, 5:30pm to 6pm, and on principal feast
days as
listed in the Calendar. Many students at St John's are
baptised and confirmed. Each year, the Chaplain offers
a course of
preparation for the sacraments of initiation to encourage
students to make an informed decision for themselves
about
their commitment to faith. The Bishop comes to administer
baptism and confirmation in the Summer Term.
Provision of Christians of denominations other than Anglican,
together with those of other faiths, is made in consultation
with the Chaplain. The Chapel is open every day for private
prayer and reflection.
The Undercroft Chapel (down the stairs at the back of
the Chapel) offers a quiet and peaceful space. It is
dedicated
to the glory of God and in memory of an Old Johnian,
Father Vivian Redlich, who was martyred on a beach in
Papua New
Guinea after the invasion of the island during the Second
World War when he refused to leave the people he had
gone
there to serve.
Chaplain
Notable OJs 
