St. John’s Cathedral was completed in 1849 and has a history of nearly 200 years. The light yellow British-style building appears serene and solemn in the busy Central area. It is now the main church of the Hong Kong and Macau Diocese of the Anglican Church and holds an important position locally.
Appearance of the church.
Walking along Garden Road towards Victoria Peak, you can soon see St. John’s Cathedral hidden among green trees. This is a building that combines early 13th-century English and magnificent Gothic architectural styles, featuring a large number of colonnades and cross decorations. The central part is the nave, and on both sides are the side aisles. The whole church is white, while the stone tower is beige with four small spires. There is also the coat of arms of Queen Victoria painted in front. Every 15 minutes, you can hear the deep and sonorous sound of the big clock in the bell tower.
Interior of the church.
You can enter the church from the west gate of the cathedral. The interior decoration is gorgeous and elegant. At the entrance is the baptismal font. On the ground is a trinity mosaic inlay. The floor is also decorated with various patterns. Upon closer inspection, there is a goshawk painted under the cross. This is the symbol of St. John, indicating the identity of the church. Each window of the church is decorated with beautiful stained glass. The pictures on it are Bible characters and stories. The outdoor light shines through the glazed glass, creating a serene atmosphere.Monument and Memorial
Outside the main entrance, there stands a monument to honor the martyrs from the world wars, with tombstones in close proximity. Additionally, on the north wall of the church, a monument stone commemorates Captain William, who perished in Guangzhou in 1857. Following a spiritual and historical experience, one can find solace and relaxation in the church’s small garden, surrounded by nature.
Opening Hours
The church is open year-round with the following schedule:
– Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Friday, and Sunday: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
– Wednesday: 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM
– Saturday: 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Service Facilities
The church offers barrier-free services, including a barrier-free parking lot and entrance.
Must-Know Tips
1. Please be mindful of worship times and plan your visit accordingly, as entry is not permitted during these periods.
2. Upon entering, kindly remove your hat and refrain from using flash when taking photographs.
3. If you happen to catch a Bible singing concert, it is highly recommended to spend time enjoying this unique experience.
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