St John’s College has been featured in the commemorative publication The Commonwealth at 75, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth of Nations.

This 572-page book, created by St James’s House in collaboration with The History of Parliament Trust, delves into the origins and impact of the Commonwealth and highlights contributions from various influential individuals and organisations.

The launch event, held on October 9 at the historic Cloisters of Westminster Abbey in London, welcomed over 500 guests, including St John’s Principal Andrew Ponsford and dignitaries from across the Commonwealth. Speeches were given by Canon Anthony Ball of Westminster Abbey, Lord Marland of Odstock, and Ransford Smith CD, former Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, with a performance by The Commonwealth Resounds enhancing the occasion.

Richard Freed, founder of St James’s House, commented on the publication’s importance, saying, “The 75th anniversary offers the perfect opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s past, present, and future.”

In recognition of this milestone, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Archbishop Makarios received a copy of the book during the Patriarch’s visit to Australia, commemorating 100 years of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese.

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