On 15 October 1989, the new Peace Stone, "Four Seas, Brothers, World Peace", was unveiled at the College as a symbol of hope for peace and a testament to the friendship between Australia and Japan.
This Peace Stone is one of only five in the world outside of Japan and was established to help repair relations between the two nations after World War II by the Japanese Foundation, Shuyodan Hoseikai. After the ceremony on 15 October 1989, tea was served to express gratitude by Mrs Rosaleen McVittie (Urasenke master and major contributor to the establishment of the Peace Stone) and her students.
The establishment of the Peace Stone is largely attributed to the friendship between Fr Paul Glynn SM, an Australian Marist priest dedicated to reconciliation with Japan for twenty years, along with the families of John McVittie, one of the first Australian scholars invited to Japan after World War II, and one of his pupil’s Ryutaro Shidehara.
Exactly 35 years later, on 9 October 2024, a special two-day event took place at the College to commemorate the anniversary of the Peace Stone’s unveiling, with the Shuyodan Hoseikai Foundation visiting as part of the celebrations.
The first day featured a special ceremony held beneath the Freehill Tower, offering a stunning view of the Peace Stone and the lush greenery surrounding it to this day.
Representatives from the Shuyodan Hoseikai Foundation were present at the College and took part in the celebrations. Opening remarks were given by the Vice-Chair of Shuyodan Hoseikai Terri Fujii, followed by a welcome from the Advisor to the Board and former Chairman, Toru Hayama.
Sadly, Fr Paul Glynn SM, who played a key role in the original ceremony, was unable to attend. However, we were fortunate to hear words and a prayer from Fr Paul Mahony SM on his behalf. I then spoke about the significance of the Peace Stone for our students, highlighting it as a symbol of friendship and a space for reflection on the need for peace in one’s heart and mind, as well as within their communities — especially at a time when there is so much devastation in the world.
Following this special celebration, the Urasenke tea society provided tea and refreshments to the guests under the guidance of Mr Julian McVittie, son of Mrs McVittie who was unable to attend. Afterwards, everyone gathered around the Peace Stone for group photos.
On the second day of proceeding, three Japanese Hoseikai guests joined several members of St John’s College in the Vaughan room for uplifting discussions focused on peace and harmony. St John’s staff and students participated in thoughtful debates and reflections, appreciating the opportunity to forge new friendships.
This meeting was video linked to over 50 Japanese participants from all over Japan. Participants included students and members of the Shuyodan Hoseikai in Tokyo as well as colleagues and students of the guest speakers Fr Robert Kisara, Professor Susumu Shimazono and Professor Hiroya Yamamoto.
I was incredibly proud of all the students and staff who dedicated their time to commemorate this significant occasion.
Lastly, the Peace Stone Essay Prize, valued at $2,000, was established in 1995 through an endowment from the Shuyodan Hoseikai. This prize is awarded annually to the winner of an essay competition, which is open to all students at the College.
Dr Mark Schembri Rector
To watch the video of the Peace Stone Ceremony, please click here.
