St. Joseph’s Institution (SJI) has opened a new heritage gallery, in commemoration of Singapore's bicentennial year and the Tercentenary1 of the Founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools – St. John Baptist de La Salle. Named Missio 1852, the gallery showcases 167 years of Josephian history and Lasallian heritage, tradition and community in Singapore. This project is supported by the National Heritage Board and the Singapore Bicentennial Office.

The highlights of Missio 1852 include:

1. Profiles of distinguished Josephians – Thousands of illustrious Josephians have graduated from the gates and halls of SJI since 1852. Amongst them include Former 7th President Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, DPM Teo Chee Hean, Mr Philip Yeo, Prof Leo Tan Wee Hin, Prof Jeremy Monteiro, Justice Chan Seng Onn, whose profiles are featured in Missio 1852.

2. The Brothers’ Logbook – The La Salle Brothers meticulously kept annual logbooks such as these, detailing notable events like inter-school competitions, important visitors to the school, spiritual bouquets and civics group meetings. It was the practice for the Brother Director to keep a diary/logbook to record key events throughout the school year, to help him when he prepares the annual report to be sent to Rome.

3. The Founder’s Banner – As part of the school’s emphasis on rituals and symbolism, this Founder’s banner was frequently used in events like the celebration of the apparition ofour Lady of Fatimah in the 1950s. Out of the traditional three banners used, only this one remains. These banners were originally stored away in a camphor wood chest in the Brothers’ Quarters.

4. The Grandfather Clock that has survived the Japanese Occupation – This clock once stood on the verandah of the Brothers' House and called all therein to prayers and class. During WWII, shrapnel damaged the clock and the marks have been preserved in its restoration. Holes on both sides indicated where shrapnel entered the clock, hit the back of the pendulum and exited on the opposite side.

Missio 1852 is open to SJI students and staff members during school hours during term time. Visit www.sji.edu.sg for details.