“LEARN ENGLISH IN AN INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY”:

A Journey of Connection and Discovery from 26 May to 23 June 2024

@ Good Shepherd Convent Restful Waters, Singapore.

Sr Lucy Chia & Melina, the organisers & the participants from Korea, Myanmar, Taiwan & Vietnam

A Journey of Language and Spirit:

My Four Weeks of Transformation in Singapore.             

by  Sukshin Augustine Kim,

Good Shepherd Mission Partner, Korea

Introduction: Embarking on the four-week “Learn English in an International Community” program, I discovered it was more than just a language class; it was a journey of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and cultural exchange.

Confidence in English: Initially, my English speaking and listening skills were a challenge, particularly with British English. However, the encouragement from our teachers, coupled with the mantra ‘English is easy, isn’t it?’ led to a miraculous boost in confidence by the course’s end.

GS Identity and Spirituality: Despite language barriers, the essence of GS identity and spirituality was made clear through the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Questions like ‘Who am I?’ and ‘Whose am I?’ struck a chord, leading to a deeper understanding of my role and the history of GS mission partners.

Multicultural Sharing and Solidarity:

The program also offered a rich tapestry of cultural                    experiences, from the diverse cuisines of Myanmar, Taiwan, Vietnam, Korea, and Singapore to the shared realities and solidarity within the GS community.

Conclusion: “The four weeks spent in Singapore were not just an educational period but a blessed timeof growth and community. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to my fellow mission partners.

Closing Gratitude: I extend my deepest thanks to all who made this journey possible and so meaningful.

Learning English in an International Community –

    A Journey of Growth 

by Sr Pauline Tran, Vietnam

Upon receiving the news of my upcoming trip to Singapore for this program, I initially felt indifferent due to the overwhelming demands of my community work and responsibilities. I thought to myself, “I’ll just squeeze in some preparation time during the last weekend before leaving Vietnam,” but even that proved to be impossible.

Arriving in Singapore, I was warmly welcomed by Sr. Lucy and Melina. I decided to put aside all my community concerns and embrace this opportunity for relaxation. The days unfolded with interactions, sharing, and learning, transforming my perception and English proficiency.

Living, learning, laughing, and playing together in a multicultural, diverse, and multi-talented environment served as an invaluable preparation for integrating with different countries into one region and international communities as part of Good Shepherd’s restructure.  Our class consisted of 10 participants from four countries: Vietnam, Myanmar, South Korea, and Taiwan, four partners in mission and six sisters. As I reminisce about the program, the memories come alive – moments of laughter, tears of empathy, anxiety, and hope.

This course instilled in me the biblical principle of “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31).  “I emerged victorious from this noble battle, having run the full race and kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8). I borrow these words from Scripture to express my emotions and experiences.

I sincerely hope that this course continues to flourish and reach a wider audience.

Participants & Few Teachers

A Journey of Connection and Discovery

Back L to R: Pauline, Annie, Veronica, Yvonne, Angela, Mei Ling. Front L to R: Emily, Hyoju, Emilia and Augustine

The “Learn English in an International Community” programme concluded with participants, teachers and friends coming together to celebrate and give thanks for an enriching month of connection and discovery among Good Shepherd mission partners in the region.

Participants from Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam and Myanmar delivered 10 outstanding presentations, highlighting their hard work and dedication to the Good Shepherd Mission.  This was their moment to shine, and they did not disappoint.

Participants received two certificates, one for the English programme and another for the 2-day Lead Like Jesus Leadership training

The audience was captivated by projects ranging from programmes for people living with HIV to formation programmes for Good Shepherd Mission Partners.  They learned of the cultural and heritage losses faced by the Indigenous people in Taiwan and were moved to tears by the heartbreaking stories of suffering and violence in Myanmar

.

Busy in the kitchen

Despite their busy schedule and mounting anxiety, the participants spared no effort to ensure that the homecooked meal would be a showcase of their culinary heritage.  The lunchtime spread was a delightful fusion of flavours: Myanmar Mohinga (noodles), Singapore Rojak and Kueh Pie Ti, Taiwan Superior Chicken Soup, Vietnam Summer Rolls, Korean Salad and much more.

As the programme concluded, the room buzzed with gratitude.  The days of learning, laughter, and shared meals had left an indelible mark for the participants, 13 teachers/trainers and the organising team of Restful Waters.  The “Learn English in an International Community” was not just about  language – it was about building a global Good Shepherd family.

Visit to the Good Shepherd Sisters’ Community at Good Shepherd Place

Voices of the Participants

Emily and Annie with Presentation Skills Trainer, Ms Alison Lim-Ang

“I am immensely grateful for this training programme.  It not only enhanced my English skills but also allowed me to forge meaningful friendships.  Moreover, my confidence in presentations and writing small grant proposals has soared.”  Sr Nant Annie Kyin Hpone, Myanmar

“I am grateful to you. ‘Love never says it is enough.’  I feel your Love embraces the whole world.” Sr Emily Man, Myanmar

Class Discussion – Yvonne with Sr Hyoju

“The various teachers and classes were a great inspiration to me, and it was wonderful to experience the dedication of the Good Shepherd mission partners up close. As a member of the International Congregation of Sisters, it was very valuable to meet and live with nuns and mission partners of various nationalities for a month. Learning with professional teachers who had diverse experiences helped me understand the content of the classes more deeply. I had a lot of fear about speaking English, but after one month of training, I gained much confidence. I believe this confidence will enable me to develop other programs successfully.”  Sr Hyoju Park, Korea

Mei Ling on Presentations Day

“The Learn English in an International Community programme exceeded my expectations. Due to my insufficient English skills, I was worried that I would struggle with listening, speaking, reading, and writing. However, I found myself able to absorb much knowledge, which gave me a new perspective on my learning abilities.

I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to study English in Singapore. Besides learning the language, I also gained insights into the situations and service plans of different countries. This experience made me realize the importance of advancing our mission and my role and responsibilities within Good Shepherd. I feel empowered to return to Taiwan and continue my work with Indigenous families in the Good Shepherd community, helping those in need.” Tseng Mei Ling, Taiwan

Group learning on the Coping Stances

“Mother Foundress said, ‘Do well all that you do,’ and I have done my job as a student in Singapore, gaining many experiences. 

My teacher told me, ‘English is beautiful and very easy,’ but learning another language is not easy for me. During the first week, I felt shy when I spoke English because I thought people did not understand my pronunciation. However, Sr. Lucy and Melina could understand, and they encouraged me, and made me feel confident to speak. My group members also supported one another. 

I had a touching experience through Sr. Lucy’s sharing about ‘Iceberg and Coping Stances.’ This has the potential to transform my life, and I believe that God accompanies and guides me during this time.”  Sr Veronica Tran, Vietnam

Angela and Emily

“I have grown in confidence to speak English and to do something.  This programme provides a good opportunity to gain experience – speaking English, on multi-cultures and the Good Shepherd values.”  Emilia Yoo, Korea

 “The training allowed me to know multi-culture, multi-food, social context of different countries, and what is Singlish and standard English.

Most importantly we were encouraged to speak English without fear, and the teachers made learning relevant, fun, and engaging.   

I feel a sense of belonging.  The time spent in Singapore had been fruitful.  The learnings are useful for my roles as director and member of formation team.  I am confident that I can collaborate with my team to transform these knowledge and skills in Taiwan.”  Yvonne Chen, Taiwan

Vietnamese Lunch

Trip to the Wholesale Market

We wish to thank and acknowledge our teachers and trainers, many of whom had journeyed with us since 2015: Ms Agnes Yeo, Ms Alison Lim-Ang, Ms Andrea Fang, Ms Cecilia Lim, Ms Geraldine Robert, Ms Hee Piang Chin, Ms Jane Marie Ng, Ms Joyous Choy, Ms June Chua, Sr Lucy Chia, Ms Melina Ong, Ms Morene Sim, Ms Susanna Chan, Ms Wu Siew Mei.  Also, Ms Kuang Ser Yee and Ms Joan D’Cotta who were unable to join us for this year’s programme.

Submitted by: Melina Ong

Good Shepherd Convent Restful Waters

Singapore