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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170210
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170212
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170728T024630Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170816T002351Z
UID:275-1486684800-1486857599@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Compassion in Action
DESCRIPTION:On 10 and 11 Feb 2017\, a group of sisters\, staff and volunteers gathered in Good Shepherd Place to give their rapt attention to Sister Inigo Joachim as she unpacked the topic\, “compassion”\, which she described as “weak”. \nSister Inigo Joachim is from the Sisters of St Anne’s of Chennai. Currently when she is not serving as a counsellor in the infamous Tihar Jail\, Delhi\, she is busy sharing Biblical truth with religious congregations and laity all over India and in many other countries\, including Singapore. In 2008\, she was the only female religious to present at a Catholic Bishops Conference in India; and the list of outstanding engagements goes on. It is nearly unbelievable that her mentor\, a priest had admonished the young timid nun\, “Sister Inigo\, please go and tell your general to keep you in the showcase. You are not fit to be novice mistress. You are fit to be in the showcase.” By God’s grace\, mercy and compassion Sister Inigo was the Superior General of her Congregation from 1990 to 2002\, and became a quietly confident\, inspiring speaker whose teachings are deeply based on Scriptures. \nOver the two days\, Sister Inigo repeatedly reminded the audience that God is compassionate; “his love endures forever” as intoned 26 times in Psalm 136. She drew out two dimensions of compassion: sensitivity and generosity through parables that our Lord taught\, especially the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Compassion essentially means to suffer with the one in pain. The Samaritan’s heart was moved into action; he was sensitive. He was generous to the wounded man by dressing his wound\, taking him to an inn\, paying for his expenses and promising to pay the dues on his return. The audience were urged to move from merely verbalizing mercy to making mercy a concrete act; to move from the heart to the hands just like the Good Samaritan. A two-day seminar\, even espoused in Biblical truth will not make any difference to the world which is full of pain and injustice\, unless our hearts are transformed to be like God who is full of compassion. \nThere was never a dull moment during the seminar as petite Sister Inigo weaved humour into her lived-out experience of showing mercy and compassion to the inmates of Tihar Jail. Through her stories\, we learnt that the poor has the capacity to teach us many lessons\, and values like hope\, patience\, resilience\, gratitude and above all\, a deep faith in God and Biblical truth. \nIf you are reading this and feeling that you have missed out on something\, look out for the next time Good Shepherd Convent Restful Waters invites Sister Inigo to feed our spirituality\, tentatively in July 2017.
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/compassion-in-action-10-11-feb-2017/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170222
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170225
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170728T024048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170817T000136Z
UID:266-1487721600-1487980799@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Good Shepherd Mission Enrichment Journey
DESCRIPTION:GOOD SHEPHERD MISSION ENRICHMENT JOURNEY (GROUP 1) \nThe Good Shepherd Mission Enrichment Journey is a response to Province Direction Statement\, Sept 2016 -“Ensure sustainability\, visibility and presence of Good Shepherd Mission through systematic formation for Mission Partners in deepening our Good Shepherd Spirituality and Charism.” Sr Helena and Sr Maria were tasked to bring to Mission Partners from Singapore and Malaysia the Program which takes participants on a journey of discovery\, encounter and engagement in Good Shepherd Charism and Values.\n Program Logo: The merging colours portray the vibrancy of this journey which is an integrated process of DISCOVERY\, ENCOUNTER\,and ENGAGEMENT with our founders and Good Shepherd Mission today. Zeal is the heart of the Good Shepherd Mission Journey. \nOn 22 Feb 2017\, 13 Mission Partners from Singapore\, Ipoh\, Kuala Lumpur and Sabah gathered at Good Shepherd Place\, Singapore to embark on the inaugural 3D2N program. Nervous laughter broke out when Sr Helena welcomed the group to a 3-day holiday. Some had made plans to sneak off to check emails. Their bodies were in the room but their minds were still plugged in to their work. However\, by lunchtime on the first day\, the buzz around the room was audible\, laughter signaled the forging of friendships and partnerships in mission. \nWhat some participants had to say:- \nEden of Marymount Kindergarten\, Singapore \n“The Good Shepherd Mission Enrichment Journey was a good experience for the participants. Listening to the stories and insights during sharing after every reflection encouraged us that we are not alone in this mission and that we are blessed to be a part of something beautiful. The Sisters helped us to have a better picture of the mission and the different ministries. Knowing about the founders and the early lay partners helped us understand the history and keep our focus on the call of saving souls\, despite the challenges or obstacles along the way. As mission partners\, we are called to respond and contribute in any way we can. Each part played\, no matter how big or small\, is valuable. The emphasis on the core values are significant because they serve as a guide\, and awareness of these values makes us more conscious to act according to the Good Shepherd spirit\, which in time (hopefully) will be instilled in us. May what we see help us to feel\, and in turn move us to act and actually do something.” \nOdette of Good Shepherd Kindergarten\, Singapore \n“When I was called to participate in the enrichment programme\, I was very reluctant because I could not put my work aside but it turned out otherwise. It not only deepened my knowledge of our founders through their works and deeds\, the Good Shepherd spirituality and also forming bonds with my fellow friends. It was truly enriching and fulfilling for me.” \nDion of Women Shelter\, Kuala Lumpur \n“The Enrichment session really helps me to understand what I am committed to. In this mission\, it is more than just ‘completing the job’. This session makes me realize ‘why I choose to be in Good Shepherd’ instead of other NGO.” \nCheryl of Marymount Convent School\, Singapore \n“It was a truly eye opening and enriching retreat. It has given me a better understanding of the Good Shepherd Mission. I’m truly inspired by all the work that has been done an am eager to do my part as a lay partner.” \nThere are 4 more Good Shepherd Mission Enrichment Journey scheduled for 2017. Sign up and be blessed. \n  \n Front (L-R): Sr Maria\, Odette\, Mary Joy\, Beatrice\, Pauline; Back (L-R): Sr Helena\, Christina\, Jeanette\, Cheryl\, Martha\, Evelyn\, Mag\, Eden\, Dion\, Vailat
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/good-shepherd-mission-enrichment-journey/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170305
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170306
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170728T023857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170817T165739Z
UID:263-1488672000-1488758399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Footsteps To Inspire
DESCRIPTION:CLAIRE MCFARLANE: ONE WOMAN RUNNING ACROSS 184 COUNTRIES \nClaire is a picture of calmness\, which belies what she went through in Paris nearly 18 years ago. Read about how she overcame her worst nightmare to inspire others. \nhttp://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/running-to-help-sex-assault-victims \nhttp://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/woman-completes-16-km-run-at-east-coast-beach-to-raise-awareness-for-sexual-assault \nBe inspired to make a difference in your Mission. \nClaire and supporters running on the beach in East Coast\, Singapore
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/footsteps-to-inspire/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170306
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170307
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170814T223106Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170817T183809Z
UID:839-1488758400-1488844799@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:International Women's Day - Singapore
DESCRIPTION:GOOD SHEPHERD CENTRE\, SINGAPORE \nThe theme of IWD 2017 is “Be Bold for Change”. The event started with the women taking turns to light the candles symbolizing the sharing of lights and in solidarity to all women in the world. It was followed by silent prayer and listening to a song “Come As You Are.” \nThe history of IWD was briefly shared\, followed by a video of a woman named Pamela who is very courageous to overcome her challenges in life. Pamela’s dream is to be a singer but a year ago she had cancer when she was six months pregnant. She decided to keep the baby while receiving treatment. Unfortunately her baby only survived for one month. She joined the X Factor to fulfill her dream as a singer. She sang “Because of You” with passion. The residents were deeply touched and shared their impression of Pamela: brave\, courageous\, never give up\, strong woman\, she would like to reach her dream. \nFrom their impression of Pamela the residents answered this question\, “What do you see in yourself as a Woman?” The facilitator explained that it is important to have a change in our thoughts\, which hopefully will lead to a change in our world. Each one wrote one unique description of herself\, and posted it on the wall with an image of a woman – “Women of Courage.” Following are how they saw themselves. \n\nI am a supportive sister\nI am brave\nI am loving\nI am helpful\nI am caring\nI am a strong woman\nI am beautiful\nI am responsible\nI am creative\nI am independent\n\nThe residents gathered in circle\, held the candles and said aloud the names of women whom they are grateful for. Most remembered their mothers and daughters. \nThe celebration culminated with a song “One Woman”. The facilitator reiterated the value of unity in diversity; she mentioned the different nationality living in one house and how each one can be a support to another. As a symbol of unity each one gathered in the middle of the room and put their hands together. \n“Be Bold for Change” has to start from within before it can flow to the community where lives can be touched and healed.
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/international-womens-day-singapore/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170308
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170309
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170728T023329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170814T222326Z
UID:259-1488931200-1489017599@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:International Women’s Day 2017 - Sabah
DESCRIPTION:International Women’s Day 2017\n  Theme: Be Bold For Change \nWatch Pusat Belia Youth-Prep Alamesra\, Sabah’s Celebration of International Women’s Day on 08 Mar 2017 \nhttps://www.facebook.com/youthprepcentre/videos/1365860703457098/ \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/international-womens-day-2017/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/1308358615_InternationalWomensDay-portrait-e1502778174882.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170325
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170326
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170728T022524Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170817T183952Z
UID:257-1490400000-1490486399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Good Shepherd Centre Observes Earth Hour 2017
DESCRIPTION:Residents of Good Shepherd Centre hail from Bangladesh\, China\, India\, Indonesia\, Myanmar and Philippines. Most of them have not heard of Earth Hour before Sr Jossie and Michelle briefly told them just before dinner that we were observing it in solidarity with millions of people from 170 countries. \nAt 7.30pm staff turned off the air-conditioner in the office\, the photocopier and non-essential lights in the premises. All mobile phones were kept in the office. Residents gathered in the dining room\, chatting excitedly in anticipation of how Earth Hour was to be observed. At 8.30pm the dining room was plunged into darkness when the lights were switched off together with the fans. Two candles were lighted to provide rudimentary illumination. \nSince English was not fully understood by everyone\, Sr Jossie used simple terms to lead activities that helped the residents become aware of some irreversible damages due to man’s disregard for planet Earth. In silence\, each was guided to reflect on their homelands and how climate change had affected theirs and their families’ livelihood\, e.g. how rivers have dried up\, making farming difficult; how fishermen were coming back from their trips with smaller or no catch. During their group sharing\, many told of the challenges their families faced back home\, which they were previously unaware were due to the assault wreaked by man on nature. The mood turned sombre as each one said her name and in solidarity pledged to take steps towards saving Earth from more destruction. \nEach one pledged that while she was in Good Shepherd Centre\, she would conserve precious water by limiting showers to 5 minutes; wash crockery and utensils in basins instead of under running taps. They pledged to switch off lights and fans when they leave their rooms and common areas. In their conscious bid to recycle\, they pledged to separate waste products before disposing them responsibly in the proper containers provided instead of dumping everything into one waste bin. \nWhile observing Earth Hour is a good start\, it is vital that each one of us continue to intentionally do our part to preserve our planet for future generations. Everyone could resonate with the little ways to continue to save Earth\, such as switching off electrical items and removing plugs from the sockets; learn how to compost and harvest rainwater\, and use LED light bulbs. \nAs Mission Partners\, let us “embrace the process of a shift in consciousness which leads to a new understanding of God and inter-connectedness with one another and the environment”.
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/earth-hour-2017/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170410
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170411
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170814T194115Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170815T181309Z
UID:810-1491782400-1491868799@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Appointment of PKGS Staff as Protection Officers
DESCRIPTION:By Wihelmina Mowe \nPartnership with Malaysian Government  \nAfter many years of engaging the government on issues of trafficking\,  the Malaysian government has recognized the roles of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) in combating trafficking in persons\, by adopting the concept of electing NGO staff as Protection Officers for victims of trafficking.  \nOn 10 April 2017\, five staff from Pusat Kebajikan Good Shepherd (PKGS) received their appointment as Protection Officers in a presentation ceremony at Putrajaya\, the federal administrative capital of Malaysia.   The appointment certificates were presented by Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamid\, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia. \nWho are involved? \nA total of 12 Protection Officers from 6 NGOs were appointed to participate in this program\, 5 of who are from  PKGS. They are Dionetta David\, Mag Chin Yoke Yin and Teo Kar Im\, for Kuala Lumpur – Selangor; and Petra Poh Mei Ling\, and Maria Binti Masilang or Sabah state. \nHow does it work? \nAt present\, the main focus of the Protection Officers (PO) is to assist the government-run women shelters in case management.   In addition\, POs are required to accompany the women to court or hospital\, especially in the event that the government shelters are short-handed or in an emergency.  \nThis is a first for the Government of Malaysia and a major step in the government-NGO collaboration to combat human trafficking.  We are proud and excited to be part of this initiative as it takes us one step further into influencing the State to take on a more active approach in victim assistance and protection. \n \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/appointment-of-pkgs-staff-as-protection-officers/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/PO_Dion_1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170424
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170425
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T202521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170817T171522Z
UID:647-1492992000-1493078399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Feast of St Mary Euphrasia
DESCRIPTION:149th Anniversary  \n“Go to God with your troubles\, weariness and disappointments…you will come away consoled and strengthened for the path before you.” \nSt Mary Euphrasia
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/feast-of-st-mary-euphrasia/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/SME-young.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170424
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170425
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170814T235110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170817T164955Z
UID:862-1492992000-1493078399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Official Opening of Sunduan Pisompuruan\, Kiau Nuluh\, Sabah
DESCRIPTION:NO MOUNTAIN TOO HIGH FOR GOOD SHEPHERD SERVICES\, SABAH \nOn 05 Jun 2015\, a couple of Good Shepherd Sisters felt the ground beneath their feet shake as they sat\ndown for breakfast. While they were used to mild rumblings as heavy vehicles past the Convent in Likas\,\nSabah\, they were alarmed on that morning. One of them who had served in the Philippines where\nearthquakes were more common\, cried out “Earthquake!” and ran out of the building. They later learnt\nthat a 6.0-magnitude earthquake had strike Mount Kinnabalu\, which at 4\,092 metre\, is South East Asia’s\nhighest peak. \nAmong the 18 people who died in that tragic 30-second quake were 7 students\, 2 teachers and an\nexpedition guide from Singapore. The small nation set aside a National Day of Remembrance as she\nmourned the loss of its citizens\, most of them 12 years old. \nIn the village of Kiau Nuluh in Kota Belud\, the community mourned for local mountain guide\, Robert\nSappingi\, fondly known as Robbi\, who reportedly lost his life while rescuing a tourist. Most of the men in\nKiau Nuluh work as guides and porters contributing about 70% to household income\, so when the\nmountain was closed after the earthquake the community faced economic hardships. The women who\ncultivated pineapple were afraid to return to their plots in the face of daily tremors and landslides. \nIn August 2015\, in line with Good Shepherd Congregational Direction on Economic Justice\, Good Shepherd\nServices (GSS) gingerly embarked on an inaugural community-based socio-economic project with the\nwomen to produce pineapple chutney and pineapple jam. The recipes were contributed by volunteers\,\nwho also made the arduous and sometimes dangerous fortnightly trips with staff to Kiau Nuluh to\nsupervise the production. The project was aptly named\, “Everything Pineapple”. Besides providing\nemotional\, psychological and business strategy support\, GSS helped to market and sell the products in\nKota Kinnabalu\, mostly to parishioners of St Simon Church. \nFast forward to 24 April 2017. Staff and volunteers of GSS Sabah\, the leadership team from the Province\nof Singapore-Malaysia and other well-wishers gathered with the women of Koonduan Kiau Nuluh\nEnterprise (KKNE) for a Thanksgiving Service to mark the opening of their newly built pineapple product\nprocessing centre\, Sunduan Pisompuruan. The cost of building the 2-storey centre\, with a built-up area of\n2\,000 square feet was sponsored by Sabah Credit Corporation. KKNE grew from an initial membership of\n11 women to 49 at the time of opening and there are plans to incorporate another 11 from the waiting\nlist by July 2017. The product list has also grown to include pineapple juice and pineapple chutney with\nanchovies. As the women are empowered to develop KKNE\, their creativity and business acumen have\nblossomed. With the addition of new technology in the bottling and canning process\, shelf life is extended\nfrom one month to one year. There are talks about expanding to markets overseas\, so watch out for KKNE\nproducts on a supermarket shelf near you! \nThere was palpable rejoicing in Kiau Nuluh as we celebrated Foundress Day with prayers\, songs\, and\ndances\, topped off by the sharing of delicious food contributed by the villagers and volunteers. You’ve\nguessed it; pineapple featured prominently. \n \nThanksgiving Service/Official Opening of Sunduan Pisompuruan at Kiau Nuluh on 24 April 2017\nFrom left: Ms Chin Poh Choo\, Executive Director\, Good Shepherd Services; Rev Fr Nicholas Stephen\, Parish\nPriest\, St Peter Claver Church\, Ranau; Sr Joan Lopez\, Province Leader\, Singapore-Malaysia\, Good Shepherd\nSisters; Datuk Vincent Pung\, Chief Executive Officer\, Sabah Credit Corporation
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/official-opening-of-sunduan-pisompuruan-kiau-nuluh-sabah/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170601
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170602
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170815T000645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170815T001210Z
UID:867-1496275200-1496361599@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Marymount Centre Launches New Service in Singapore
DESCRIPTION:MARYMOUNT CENTRE LAUNCHES NEW SERVICE – PILOT SMALL GROUP CARE – IN SINGAPORE \nMarymount Centre (MC)\, the social service arm of Good Shepherd Sisters in Singapore\, has been quietly but stoically living out its vision of “Touching Lives\, Building Hope”\, fulfilling Good Shepherd Position on the Girl Child. \nIn 2016\, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) accepted MC’s proposal to fill a gap in service to the girl child through a Pilot Small Group Care (PSGC)\, which will provide mid-term care to girls aged 7 to 12 years who have higher needs.  We are excited\, yet humbled that we are ready to receive the first girl child into PSGC on 01 Jun 2017. \nPSGC will complete the continuum of our residential care service under the Ahuva Good Shepherd theme. Currently\, Ahuva Good Shepherd – Children’s Home provides long-term care to girls aged 4 to 16 years\, whose families are facing challenges\, such as marital discord\, domestic violence and parent’s incarceration\, while Ahuva Good Shepherd – Interim Placement and Assessment Centre (IPAC) serves children who enter the MSF Child Protection Services due to abuse or neglect\, loss or incarceration of parents\, abandonment or experiencing breakdown in their current care arrangements. IPAC provides a temporary safe environment for these children while social investigations and assessments are carried out to determine their future care arrangements. During their short-term stay\, usually between one and thirty days\, we provide casework services and conduct structured programmes for the children whose age ranges from 4 to 12 years. We work closely with MSF Child Protection Services to assess the care needs and critical emotional and behavioral issues of the children to better inform placement decisions. We help to facilitate the children’s transition to longer-term placements such as with next-of-kin\, foster family or in children’s homes. \nMarymount Centre has been blessed with staff who are dedicated and committed to the care of these girls. Sometimes staff are tested to the limits by the girls who are often unaware of their heightened state of anxiety and pain caused by the stresses and trauma they have been through. What keeps the staff patiently striving to sit through the storms with the girls is their belief in our Good Shepherd ethos and charism and living out what St Mary Euphrasia has passed on to us\, for example\, “It is not enough that you love them\, they must know that you love them.” \n \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/marymount-centre-launches-new-service-in-singapore/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170608
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170609
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T202849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170817T165103Z
UID:653-1496880000-1496966399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Feast of Blessed Maria Droste
DESCRIPTION:118th Anniversary \n“Let me pour out this Love into the hearts of all. Let me welcome with compassion the poor\, the oppressed\, the rejected\, those in danger\, and lead them all to you\, the Good Shepherd.” \nBlessed Maria
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/feast-of-blessed-maria-droste/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Maria-Droste-zu-Vischering-e1502786024751.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170613
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170614
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170815T190637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170817T183717Z
UID:902-1497312000-1497398399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Ahuva Good Shepherd Residents Celebrate Parents' Day with Elderly
DESCRIPTION:Most of the young residents of Ahuva Good Shepherd Singapore had not heard of Teresa Teng\, let alone sing her songs in Mandarin. However\, they practised hard and confidently belted out “Yue Liang Dai Biao Wo De Xin” (The Moon Represents My Heart) to the delight of the elderly folks gathered at Adventist Active Centre at Kim Keat Avenue to celebrate Parents’ Day.  The audience of about 90 elderly residents from the surrounding blocks\, mostly from low-income households\, joined in enthusiastically to sing other oldies presented by the girls\, and many gamely participated in a fast-paced version of “Head\, Shoulders\, Knees and Toes”.  \nThe beautiful bonding of young and old was a touching sight to behold. There was much laughter and playful bantering when both sides pitched their skills in picking up uncooked macaroni with chopsticks\, and folding and flying paper planes. Without any prompting from staff\, the girls joined the queue for food only after all the elderly were served. Many of the elderly residents said that they were impressed by the good manners of the children and appreciated the cupcakes that they made for them.   \nSome of the girls said that they were pleasantly surprised to see that this group of elderly were active\, independent and fun-loving; and they would like to have further opportunities to participate in community services.  \nAudience gamely joining in “Head\, Shoulders\, Knees and Toes”.
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/ahuva-good-shepherd-residents-celebrates-parents-day-with-elderly/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AGS-Parents-Day-Flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170701
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170702
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T225120Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171023T225751Z
UID:668-1498867200-1498953599@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Sr Joan Celebrates 25 years
DESCRIPTION:Sr Joan Celebrates 25 years of God’s Faithfulness \nWhen Sr Joan Lopez made her First Profession 25 years ago\, the theme was\, “To act justly\, to love tenderly\, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). In steadfastly trying to live her life according to those words\, it was no surprise that Sr Joan would choose the same theme when she celebrated God’s faithfulness with the community of Good Shepherd Sisters\, her family members\, lay mission partners and some residents of the programmes in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. \nOn 27 June 2017\, about 100 people gathered at the Chapel in Good Shepherd Place in Toa Payoh\, Singapore to join Sr Joan for a time of prayer and thanksgiving at the Eucharist\, celebrated by Fr John Sim. Father spoke of the faithfulness that we are all called to in our different vocations. The lovely singing by the choir headed by the sisters in formation added great meaning to the celebration. The joy of the occasion and bond of loving fellowship was completed by the cutting of cake\, artfully created by volunteers of DAWN (Developing All Women in the New era)\, dinner and lighted-hearted impromptu songs and dances. \n0n 01 July 2017\, another celebration was held at Madonna Heights\, Kuala Lumpur. The Eucharist was celebrated by Fr Christopher Soosaipillai\, parish priest of Good Shepherd Church Setapak\, Kuala Lumpur. In his homily\, Fr Chris spoke about relationships and connectedness with others. Another cake to cut was made with great care and love by two sisters\, Srs Lourdes and Helena. The choir from Good Shepherd Church added to the celebrative atmosphere with their beautiful singing. This was followed by a sumptuous lunch. \nSr Joan expressed her heartfelt thanks to her late parents\, for their example of living the faith and for their guidance; to her family members\, some of who were present\, all her Good Shepherd sisters and mission partners for journeying with her through the 25 years. She drew inspiration from her family members\, sisters and mission partners\, who\, through their own lives and sacrifices had taught her to trust and to hope. They show her through their own examples what it is to be committed and faithful to God and to the Good Shepherd mission. She expressed her indebtedness to the many programme participants and the persons in the different services who face challenging situations daily\, and yet are prepared to work at overcoming them. They teach her the meaning of perseverance and humility. \nSr Joan felt that life is a gift\, given to her each day by our magnanimous God\, and the ministries and the people who come into her path are opportunities provided to her to live her life meaningfully and with purpose. For her\, celebrating 25 years is not about her faithfulness to God but rather\, it is about God’s faithfulness to us. \nSr Joan with Sisters and Family in Singapore \nSr Joan with Sisters in Kuala Lumpur \nSr Joan with Mission Partners in Kuala Lumpur
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/sr-joan-celebrates-25-years/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170730
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170731
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170807T233058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170816T005434Z
UID:606-1501372800-1501459199@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:World Day Against Trafficking in Persons - Singapore
DESCRIPTION:By Alona Aguila and Jane Goh \nHuman trafficking is the trade of humans\, such as forced labour\, sexual slavery\, commercial sexual exploitation and removal of organs. The Blue Heart Campaign against Human Trafficking\, initiated by United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)\, aims to raise awareness of trafficking in persons (TIP)\, the plight of victims\, and to fight this shameful global crime against human dignity. The Campaign’s Blue Heart symbolizes sadness and reminds us of the cold-heartedness of traffickers. \nAt Good Shepherd Centre\, we introduced Blue Heart Campaign to the residents in 2 sessions. In the first session\, we tuned in with a round table discussion on human trafficking\, including examples of trafficking.  A few residents shared true stories they personally knew. After a role play and seeing some pictures of likely traffickers\, residents shared their thoughts and feelings about the victims of sexual trafficking; descriptions such as “scared”\, “dangerous” and “crimes” were used. At the second session we showed two videos on organ trafficking to give a deeper understanding of human trafficking.  During discussions which followed\, residents clarified their understanding of TIP and their negative impact on society. They agreed to raise awareness to this global problem. \nThe residents wrote or drew on blue heart shaped cards\, their commitment to help victims of TIP in their own way\, some of which were prayers\, reaching-out\, sending positive energy through drawing colorful hearts.  On the floor\, we formed a big heart with a blue cloth and candles surrounding it\, symbolizing healing for the victims and survivors of trafficking. The residents were invited to put their right hands on the cloth as a pledge to carry the awareness of TIP to others\, that they will share what they have learned in the sessions in their home countries and spread awareness through social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.    \nAs a finale\, we gathered to sing\, “One Woman”\, an excerpt of which:- \n“We are one woman\, you cry and I hear you \nWe are one woman your hopes are mine \nAnd we shall shine \nWe are one woman your courage keeps me strong \nWe are one woman your dreams are mine and we shall shine.”
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/world-day/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Blue-Heart-logo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170730
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170731
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T011837Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170918T194439Z
UID:624-1501372800-1501459199@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:World Day Against Trafficking in Persons - Kuala Lumpur
DESCRIPTION:INTER-FAITH JOINT DECLARATION AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING \nBy Wilhelmina Mowe \nOn 30 July\, 2017 in conjunction with World Day against Trafficking in Persons\, the Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur gathered 10 religious leaders to sign an Inter-Faith Joint Declaration against Human Trafficking.  The event was organised in collaboration with the Conference of Religious Major Superiors Malaysia-Singapore-Brunei. \nThe historic event was also witnessed by Cardinal Soter Fernandez and Archbishop Emeritus Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam. \nIn support of the event\, 4 Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) and the Archdiocese Office for Human Development (AOHD) were invited to set up a booth each to create awareness of the issues in relation to trafficking in persons in Malaysia. The NGOs were Pusat Kebajikan Good Shepherd (PKGS)\, Tenaganita\, New Thessalonians Apostolate and Suka Society (a child advocacy group). \nPKGS and AOHD worked together to create a “forced labour – trafficker’s bus” and an advocacy booth on sex trafficking.  The bus showcased the journey of hope for migrants which eventually ended up in a journey of despair when they found out that they were cheated and exploited by the agents and traffickers.  At the end of the bus tour the visitors were informed that as consumers we can do our own advocacy in being better informed of the source of the products that we purchase. To create this awareness\, we encouraged the visitors to do the survey at the “slaveryfootprint.org” website and learn how they may do their part in reducing the use of forced labour in the production of goods. \nAt the booth\, we had visitors hold signs for a photo shoot with personal messages on their stand against trafficking in persons. \nThe whole event culminated in the signing of Inter-Faith Joint Declaration by the faith leaders.  In his speech\, Most Reverend Julian Leow said “This joint declaration is just our first step. People of faith must play their part in the fight against human trafficking\, and I ask everyone to consider what each of us can do.” \nThis joint declaration was pursuant to the release of the 2017 Trafficking in Person Report by the US State Department.  This year Malaysia’s ranking improved to Tier 2 after two years of being on the Tier 2 Watch list.\n \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/world-day-against-trafficking-in-persons/
LOCATION:Archdiocese
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Interfaith-KL.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170731
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170801
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170815T174059Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170918T194721Z
UID:896-1501459200-1501545599@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Blessing of New PKGS Shelter in Kuala Lumpur
DESCRIPTION:By Wilhelmina Mowe \nFollowing on the Government’s appointment of PKGS as a shelter provider for trafficked survivors\, two shelters have been set up\, one in Kuala Lumpur and another in Kota Kinabalu\, each with a capacity of 20 beds.  The appointment will commence on 1 August 2017.  \nThe shelter in Kuala Lumpur will potentially receive trafficked survivors from 3 shelters in Peninsular Malaysia.  This collaboration signifies a new level of trust and willingness by the government to work with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) to ensure that the survivors of human trafficking are given opportunities to freedom of movement and employment\, enabling them to recover their dignity and lives. \nAfter much preparation by the enthusiastic new team\, the Kuala Lumpur shelter is ready for admissions.  We were privileged that The Most Reverend Julian Leow\, Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur\, agreed to bless the shelter on 31 July 2017\, which we believe is not a coincidence\, is the birthday of our beloved Mother Foundress\, St Mary Euphrasia. \nThe gathering comprised Good Shepherd Sisters\, staff\, volunteers and lay associates.  The event began with a welcome speech by Executive Director\, Ms Chin Poh Choo\,  who explained the concept of the shelter; that it was a historic moment of collaboration with the government.  This was followed by prayers led by Sr Salomi. \nHis Grace then said a short prayer for safety and protection of the mission before blessing the entire shelter with holy water. \nThe  participants enjoyed fellowship over some drinks and snacks.
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/blessing-of-new-pkgs-shelter/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170731
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170801
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170815T192541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170920T222040Z
UID:909-1501459200-1501545599@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Marymount Convent School Celebrates 60th Anniversary
DESCRIPTION:The Good Shepherd Sisters’ Annals recorded that on 16 January 1958 Marymount Convent School (MCS) was blessed after it was officially opened in 1957. Sixty years have gone by and MCS went through two big shifts and face lifts.  Starting out as a full school with a Chinese Primary Section which phased out when Singapore ceased the Chinese Medium Schools in the 1980s\, its Secondary Section also phased out in 1995 when it became necessary for the school to undergo re- building and be equipped for 21st century education.  Spending 2 years at a holding school in Lorong 8 Toa Payoh\, MCS returned to its Marymount Road premises in June 1999.  Incidentally 15 years later\, the Good Shepherd Sisters relocated with the kindergarten and social services to the school’s holding site after the land and buildings at Thomson Road was compulsorily acquired by the Government.  The then Minister of Education\, Mr Teo Chee Hean officiated the opening of the new school building on Foundress Day\, 24 April 2001. \nThis year MCS celebrates her 60th anniversary with year-long activities giving thanks to God for all the blessings received\, and opening themselves to more blessings to come.  Using St Mary Euphrasia’s favourite quote “Gratitude is the memory of the heart”\, a quote by Jean-Baptiste Massieu\, a pioneering deaf educator and contemporary of St Mary Euphrasia\, students and staff reflected on\, acted from and encouraged grateful hearts to flourish and grow. \nCelebrations were highlighted with pomp and pageantry on 31July 2017\, the birthday of St Mary Euphrasia. \nThe morning began with the school singing “Glory and Praise to our God”\, remembering the goodness of God and all the good people who had served over the last 60 years.  The students were then taken on a picture tour to various places in France\, to the places where their Foundress lived and worked.  Some Good Shepherd Sisters shared with the cohorts of different levels their experiences\, their ministries and their hopes.   The day climaxed with a Homecoming Dinner Event coinciding with the official opening of the upgraded premises and a new Heritage Gallery.  The school had the honour of having DPM Teo Chee Hean\, who had graced various other occasions\, officiating the event. \nAmong the guests were former principals\, Mrs Angela Tan and Ms Cecilia Lim.  The latter saw to the completion of upgrading of the school but was transferred out of the school to serve at St Anthony’s Primary School at the end of 2016.  In its 60th year MCS is helmed by its 6th principal\, Mrs Allison Lim.  Fr. Edward Seah\, Director of ACCS was also present. \nThe students put up a musical reminiscing the past.  The vibrantly sarong kebaya clad choir sang\, and the gymnasts put up amazing displays of their prowess.  The music ensemble was complete with a young harpist adding melodies to their recital.  Modern dancers were impressive. Guests were thoroughly entertained. \nFormer pupils who attended the dinner included local celebrities and many other grand personalities.   Parents of current students also joined in the celebrations.  It was heart-warming to hear former pupils think of the school so fondly.  “I’m so happy to be back”\, “I love this school”\, “Marymount is so much a part of my life”\, “I owe my life to my Alma Mater” were some of the comments they made.  They sang the school song with much gusto and repeated it after it was over. \nMany missed the Convent “next door” and especially the Convent Chapel and the Grotto of our Lady where they remembered best going over to pray during exams and in times of need. \nThe school now has a small Prayer Room where children’s adoration are held weekly.   Recently four volunteers\, one of whom is a parent of an alumna\, painstakingly decorated the wall with a mosaic image of the Good Shepherd using aluminum drink cans (see picture below).  The brilliant idea created a more conducive and prayerful atmosphere welcoming all visitors to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. \n \nDPM Teo Chee Hean wrote in his Facebook the day after the celebration:- \n“Happy 60th to Marymount Convent School! Great pleasure to be back at MCS and be part of its homecoming dinner celebrations. Happy to see the strong school spirit and the lively energy of the students. My best wishes to MCS as it marks this significant milestone and wishing it many more years ahead.” \nIndeed\, all glory and praise to God\, for his love and blessings.
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/909/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170819
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170820
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T202639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170818T035132Z
UID:649-1503100800-1503187199@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Feast of St John Eudes
DESCRIPTION:337th Anniversary \n“You must never separate what God has so perfectly united. So closely are Jesus and Mary bound up with each other that whoever beholds Jesus sees Mary; whoever loves Jesus\, loves Mary; whoever has devotion to Jesus\, has devotion to Mary.” \nSt John Eudes \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/feast-of-st-john-eudes/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/St.-John-Eudes-Confessor-e1502873436587.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170901
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170904
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170822T214203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170823T174912Z
UID:1042-1504224000-1504483199@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Mission Link Celebrates 10th Anniversary
DESCRIPTION:  \nTheme for Mission Link 10th Anniversary Partnership Gathering: \n“Remembering… Celebrating… Together\, We Risk for Mission” \nThis Gathering is a special opportunity to:- \n1) have a meaningful celebration of Good Shepherd Partnership in Mission\, and \n2) strengthen our Mission journey with newness\, zeal and partnership. \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/mission-link-celebrates-10th-anniversary/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/logo-17.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171005
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171006
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20171002T193547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171008T222032Z
UID:1058-1507161600-1507247999@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Marymount Convent School Celebrates Children's Day
DESCRIPTION:By Martha Teo \nChildren’s Day has been celebrated in Singapore since 1961. It used to be observed on 01 October until 2012\, when the Ministry of Education decided to move Children’s Day to the first Friday of October. Primary school children get a holiday on the day\, this year on 06 October. \nThe girls of Marymount Convent School (MCS) are excited on the morning of Thursday\, 05 October 2017 as they greet each other\, many of whom are dressed in their favourite outing clothes instead of the ubiquitous school uniform. They are looking forward to celebrating Children’s Day; a day specially set aside to celebrate the joys of childhood. The theme for this year’s celebration is\, “Colours of the Rainbow”. Thus teachers and students came dressed in the cheerful hues of the rainbow. \nSqueals of laughter could be heard all over the school as class parties got under way. Food\, games\, and all the frills and trappings of having a wonderful time are evident in every classroom\, especially in the lower primary ones. See photos below. \n \nOne of the higher level classes is said to have turned their classroom into a disco. The girls of MCS obviously know how to let their hair down when it is time to do so. As the clock ticks towards eleven\, it is time to clear up in readiness for the concert to be presented by the adults. Girls in beautiful clothes are seen scurrying around with black garbage bags\, disposing them appropriately into the different bins. It is heartening to observe that the children practice ecological justice amidst their partying and fun. \nI could hear the voice of the Discipline Master calling the school to order as the girls filed into the Hall to take their seats on the floor\, lining their colourful bags by their sides. See photo below. \n \nJust a little after 11.30am\, the emcee teases the children into a mood of expectation for a good time hosted by the teachers and staff. The principal\, Mrs Allison Lim wishes the attentive girls\, “Happy Children’s Day” and reads a message from Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim\, Senior Parliamentary Secretary\, Ministry of Education\, who calls on the children of Singapore to use their gifts to reach out to the less fortunate\, so that together the nation will progress in strength and build our future together. \nSr Del leads in a time of prayer\, during which she urges the girls to remember other children who are not able to receive an education and are in various situations of risk and danger. The mood is sombre when the session concluded with the recitation of the Lord’s Prayer. See more details under “International Day of the Girl” which is observed on 11 October 2017. \nLet the show begin! Teachers of every level\, and various departments\, as well as members of Parents’ Support Group contribute items to entertain the children who eagerly participated when invited. The hall is filled with unbridled enthusiasm and laughter as teachers and staff show that they too could let their hair down. It is clear that the hosts of the concert put in great efforts to entertain their young guests who show their appreciation by clapping loudly. See photos below for an idea of the two hours of celebration. \n \nAs I stood at a corner of the school plaza watching parents and significant other adults fetch the children home\, I heard comments such as\, “it was so fun”\, “you know my teacher was a very cute baby”\, “my class won a prize”\, “my teachers were so cool\, they dance”…. All around me\, children are busy unwrapping their snacks without a care in the world. It is a privilege for me to attend “Colours of the Rainbow @ MCS”. I remember my own carefree childhood and whisper a prayer for all the children of the world who are deprived of theirs.
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/marymount-convent-school-celebrates-childrens-day/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/MCS-CD2017-e1507270462275.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20171011T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20171011T235900
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T200802Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171024T222442Z
UID:450-1507680000-1507766340@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Marymount Convent School Observes International Day of the Girl
DESCRIPTION:  \nBy Sr Del\, RGS \nAs part of Children’s Day celebrations\, staff and students of Marymount Convent School (MCS) held a prayer session\, in which they remembered the millions of children\, especially girls who are in situations of deprivation\, health risk and in danger of abuse and exploitation. These suffering children in Africa\, Thailand\, Myanmar\, Vietnam\, Indonesia\, Cambodia\, Laos and Philippines have lost their childhood. Huge number of young girls are mothers caring for their babies in impoverished slums\, working on farms and in factories\, or begging on the streets\, some with limbs cruelly hacked off. In Singapore\, while there are some children who also suffer abuse and other social injustices\, the majority have full education and enjoy their childhood\, surrounded and supported by their families\, teachers and friends.\nThus\, MCS intentionally raise awareness to International Day of the Girl and urge the students to join in prayer for their peers around the world who have lost their rights to their childhood. Candles symbolising Hope were lighted for the following groups of children:- \n \nA missing child is a parent’s worst nightmare. Every day\, thousands of children go missing during calamities\, e.g. tsunamis\, floods\, and earthquakes; tragedies\, such as riots\, wars\, and accidents; in crowded places\, like railway stations\, and malls. Some children run away from their homes or are kidnapped; many of these children end up being trafficked for child labour\, sex exploitation\, begging in the streets and even beaten to death. \n                                         \nChildren with special needs may have autism\, cerebral palsy\, muscular dystrophy\, epilepsy\, Down Syndrome\, mental retardation\, dyslexia\, sensory or speech disorders like vision or hearing impairment. They require assistance for the developmental disabilities that may be medical\, mental or psychological. These children are sometimes ignored and excluded from the mainstream and need the inclusion and services of therapy and education that they deserve. \n                                    \nFood is the most basic human need. Lack of food causes malnutrition which threatens life and limits physical development and mental capacity to grow and learn. Every six seconds a child dies because of hunger. Malnutrition costs valuable lives; 50 per cent of all childhood deaths are due to malnutrition. In India alone 15 million children die of hunger each year. \nThere is more than enough food on the planet to feed everyone. The world has the knowledge\, resources and the tools to conquer hunger but sadly there is not enough effort worldwide to bring food security to the poorest. \nLet us do our part to cut down food wastage and share what we have\, whenever we can\, so that no child goes to bed hungry and no child is born underweight or stay undernourished. \n                                   \nThe life of an individual human being begins with conception and ends with death. In abortion an unborn child dies. Abortion is killing a very young human life and is against God’s prized creation. The ‘culture of silence’ of those who know better and yet cannot protect the voiceless unborn is ironical. \nEvery year\, about 11 million babies are killed before they are born\, and around 20\,000 women die every year due to abortion related complications. \nIn Singapore about 10\,000 babies a year are not given a chance to live. \nLet us pray for responsible living in our world. \n                                   \nChild labour is work that harms children and keeps them from going to school. Millions of children are occupied in work that deny their right to survival\, education and development. They are often abused and neglected. It is estimated that 215 million children currently work at all sorts of dangerous jobs around the world because of poverty. They labour in agriculture\, are exposed to pesticides\, in cotton fields and plantations; in carpet manufacturing\, fireworks\, brickworks\, glassworks and footwear factories. They work in mines and quarries\, in setting explosives\, sieving and carrying ore. \nThere are also the Street Children who are abandoned by their families or those who run away from home due to constant abuse. They live off the streets looking for odd jobs to earn a living\, searching for food in rubbish heaps and sleep on the pavements. Some are recruited as child soldiers\, some for the drugs trade and others sold for other illegal services. \nStreet life is unpleasant\, risky and always exposed to intense sun\, rain\, cold\, dirt\, smoke and pollution. Street children work as rag pickers or pickers from rubbish bins and garbage heaps for recycling waste paper\, plastic\, glass\, scrap metal\, and the list goes on.Often\, people regard street children as lawless\, crime-prone outcasts. Police and local officials use violence and force against them\, arrest them and dump them in jail-like remand homes. Though they live in hardship and poverty they survive in groups\, sharing things like food and clothes in a spirit of friendship – they sleep together under the same night sky\, teach each other trades like rag-picking\, protect each other from street violence and the police\, and take care of each other when they are sick. \nLet us pray for these unfortunate children who face great difficulties through no fault of their own and remember that in small or big ways we can offer them some help by being grateful and sharing our blessings. \nWe pray the Lord’s Prayer for all the children of our world\, especially those whose lives are hard and miserable and lift them up to God who is Father.
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/international-day-of-the-girl-child/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/MCS-Childrens-Day-051017-e1507002146936.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Singapore:20171015T000000
DTEND;TZID=Asia/Singapore:20171015T235900
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170816T220913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171024T221909Z
UID:947-1508025600-1508111940@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:International Day of Rural Women
DESCRIPTION:“Rural women\, the majority of whom depend on natural resources and agriculture for their livelihoods\, make up over a quarter of the total world population. In developing countries\, rural women represent approximately 43 per cent of the agricultural labour force\, and produce\, process and prepare much of the food available\, thereby giving them primary responsibility for food security. \nBearing in mind that 76 per cent of the extreme poor live in rural areas\, ensuring rural women’s access to productive agricultural resources contributes to decreasing world hunger and poverty\, and make rural women critical for the success of the new Sustainable Development agenda for 2030. \nThe first International Day of Rural Women was observed on 15 October 2008. This new international day\, established by the General Assembly in its resolution 62/136 of 18 December 2007\, recognizes “the critical role and contribution of rural women\, including indigenous women\, in enhancing agricultural and rural development\, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.” ”  \nSource: http://www.un.org/en/events/ruralwomenday/ \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/international-day-of-rural-women/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Rural-Women.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171114
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171115
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20171130T223439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171130T223711Z
UID:1287-1510617600-1510703999@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Senior Citizens Support Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence
DESCRIPTION:Every weekday a group of senior citizens gather at the Adventist Active Centre in Golden Clover\, a HDB Studio Apartment Block in Toa Payoh to exercise\, play games\, sing\, dance and enjoy each other’s company\, sometimes over home-cooked meals. On 14 Nov 2017\, about 20 of them responded to a call to volunteer for an activity they have not done before. Under the supervision of Centre Manager\, Gillian Chong\, these men and women\, mostly in their 60’s to 80’s cheerfully took their positions at a line of tables to prepare orange coloured ribbons. \nFrom 25 November\, which marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women to 10 December\, which is Human Rights Day\, the 16 days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign is a time to galvanize action to end violence against women and girls around the world. The international campaign originated from the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute coordinated by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership in 1991. \nCurrently\, more than 3\,700 organizations from approximately 164 countries participate in the campaign annually. This year\, Marymount Centre which provides care and shelter to women and girls\, some of whom are victims of violence\, bring awareness to this injustice by encouraging people\, young and old\, male and female\, to wear an orange ribbon prepared by the senior citizens to show their support to eliminate violence against women and girls \nWe thank the management and members of Adventist Active Centre in Golden Clover for their time and effort in preparing the ribbons\, and their support in eliminating gender-based violence. \nHere are some photos of the hard work contributed by the senior citizens:- \n \n                                                                                                      
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/senior-citizens-support-campaign-against-gender-based-violence/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171125
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171126
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T201302Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171025T233815Z
UID:635-1511568000-1511654399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
DESCRIPTION:  \nWhy This International Day? \n• Violence against women is a human rights violation.\n• Violence against women is a consequence of discrimination against women\, in law and also in practice\, and of persisting inequalities between men and women.\n• Violence against women impacts on\, and impedes\, progress in many areas\, including poverty eradication\, combating HIV/AIDS\, and peace and security.\n• Violence against women and girls is not inevitable. Prevention is possible and essential.\n• Violence against women continues to be a global pandemic. \nOne of the major challenges to efforts to prevent and end violence against women and girls worldwide is the substantial funding shortfall. As a result\, resources for initiatives to prevent and end violence against women and girls are severely lacking. Frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals\, which includes a specific target on ending violence against women and girls\, offer huge promise\, but must be adequately funded in order to bring real and significant changes in the lives of women and girls. \nFrom 25 November through 10 December\, Human Rights Day\, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence aim to raise public awareness and mobilizing people everywhere to bring about change. \nAdapted from:- http://www.un.org/en/events/endviolenceday/ \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/international-day-for-the-elimination-of-violence-against-women/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://gssmmission.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Orange-the-World-e1509002436837.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171125
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171211
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T201429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171106T214309Z
UID:637-1511568000-1512950399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence - Singapore
DESCRIPTION:From 25 November\, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women\, to 10 December\, Human Rights Day\, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign is a time to galvanize action to end violence against women and girls around the world. The international campaign originated from the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute coordinated by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership in 1991. Currently\, more than 3\,700 organizations from approximately 164 countries participate in the campaign annually. \nAWARE conducted a survey in 2013 which inferred that violence against women is a pressing issue in Singapore. 1 in 10 women in Singapore experience lifetime physical violence by a male (International Violence Against Women Survey\, 2010). 6 in 10 victims of physical violence suffer repeated victimisation.\nOutrage of modesty cases reported remain high between 1\,369 and 1\,450 over the past three years (Singapore Police Force\, 2015).  \n Sexual Violence – Victim blaming attitude is common\, 1 in 10 respondents think women who are raped are often “asking for it.” 40 percent of respondents aged 18-39 and over 50 percent of respondents aged 40 and above agree that women who wear provocative clothing are “asking for it” and should bear responsibility for harassment. Such victim-blaming attitudes contribute to restricting women’s sexual freedom\, legitimising sexual harassment and resulting in unsupportive first response to victims. \nRecommendations  \no Raise public awareness on violence\, with understanding that age\, gender\, and background affect beliefs and attitudes.\no Educate and inform bystanders with knowledge and tools to reduce violence against women.\no Provide social support for women in violent relationships so they have a choice to leave.\no Challenge beliefs and attitudes about gender roles and expectations\, especially in men and youth \nWhether or not you had been a victim\, a witness or a perpetrator of violence or oblivious to issue\, you can and must do your part to eradicate this menace that impedes peace and respect to humanity. Besides awareness\, change of attitude\, and respect for every human being\, you can also pray often for victims who are hurting\, and for perpetrators to cease their despicable actions. \nWe will pray for healing. Every time we welcome someone as they are\, we are helping to heal. Every time we show friendship\, inclusion and kindness\, we are helping to heal. Every time we stand up for the dignity of someone’s culture and identity\, we are helping to heal. \nPRAYER  \nOPENING PRAYER \nWe pray: In the name of the Father\, and of the Son\, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. \nGod\, our Loving Creator\, you heal broken hearts with your love\, and call us to share this love with one another. Open our hearts to your word that we might learn to walk in peace with one another along your healing path. We are sorry that we have not always loved our neighbour as ourselves\, especially when we have failed to respect or have ignored our sisters and brothers who suffer or caused suffering. Forgive us and strengthen us that through our words and actions we may show that we are truly sorry for our actions and non-actions. \nWe make this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen. \nREADING: From the prophet Isaiah (Is 41:10) \nDo not fear\, for I am with you\, do not be afraid\, for I am your God; I will strengthen you\, I will help you\, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. \nThe Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. \nREFLECTION QUESTIONS \nGod is always with us. He is our strength along the healing path. \no What can I do to help others to heal today?\no What kind word can I say to make someone feel welcome and remind them that they belong?\no Can I reach out in friendship to someone who needs help?\no Can I include someone in a game or a conversation?\no Can I hold the door for someone?\no Can I stand up for someone who is being teased? \nAll of these things can bring healing to our hearts\, our families and society. Let us say\, “Yes” to God’s call to help others heal. \nJesus taught us to call God\, OUR FATHER. Let us be reminded that we are family as with confidence\, we lift our hearts to Him: Our Father who art in heaven\, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come\, your will be done on earth as in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Amen. \nWe also ask Mother Mary to pray for us and all who need healing and forgiveness: Hail Mary\, full of grace\, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb\, Jesus. Holy Mary\, Mother of God\, pray for us\, sinners\, now and at the hour of our death.\nAmen. \nCLOSING PRAYER \nGod of all people\, we thank you for the gift of love. Help us to love our neighbour as ourselves so that everyone will respect each other and live in harmony enjoying the peace which Jesus came to give. We make our prayer in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.\nAmen. \n \nhttps://gssmmission.org/justice-peace-solidarity-in-mission/
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/16-days-of-activism-against-gender-violence/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171125
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171211
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20171130T230245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171130T233204Z
UID:1299-1511568000-1512950399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence - Malaysia
DESCRIPTION:Click here to read more at Good Shepherd Malaysia:- https://goodshepherd.my/orange-world \n  \n 
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/16-days-of-activism-against-gender-based-violence-malaysia/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171202
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171203
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T201528Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170808T201706Z
UID:639-1512172800-1512259199@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/international-day-for-the-abolition-of-slavery/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171205
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171206
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T201758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20170808T201758Z
UID:641-1512432000-1512518399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:International Volunteer Day
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/international-volunteer-day/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20171210
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20171211
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T202105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171027T030251Z
UID:643-1512864000-1512950399@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:Human Rights Day
DESCRIPTION:What are human rights? \nHuman rights are rights inherent to all human beings\, whatever our nationality\, place of residence\, sex\, national or ethnic origin\, colour\, religion\, language\, or any other status. We are all equally entitled to our human rights without discrimination. These rights are all interrelated\, interdependent and indivisible.\nUniversal human rights are often expressed and guaranteed by law\, in the forms of treaties\, customary international law\, general principles and other sources of international law. International human rights law lays down obligations of Governments to act in certain ways or to refrain from certain acts\, in order to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals or groups. \nUniversal and inalienable \nThe principle of universality of human rights is the cornerstone of international human rights law. This principle\, as first emphasized in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights in 1948\, has been reiterated in numerous international human rights conventions\, declarations\, and resolutions. The 1993 Vienna World Conference on Human Rights\, for example\, noted that it is the duty of States to promote and protect all human rights and fundamental freedoms\, regardless of their political\, economic and cultural systems.\nAll States have ratified at least one\, and 80% of States have ratified four or more\, of the core human rights treaties\, reflecting consent of States which creates legal obligations for them and giving concrete expression to universality. Some fundamental human rights norms enjoy universal protection by customary international law across all boundaries and civilizations.\nHuman rights are inalienable. They should not be taken away\, except in specific situations and according to due process. For example\, the right to liberty may be restricted if a person is found guilty of a crime by a court of law. \nInterdependent and indivisible \nAll human rights are indivisible\, whether they are civil and political rights\, such as the right to life\, equality before the law and freedom of expression; economic\, social and cultural rights\, such as the rights to work\, social security and education \, or collective rights\, such as the rights to development and self-determination\, are indivisible\, interrelated and interdependent. The improvement of one right facilitates advancement of the others. Likewise\, the deprivation of one right adversely affects the others. \nEqual and non-discriminatory \nNon-discrimination is a cross-cutting principle in international human rights law. The principle is present in all the major human rights treaties and provides the central theme of some of international human rights conventions such as the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.\nThe principle applies to everyone in relation to all human rights and freedoms and it prohibits discrimination on the basis of a list of non-exhaustive categories such as sex\, race\, colour and so on. The principle of non-discrimination is complemented by the principle of equality\, as stated in Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” \nBoth Rights and Obligations \nHuman rights entail both rights and obligations. States assume obligations and duties under international law to respect\, to protect and to fulfil human rights. The obligation to respect means that States must refrain from interfering with or curtailing the enjoyment of human rights. The obligation to protect requires States to protect individuals and groups against human rights abuses. The obligation to fulfil means that States must take positive action to facilitate the enjoyment of basic human rights. At the individual level\, while we are entitled our human rights\, we should also respect the human rights of others. \nAdapted from:- http://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Pages/WhatareHumanRights.aspx
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/human-rights-day/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20180308
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20180309
DTSTAMP:20260404T142528
CREATED:20170808T202155Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180130T223825Z
UID:645-1520467200-1520553599@gssmmission.org
SUMMARY:International Women's Day 2018
DESCRIPTION:Adapted from:-http://www.unwomen.org/en/news/in-focus/international-womens-day \nQuote \nThe theme for International Women’s Day\, 8 March\, is “Time is Now: Rural and urban activists transforming women’s lives”.\nThis year\, International Women’s Day comes on the heels of unprecedented global movement for women’s rights\, equality and justice. Sexual harassment\, violence and discrimination against women has captured headlines and public discourse\, propelled by a rising determination for change.\nPeople around the world are mobilizing for a future that is more equal. This has taken the form of global marches and campaigns\, including #MeToo in the United States of America and its counterparts in other countries\, protesting against sexual harassment and violence\, such as #YoTambien in Mexico\, Spain\, South America and beyond\, #QuellaVoltaChe in Italy\, #BalanceTonPorc in France and #Ana_kaman in the Arab States; “Ni Una Menos” (‘not one less’)\, a campaign against femicide that originated in Argentina; and many others\, on issues ranging from equal pay to women’s political representation.\nInternational Women’s Day 2018 is an opportunity to transform this momentum into action\, to empower women in all settings\, rural and urban\, and celebrate the activists who are working relentlessly to claim women’s rights and realize their full potential.\nEchoing the priority theme of the upcoming 62nd session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women\, International Women’s Day will also draw attention to the rights and activism of rural women\, who make up over a quarter of the world population and majority of the 43 per cent of women in the global agricultural labour force.\nThey till the lands and plant seeds to feed nations\, ensure food security for their communities and build climate resilience. Yet\, on almost every measure of development\, because of deep seated gender inequalities and discrimination\, rural women fare worse than rural men or urban women. For instance\, less than 20 per cent of landholders worldwide are women\, and while the global pay gap between men and women stand at 23 per cent\, in rural areas\, it can be as high as 40 per cent. They lack infrastructure and services\, decent work and social protection\, and are left more vulnerable to the effects of climate change.\nMaking the promise of the Sustainable Development Goals a reality\, to leave no one behind\, needs urgent action in rural areas to ensure an adequate standard of living\, a life free of violence and harmful practices for rural women\, as well as their access to land and productive assets\, food security and nutrition\, decent work\, education and health\, including their sexual and reproductive health and rights.\nRural women and their organizations represent an enormous potential\, and they are on the move to claim their rights and improve their livelihoods and wellbeing. They are using innovative agricultural methods\, setting up successful businesses and acquiring new skills\, pursuing their legal entitlements and running for office. Recently\, as hundreds of courageous women from the film\, theatre and art industry in the USA started speaking against sexual harassment and assault by powerful men in the industry\, they found a powerful ally in Alianza Nacional de Campesinas\, the national farmworker women’s organization\, no stranger to the abuse of power.\nOn 8 March\, join activists around the world and UN Women to seize the moment\, celebrate\, take action and transform women’s lives everywhere. The time is NOW. \nUnquote \nAs at 30 Jan 2018
URL:https://gssmmission.org/event/international-womens-day/
CATEGORIES:Feature Event
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