GOOD SHEPHERD MISSION

Jean Fernandez, a member of the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, served as a missionary in the United States for more than 30 years with the Province of Mid-North America. In 2021, she returned to Singapore, where she now ministers within the Singapore-Malaysia province. With a degree in counseling psychology, she focuses on spiritual mentorship and counseling, accompanying individuals on their faith journeys and offering services in mental health. She also serves as a supervisor and educator at Marymount Convent School in Singapore, dedicated to guiding both youth and adults.

In the tapestry of my life, every friend is a thread of God's merciful love, woven with intention, grace and care. I am deeply blessed to be surrounded by friends who, through their quiet witness and faithful presence, draw me ever closer to the heart of God. These friendships are not marked by dramatic gestures, but by simple, sacred moments, real and deeply human, that reveal the face of the Good Shepherd.

First, I think of the women I live with, companions in faith, mission and daily life. Our rhythm of prayer, work and shared laughter creates a sacred space where God is truly present. 

In times of vulnerability, they listen without judgment and respond with compassion. When I grow weary or discouraged, they gently help me return to my center. Through their quiet strength and listening, I glimpse God's tenderness, a love that does not impose, but patiently invites me to deeper trust in God's providence.

Sr. Jean Fernandez, second from left, with Good Shepherd Sisters representing Korea, Malaysia and Singapore, celebrating the gift of global sisterhood (Courtesy of Jean Fernandez)

Beyond this circle, I am grateful for the global sisterhood that surrounds me. As part of an international congregation, I've formed bonds with my sisters and mission partners across the world. Despite cultural differences, we find unity in shared meals, stories and dreams. 

In these encounters, I sense the beauty of communion, a foretaste of the church's universality. Our friendships teach me that the kingdom of God is not only built through liturgy and prayer, but also through presence, hospitality and the courageous embrace of difference.

I also treasure my weekly walks with a dear friend. As we move through familiar paths at day's end, we talk about life or simply remain in companionable silence. In these moments, I often sense the nearness of God, as though the Good Shepherd walks quietly beside us. Her calm presence reminds me that walking together relieves tension and nurtures self-care.

Then there is my long-distance friend, with whom I connect weekly over Zoom. Despite time zones and physical absence, our shared prayer and heartfelt conversations have become a sanctuary of trust and grace. These virtual gatherings remind me that God's love knows no boundaries, and neither does spiritual friendship.

Each friend in my life reveals a facet of God's love: merciful, faithful and kind. Their friendship shapes who I am becoming in God. Through them, I am reminded that I am never alone. We walk together, one flock, one Shepherd, always led and drawn by Love

Good Shepherd Sr. Jean Fernandez, left, takes a walk with a friend to enjoy a bit of nature. (Courtesy of Jean Fernandez)

Sr Jean Fernandez wrote this article for Global Sisters Report.

"This is the 3rd reflection I did for GSR" Sr Jean Fernandez, 6 August 2025