Based on the testimonies of Marymount Convent School educators Ms. Sabrina Kaur and Mr. Stan Lee, Singapore. Edited by Ms. Geraldine Roberts.
There are journeys that take us to new places, and there are journeys that lead us back to the source. For Marymount Convent School educators Ms. Sabrina Kaur and Mr. Stan Lee, Singapore, a pilgrimage to the Motherhouse in Angers, France, became an encounter with the origins of the Good Shepherd mission and the enduring legacies of St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier and St. John Eudes.
It is at the Motherhouse that generations of sisters, partners-in-mission and educators continue to draw inspiration from our founders’ shared vision of compassion, reconciliation and the unwavering belief that “One person is of more value than a whole world.” For educators serving in Good Shepherd schools today, visiting the Motherhouse offers a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of the charism and to reflect on how they can continue to bring Saint Mary Euphrasia’s mission to life in their own communities.
A Journey of Faith, Courage and Renewal
For Sabrina, the pilgrimage became a deeply personal and spiritual journey. Although she had long admired Saint Mary Euphrasia’s life, walking through the Motherhouse allowed her to encounter our foundress’ spirit in a much more profound way. The experience of walking through the labyrinth and standing at its center invited her to reflect on her own struggles, leading to the realization that the strength to face life’s challenges already resides within each of us when grounded in faith.
Another memorable experience was the tunnel walk. Choosing to move forward despite fear and darkness became a powerful reminder that growth often comes through courage and trust. Equally inspiring was witnessing the joyful commitment of the Good Shepherd sisters – both contemplative and apostolic – as well as partners-in-mission who faithfully continue our shared mission. Their lives of humble service renewed Sabrina’s belief that with trust in God, confidence in ourselves and support from others, we can overcome challenges and become more compassionate people.
Discovering Where a Great Story Began
For Stan, the pilgrimage offered a meaningful encounter with the roots of the Good Shepherd story.
Having joined Marymount Convent School only this year, he had learned about Saint Mary Euphrasia and Saint John Eudes through the school’s mission and values team. However, it was only by standing in Noirmoutier, at the humble birthplace of Rose Virginie Pelletier, that her story truly came alive. The simplicity of her childhood home reminded him that extraordinary legacies often begin in the most ordinary places.
One particularly moving moment came when he compared a photograph he had taken of Saint Mary Euphrasia’s birthplace with an older photograph displayed in the Motherhouse Museum. Despite the passing of many years, the building had changed very little. This simple comparison led him to a profound reflection that while buildings may withstand the passage of time, it is a person’s love, faith and service that leave an enduring impact on generations.
For Lee, as a teacher, Saint Mary Euphrasia’s words, “One person is of more value than a whole world,” took on renewed meaning. The pilgrimage reminded him that beyond lessons, assessments and results, every child possesses immeasurable dignity and potential. Every conversation, every encouragement and every act of kindness can shape a young life in ways that may never fully be seen. Although he comes from a different faith background, he found our foundress’ belief in the worth of every individual deeply inspiring and reaffirmed his calling to nurture each child entrusted to his care.
Living the Good Shepherd Mission
While Sabrina’s journey centered on spiritual renewal and inner transformation, Lee’s experience deepened his appreciation of our founders’ remarkable legacy and its relevance to education today. Together, their reflections beautifully illustrate that the Good Shepherd charism transcends cultures, religious backgrounds and personal experiences. Both returned to Singapore with renewed hearts, strengthened in their commitment to educate with compassion, courage and hope.
As Good Shepherd educators, their experience reminds us that the mission entrusted to Saint Mary Euphrasia continues to flourish, not only within the walls of the Motherhouse in Angers but in every classroom where educators choose to see the dignity, potential and worth of every child. This enduring legacy continues to inspire Good Shepherd communities around the world to be in the spirit of St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier and St. John Eudes: zealous and audacious in love and service.
