By Sr. Myriam Theresa Như Trang, Unit Link Communicator, Vietnam (Province of East Asia)
Across four communities in Vietnam, Good Shepherd summer programs provided children with safe spaces to learn, play, form friendships, and flourish.
As the three-month summer break from school draws to a close in Vietnam, the joyful laughter of children, the spirit of friendship, and countless precious memories continue to echo throughout the Good Shepherd communities of Gia Lai Highlands, Ca Mau, Vinh Loc B, and Ba Ria.
Whilst the summer offers time for rest, it can also become a period of isolation and risk, especially for children from families in vulnerable circumstances who may spend long hours on mobile phones or have limited access to safe and meaningful activities.
Inspired by our mission of compassionate care, our sisters organized month-long summer programs, creating safe and nurturing spaces where children could learn, play, and grow together. Throughout the programs, children participated in educational activities, life-skills training, child-safety awareness, teamwork and leadership exercises, sports, creative games, and opportunities to form friendships.
This summer, instead of spending their days scrolling on screens, children played football and chess, created art and—most importantly—joined hands as they laughed, learned, and discovered the joy of community. Every playground became a place of hope. Every smile encouraged the sisters, partners-in-mission, and volunteers, while grateful parents were reassured that their children were spending their holidays in a safe and caring environment.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the programs was the generous involvement of high school and university student volunteers. These young people dedicated their time and talents to leading small groups, facilitating games, sharing knowledge, and mentoring younger children. Through serving others, they also developed confidence, leadership, and communication skills, and a deeper sense of social responsibility.
Behind every successful activity were many generous hearts. Volunteers, collaborators, benefactors, and supporters contributed financial assistance, educational materials, sports equipment, meals, and countless acts of kindness. Their generosity provided the children with practical and emotional support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging within a loving community.
Our sisters in Vietnam recognize that the needs of children in vulnerable circumstances remain immense. Yet every small act of love, every volunteer’s smile, every donation, and every shared moment become a seed of hope planted in a child’s life. Together, these seeds help children grow in confidence, dignity, resilience, and hope for a brighter future.
As the summer programs conclude, our mission continues. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every volunteer, collaborator, benefactor, and friend who joined our Good Shepherd mission and made these programs possible. Your generosity transformed ordinary summer days into meaningful experiences that will remain in the hearts of many children for years to come.
We sincerely hope that these programs will continue year after year, allowing even more children to experience safe spaces, joyful learning, loving relationships, and opportunities to flourish with dignity and hope.
Everything is God’s grace.
