Woke up at 5:30am—and that alone felt like a battle won. I’m not a morning person by any stretch, but today marked the official start of Summer Camp, so I shook off the grogginess and took a quiet stroll around the hostel grounds. The early light, the stillness... it calmed me.
The day began with a hearty bowl of pho, lovingly prepared by the Sisters. Their kindness never ceases to amaze me. After breakfast, our team took turns with dish duty—something small, but it rooted us in service right from the get-go.
Our first activity was a Welcome Concert by the students. Their energy lit up the entire hall. The Sister and Principal both gave beautiful speeches—gracious, warm, and deeply moving. As a gesture of hospitality, the children gifted us bundles of rice paddy, a symbol of prosperity in Vietnam. It was simple yet profoundly meaningful.
My first two classes were with the Kindergarten 1 and 2 kids. Since it’s my first mission trip, I told myself I’d mostly observe today. But of course... I didn’t stick to that plan. I ended up leading a class for the Kindergarten 2s, teaching them how to make clay pigs. I was so nervous at first—worried it might be too difficult or chaotic. But to my surprise, the kids were naturals! Watching their little hands shape pigs out of clay with such joy filled me with awe and relief.
By lunchtime, the kids were buzzing with energy. With 60 little ones and only six teachers, extra hands were definitely needed. We stepped in to help feed the children—and it turned out to be one of the most humbling experiences of the day. One little girl, in particular, clung to me every chance she got. Her hugs came freely, without question or condition. That kind of affection… it hits you deep.
After the kids’ lunch, we had ours with the Sisters. As always, their food wasn’t just nourishing—it was love on a plate. Their generosity continues to wrap around us like a warm blanket.
Our afternoon classes focused on dental hygiene. We taught the Kindergarten 1 and 2 children how to properly brush their teeth. They listened so intently and participated with such excitement. Each child received a toothbrush and toothpaste—tiny gifts that felt like seeds of health and self-care planted into their lives.
We ended the day with quiet reflection. Each of us shared moments that challenged, inspired, or touched us. These sessions always remind me that missions aren’t just about what we do—they’re about who we become.
Before dinner, we attended Vietnamese Mass. I didn’t understand the words, but I didn’t need to. The peace, the reverence—it all washed over me. God speaks in silence too.
Dinner was at a nearby restaurant, and it was a feast of laughter and good food. The chicken wings were hilariously tiny compared to what we’re used to in Singapore. But the prawn fritters? Oh, they gave my dad’s famous ones a serious run for their money!
To top it all off, today’s Gospel was the perfect closing to our first full mission day.
Gospel Reflection – Luke 10:1–12,17–20
Jesus sends out 72 disciples with nothing but faith and a mission: to bring peace, heal the sick, and proclaim that the Kingdom of God is near. Even when met with rejection, they are to continue with peace. Their joy in success is gently redirected—not towards power, but towards knowing their names are written in heaven.
Mission Reminder:
Go with faith. Offer peace. Heal with love. The mission is God’s—your “yes” is what matters most.
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