Esther Goh
Chaplain
"I have the privilege to bring comfort in life's most vulnerable moments."
I’m Esther, a chaplain at St Luke’s Hospital. My journey wasn’t straightforward – I transitioned from being a special needs teacher to serving patients in their most challenging times, driven by a strong belief in the value of every individual. Here, I’ve learned that healing often begins with simply listening.
Over the span of 11 years, I worked with children with multiple handicaps and autism. Then, after a mission trip rekindled my calling to serve, I found myself drawn to chaplaincy – a role where I could minister to those facing life’s most complex challenges.
My work in the wards has taught me that compassion speaks volumes, even in silence. I remember a woman in her 50’s who had recently lost her husband. During a routine assessment, she unexpectedly shared her grief – tears flowing as she described his sudden passing. When she finished, she remarked that as a total stranger, I had somehow provided her with a safe space to grieve freely.
Working in the palliative ward with patients facing end-of-life care requires a delicate touch. Many arrive already prepared for their journey, and their primary concerns are centred on potential suffering and leaving loved ones behind. My role is to provide comfort, to help families find closure, and to ensure patients feel supported and valued until their final moments.
I’ve learned that every patient is precious and unique. Their resilience continually amazes me. I remember a patient with a really big facial tumour on the side of his face. He could not talk properly or even swallow but he showed strength in the way he lives with this condition, maintaining dignity despite immense physical challenges. These patients teach me more about strength than I could ever teach them.
My care philosophy is rooted in respect and deep listening. Seeing each patient as inherently valuable, I try to avoid judgment and to approach every interaction with an open heart. Whether a patient is ready to talk or needs silent support, my goal is to create a space of genuine human connection.
What keeps me going? The knowledge that God is the ultimate Compassionate Carer and I am privileged and empowered to be His conduit of love and healing.
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