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Illuminating the "Healing Ministry of Christ" through CMC Vellore
A PUBLICATION OF THE VELLORE CMC FOUNDATION
TENTH EDITION | DECEMBER 2025
IN THIS ISSUE: MINISTRIES OF EDUCATION: EDUCATING FOR MISSION AND SERVICE - 1
MINISTRIES OF EDUCATION: EDUCATING FOR MISSION AND SERVICE
DEVOTIONAL - 1
Faith-Ann A. McGarrell, PhD, Department of Ed., General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
INAUGURAL EDISON TO INDIA 5K DASH-OR-DALLY: “MORE THAN JUST A RACE” - 4 PARTNERSHIPS FOUNDED IN THE GOSPEL - 5
Roy’s Story Roy Israel grew up in the small community of Friendship Village in Guyana, South America. His father, Oscar, was a coconut farmer and village councilman, and his mother, Irene, was a homemaker. Roy’s family were Seventh-day Adventists, and every Saturday, along with his parents and three siblings, he attended church. And, without fail, every Monday morning, Roy’s classmates would tease him. They called him “Sabbath Boy.” One Friday afternoon, after a tough day in school, Roy told his father, “I am not going back to school. I will work on the farm or find a job doing something else.” Upon hearing Roy’s account of how the other children teased him and the teacher’s unresponsiveness to Roy’s plight, Oscar quietly said, “On Monday, we will travel to Georgetown [the capital city] and you will live with your Aunt Marie and attend the Adventist school.” Leaving his village was difficult, but with his family’s support, Roy settled into the new school. His experience is like that of hundreds and thousands whose lives are redirected and transformed by the ministry of Adventist Christian education. A Vision for the Future The ministry of Adventist education corresponds with the growth of the Seventh-day Adventist church. The earliest Adventist school opened on December 16, 1863, in Bucks Bridge, New York, with 17 students,1 and in May of that www.vellorecmc.org
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REFLECTIONS ON CMC VELLORE’S CONSULTATION 2025 CONCLAVE - 3
A LEGACY OF COMPASSION: THE STORY OF CMC VELLORE & ITS FOUNDER, DR. IDA SCUDDER - 6
DEVOTIONAL “God is With Us” D. Mitchell Ford, Pastor In Residence, The Protestant Church In Oman
This season of the year lays bare some of our deepest feelings and raw emotions. Our thoughts are often all over the place while our hearts tremble with anxiety, turmoil and trepidation due to the possibility of facing what we perceive as uncomfortable circumstances with certain individuals. However, during the season of Christmas, we are often helpless to stop others from being invited to common gatherings for the season’s celebrations. It creates angst and turbulence for some, depresses and discombobulates others. These feelings force us to confront ourselves, consider our internal and external conflicts and come to some conclusion about how to move forward. The Good News for those of us who are believers is that we have the promise of Scripture spoken to Joseph as he pondered the dilemma with his fiancée, found pregnant before their marriage and its consummation. “Joseph, to who she was engaged, was a righteous man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, “Joseph, son of David,” the angel said, “do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. All this occurred to fulfill the Lord’s message through the prophet: Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is With us.’” Matthew 1:19 - 23 NLT
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year, the Adventist Church was officially organized. The mission to go into all the world fueled the need for a trained workforce to fulfill the Matthew 28 Commission to “Go and make disciples.” Early Church pioneers wrestled with how to train these workers and what true Christian education should include. Bible study, prayer, and reflection reassured them of several foundational beliefs. Christian education should point to God, the Creator, the one in whose image all humans are created (Genesis 1-2). Derailed by sin, humanity experienced separation from God (Genesis 3:8; Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23). But God, through Christ’s sacrifice, reclaimed humanity (Romans 5:8; 1 Peter 2:24; 2 Corinthians 5:21) and will one day restore and renew the earth (Revelation 21:1-5). Embedded in education for mission and service should be the invitation to choose Christ (John 3:16-17; Matthew 28:19-20). Ellen G. White, a church founder, began writing articles about the need for an education grounded in these biblical truths and built on a holistic model—one that trained the head, the heart, and the hand, and prepared learners for lives of service. From her writings, several principles are now considered foundational to the ministry of Adventist education: learners must be thinkers, exercising original thoughts; education and redemption are one; a holistic education prepares students for service; education must develop character and prepare students for eternity.
Devotional Continued...
Regardless of what emotions and memories the season stirs, we can rest assured that God’s promise is true, “God is with us!” Joseph had to wrestle with thoughts of distrust and feelings of betrayal, but ultimately learned that while he was considering these, God was conceiving something beyond his understanding and comprehension. Perhaps, God has a purpose for the dilemma or predicament you find yourself facing also. Know this, you don’t have to face it alone, “God is with us” As the Gospel of Matthew starts with the promise of Immanuel, so it ends in its final chapter, “Lo, I will be with you always!”
A Legacy of Service Attending that small Adventist school in Georgetown, Guyana, changed the trajectory of Roy’s life. He developed a personal relationship with God and subsequently dedicated 45 years of ministry in Guyana, Trinidad, and the United States, first as a teacher and principal, then as a minister, and later as a university professor and educational administrator. Roy was my father, and because of his experience, his children and all those entrusted to his care experienced the ministry of Adventist education. Our churches, schools, and institutions of healing are called to be places where those seeking knowledge can not only find opportunities for service and mission but can also be transformed by the One who declares "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This, indeed, is the ministry of Christian education.
THE YOUNG REVEREND ROY ISRAEL
Keeping the Mission Alive These ideals guide the General Conference Department of Education in coordinating, promoting, training, and ensuring the quality of the global Seventh-day Adventist educational system, in which 120,485 teachers reach more than 2 million students in 10,364 schools, preparing them for service and mission. Eight medical schools, five dental schools, and 92 schools of nursing prepare global missionaries in health care. These institutions work in partnership with 244 hospitals and sanitariums worldwide, as well as several medical clinics, dispensaries, and nursing and retirement homes. These partnerships also include a long-standing relationship with Christian Medical College and Hospital in Vellore, one that has lasted for 75 years. Built on the values of its founder, Dr. Ida Scudder, CMC has helped train Adventist doctors, dentists, and other medical professionals who are servant leaders committed to advancing the mission of Christian service through “the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.” www.vellorecmc.org
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REFLECTIONS ON CMC VELLORE’S CONSULTATION 2025 CONCLAVE Raj K. Narayan, MD (CMC Batch of 1969), Chair, Board of Directors, Vellore CMC Foundation
The past few months have been a time of reflection and renewal for all of us connected to CMC. This September, John Riehl and I had the privilege of attending Consultation 2025 in Vellore—a once-in-a-decade conclave that brought together over 3,000 participants across all levels of CMC’s vast community to chart the course for the next ten years. The week-long Consultation (September 21–25) was far more than a planning exercise. It was an opportunity to pause, reimagine, and reaffirm the values that define CMC: service with compassion and excellence. Reaffirming CMC’s Calling The sessions reminded us that CMC is called to embody faith in action. From its very inception, CMC has resisted the commercialization of medicine, focusing instead on patient-centered, ethical care. Many participants urged CMC not to change their long-standing policy of not incentivizing doctors based on “productivity”. They believe that this is what sets CMC apart from the rest. Themes for the Decade Ahead Over five days, the Consultation explored 18 domains, from theology and education to finance, infrastructure, and governance. On day 3, John Riehl presented during the Community Impact Domain, emphasizing the Foundation’s role in connecting CMC with supporters and alumni worldwide. Growth and Gratitude Today, CMC’s presence spans multiple campuses and more than 4,000 beds—a testament to its growth and enduring relevance. The new Ranipet Campus continues to flourish, with a new Children’s Hospital funded by Prem Watsa
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“THE WEEK-LONG CONSULTATION WAS FAR MORE THAN A PLANNING EXERCISE. IT WAS AN OPPORTUNITY TO PAUSE, REIMAGINE, AND REAFFIRM THE VALUES THAT DEFINE CMC: SERVICE WITH COMPASSION AND EXCELLENCE.” Fairfax Financial Holdings and the Ajit Isaac Foundation set for completion in the 4th quarter of 2026. Meanwhile, the Chittoor Campus is expanding through another very generous ₹500 crore contribution from the Azim Premji Foundation, inspired by the selfless service of CMC graduates in remote parts of the country during the COVID pandemic. CMC – The Ultimate Teaching Institution We remain grateful for the remarkable education that each of us has received at our alma mater. Despite being ranked as one of the top medical schools in the country, CMC provides education at virtually no cost to doctors, nurses and allied health professionals – very different from most other institutions in India. With my recent visit to Vellore, I was again reminded of what a very special place it was and remains to this day. The people, the place and the institution will always be a vital part of who we are. The Conclave focused on the importance of process as well as CMC’s mission and deliverables. Consultation 2025 produced a new vision of cohesion, synergy, and prayerful alignment – a testament to CMC’s Christian identity. Dr. Ida Scudder was known to say, “We are not building a medical school but the Kingdom of God”. This important event brought together a CMC fellowship from seven expansive campuses. A network of institutions that evolved by God’s grace from one single room! Abiding grace which inspires a response to our calling. A calling to create movements above monuments, to serve the margins and to guide our focus towards our Creator.
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INAUGURAL EDISON TO INDIA 5K DASH-OR-DALLY: “MORE THAN JUST A RACE” Deepika Srivastava, Director of Church Relations Vellore Christian Medical College Foundation
“On your marks, get set, GO!” The faithful convened on a glorious sunlit September morning in Edison, NJ for the Vellore CMC Foundation’s 5K fun run/walk – the Edison to India 5K Dash-or-Dally. This special event brought together communities from Edison and surrounding areas with a unique call. A call to promote health and celebrate community! One hundred and twenty-four energetic walkers and runners excitedly gathered on the grounds of New Dover United Methodist Church, transforming this inaugural 5K into a true fellowship of shared ministry. Community Leaders and Local Pride We were honored to welcome Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, who offered words of encouragement, and Edison Chamber of Commerce President Joe Coyle, who joined in support of this charitable cause. The Edison Police Department ensured the safety of each person. Their presence, along with the enthusiastic participation of families, neighbors, and friends, reflected the very heart of Edison. Inspiring Participation Participants ranged in age from 4 to 82, embodying inclusiveness and encouragement at every stride. Among the standouts were 37-year-old Korbone Fong, an avid marathoner, 82-year-old Judy, who inspired everyone by proudly crossing the Dash-or-Dally finish line with her walker, and 7-year-old Athena who confidently completed the 5K with her parents! These moments captured the spirit of perseverance and community that defined the day.
Vellore CMC Foundation 5K Planning Committee
We are thankful for the meaningful collaboration provided by Pastor Chuck Coblentz and the members of the New Dover United Methodist Church. Tireless efforts of Pastors and congregants of local United Methodist Churches, the Asian Indian Christian Church and the Reformed Church of Metuchen, helped ensure a well-executed event. Enduring Partnerships with a Shared Commitment We are eternally grateful for our historic relationship with the Faith-based community in the United States. The United Methodist Foundation and the Reformed Church in America (RCA), along with the RCA Women’s Leadership team and NYC based Bethany Memorial Reformed Church joined in this strategic initiative. Their generous support and sponsorship created opportunities for greater participation and impact. CMC Founder Dr. Ida Sophia Scudder once said, “Only when you see the invisible can you achieve the impossible”, pointing to the fact that only through God all things are made possible (Matthew 19:26). The Edison to India 5K Dash-or-Dally was more than just a race—it was a commemoration made possible through partnership, purpose, and a united commitment to building a healthier tomorrow.
Powered by Local Support The event was made possible thanks to the generosity of our donors and twenty-one Edison-area businesses, whose sponsorship and support helped raise an impressive $50,000 to help support the healthcare needs of South India’s impoverished women and children. These funds will advance access to quality healthcare for South India’s underserved communities through the vital outreach programs orchestrated by CMC Vellore. www.vellorecmc.org
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“THE EDISON TO INDIA 5K DASH-OR-DALLY WAS MORE THAN JUST A RACE—IT WAS A COMMEMORATION MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH PARTNERSHIP, PURPOSE, AND A UNITED COMMITMENT TO BUILDING A HEALTHIER TOMORROW.”
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PARTNERSHIPS FOUNDED IN THE GOSPEL By Reverend Kamalesh Stephen Senior Pastor, Asian Indian Christian Church
There are a few things we pondered and considered as we partnered with others to make an impact in God’s created order. First, we reminded ourselves that the church exists not only to serve the needs of the people who worship in it, but also to the community outside the church. Second, the presence of the Asian Indian Christian Church in the town of Berkeley Heights, New Jersey, is not by chance but carefully orchestrated by the grand Weaver. Finally, diaspora Christian communities in the United States gravitate towards meeting the needs of the people in their country of origin and seldom get involved in the life of the local community. We realized that we are no exception to this approach. After much wrestling, we did two things: 1) Apportioned our mission budget to meet the financial needs of those both locally and globally, and 2) Intentionally participated in outreach programs that cater to the poor and the underserved in our surrounding neighborhoods. We rallied the support of the congregational members, and they responded willingly and graciously. The community of Plainfield, a 10-minute drive from the church, has 21.2% of its population living below the poverty line, according to local data. This is higher than the national average of 12.3%. Children in these communities have limited access to free or low-cost school breakfasts and lunches during the summer months. How are we to be the hands and feet of Jesus to a nearby community in dire need without overlooking the necessities of the marginalized in India? Here are some ways we responded to God ordained priorities in supporting and celebrating our neighboring communities while also serving globally. Our Thanksgiving and Christmas mission endeavors have ensured 100 baskets annually through packing and distribution to the impoverished in nearby areas. Our food pantry ministries have been greatly appreciated, bringing letters of commendation from Mayors of 2 local Townships! The younger generation is also carrying on the torch of service through their own special ministry of packing 100 backpacks for children in foster care before the start of the school year. In addition, teens and families from church participated in the “Crop Walk”, which raises money to feed www.vellorecmc.org
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the hungry in the disadvantaged neighborhoods of New Jersey and beyond. The point is this: often immigrant faith families especially churches, are portrayed as “commuting” groups gathering for worship and heading back to their homes with no outreach to local needs. Instead, we want to be a church that deeply cares for the requirements of our neighbors. We are a small community of believers, but with a generous heart, a caring attitude, and a deep-seated passion that affirms this phrase: “May our heart be broken with the things that break the heart of God.” Globally, we did not want to limit ourselves to mission partners who are involved in sharing the gospel through evangelism alone. We chose partners who also meet the needs of the whole person. Our engagement with the Vellore Christian Medical College Foundation, a relationship that we cherish deeply, brought the church family together to participate in the Edison to India 5K Dash-or-Dally event. Church congregants supported the 5K through significant fundraising, volunteering and enthusiastic participation! We also partner with ministries that work with the nomadic communities in the rural parts of Tamil Nadu and in the rehabilitation of prison inmates. In addition, we joined hands with a mission agency that meets the educational needs of children in North India. We did not limit our mission partners to India but also supported church development in Myanmar. In the words of the apostle Paul in Philippians 1:4, “In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy” and our church is grateful for our partnerships in the gospel. In closing, TRANSFORMING
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campus—a testament to its growing influence. when we look at the overwhelming needs of the world and the limited resources in our hands, we tend to operate out Today, CMC Vellore is a global leader in healthcare and in of scarcity instead of generosity. However, we are education. It operates more than 4,000 beds across its reminded time and time again that our limited resources in | Vellore, Ranipet, Chittoor, and other satellite campuses, | the hands of a mighty God are more than sufficient to meet |trains thousands of doctors and nurses, and serves over 4 the needs of the world! Our task is to offer our gifts and see million patients annually, many of whom receive care God at work in and through them. regardless of their ability to pay.
A LEGACY OF COMPASSION: THE STORY OF CMC VELLORE & DR. IDA SCUDDER Ida was born in 1870 in southern India, into a family of American medical missionaries. Her grandfather, father, uncles, and brothers had all served in India, but Ida had no intention of following in their footsteps. Everything changed when she returned to India at age 19 to care for her ailing mother. One night, three men came to her door— each pleading for help for their wives in childbirth. About that very night, Ida would later write, “It was as if God was calling me to become a doctor and go back to India.” She did not shy away from this belief. She returned to the U.S., enrolled in medical school, and graduated from Cornell Medical College in 1899—the first woman to do so. Armed with her degree and a deep sense of purpose, she went back to India and opened a one-room clinic in Vellore in 1900. Within two years, she had treated thousands of patients. In 1902, she founded the Mary Taber Schell Memorial Hospital, a 40-bed facility that quickly became a lifeline for women and children. She traveled to remote villages in bullock carts, bringing medical care to those who had never before seen a doctor. But she didn’t stop there.
Ida Scudder’s work earned her international recognition. In 1952, she received the Elizabeth Blackwell Citation as one of the five most outstanding women doctors in the world. When she passed away in 1960, India’s President Rajendra Prasad called her “a great lady, whose dedication and planned working are exemplary.” But perhaps her greatest legacy is the spirit of service she instilled in generations of healthcare professionals. CMC graduates are known not just for their clinical excellence, but for their commitment to compassionate care, especially for the underserved. Ida Scudder’s story reminds us that one person’s courage and compassion can change the world. She didn’t just treat patients—she built institutions, empowered women, and challenged cultural barriers. She turned tragedy into hope. So today, as we reflect on her legacy, let us ask ourselves: What can we do to carry forward her vision? How can we use our skills, our resources, and our hearts to serve others? Because from a one-bed clinic in 1900 to a world-class institution today, Christian Medical College Vellore stands as a testament to what’s possible when we lead with love, faith, and determination.
She believed that lasting change required education. In 1918, she founded south India’s first medical school for women. That first year, she received 151 applications— proof that women were ready to lead in medicine. Over time, the school expanded to include men, and in 1942, it became a full-fledged MBBS program. She also pioneered nursing education, establishing India’s first College of Nursing in 1946. Today, the nursing college at CMC is a WHO collaborating center and a model for nursing programs across all of Asia. Under Ida’s leadership, CMC Vellore grew from a one-bed clinic into a sprawling medical institution. In 1928, she acquired land for her college campus, which now houses one of the most respected medical colleges in India and the world. That same year, Mahatma Gandhi visited the www.vellorecmc.org
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