On Thursday, Dec. 9th the Women’s Transformation and Leadership ministry from the Reformed Church in America (RCA) in collaboration with the Vellore Christian Medical College (CMC) Foundation held a virtual celebration entitled “Rekindle: Sisterships in Mission”. The RCA Women’s Leadership group including Reverend Liz Testa, Coordinator for Women’s Transformation and Leadership, helped to design and host this global mission event for hope. The evening’s program highlighted the season of Advent, Dr. Ida Scudder’s 151st birthday, and CMC’s endeavor to construct a maternity hospital in the Jawadhi Hills region of south India.
The Foundation’s historic relationship with the RCA has evolved through the years and this event was yet another reminder of God’s empowerment for Dr. Ida Sophia Scudder. Aunt Ida was sent as a medical missionary through the Reformed Church in America more than 100 years ago, to establish the Christian Medical College and Hospital in Vellore, South India.
The evening’s festivities included music, prayer, interactive activities, fun giveaways, and engaging presentations from two global medical leaders, Dr. Ramya Raman and Dr. Anuradha Rose. Dr. Ramya Raman’s insightful message inspired participants as she spoke about women in leadership. Dr. Raman shared the profound influence that Aunt Ida’s testimony had on her personal life.
Dr. Anu Rose provided a unique perspective and opportunity to learn about the Jawadhi Hills maternity hospital complex, which is contemplated to include not just the hospital itself, but also a public health training center, dormitories, and chapel. Dr. Rose’s presentation made it possible for participants to travel virtually to the Jawadhi Hills and support the healing ministry of Christ through CMC in this project of compassion.
Reverend JP Sundararajan (Director of Global Mission, RCA) in a special video, spoke about adaptive leadership and Dr. Ida Scudder’s legacy. Throughout the evening, all were encouraged to “Rekindle the gift of God within” and celebrate God’s calling in each individual life!
