India

In the early 1800’s, Dr. John Scudder became the first medical missionary to India from the US.

No one could foresee it at the time but the birth of Ida Sophia Scudder on December 9, 1870, would result in thousands or even millions of lives saved in India.

Foundation Board Member Renee Scudder delivered a moving tribute to Doctor Ida in a speech in New York.

Students at Walter Scudder Higher Secondary School worked for seven days to clean up and plant trees in a neighboring village.

Distance was no object when the missionary Scudders were building schools, churches, and hospitals in poor areas of southeast India. This map shows the distance between the four institu­tions founded and supported by Scudders that continue to this day.

SAF leaders recently visited India, celebrating the Vellore Diocese’s 50th anniversary and visiting institutions founded by Scudders. They witnessed inspiring dedication, progress, and urgent needs across hospitals and schools still deeply rooted in the mission of service to others.