by Rosie Thandu
July 25, 2026, became a day that will forever remain etched in the hearts of Children of Faith. For the first time ever, we held an Alumni gathering, bringing together more than 120 of our children who had once called Children of Faith their home. Some of them we had not seen for more than ten years. And what a joy it was to see them again!
The little boys we remembered had grown into handsome young men, many with beards and mustaches, carrying themselves with confidence and maturity. The girls we remembered had grown into beautiful young women. Some were married, and two of our alumni even came with their little babies. To see them standing before us as adults, with families and lives of their own, was an emotional moment that words can hardly describe.
We began the day by getting to know one another again and sharing some of our favorite memories from the years at Children of Faith. One by one, memories began to come alive. There were stories about the mischievous moments, the games we played, the bunk beds, the late-night conversations, the singing and dancing, the performances, and the mission trips. As one person remembered something, another would suddenly say, “Oh yes, I remember that!” It felt as though the years disappeared for a moment.
The laughter brought back memories. The stories brought back faces. And before we knew it, we were all transported back to those days when these children were young and Children of Faith was their world.
We played games together and enjoyed simply being with one another again. One of the highlights was a fun “runway” walk for both the boys and girls. Everyone came dressed beautifully in formal attire, and, just for fun, we selected Mr. COF and Miss COF 2026. There was plenty of laughter, excitement, and cheering as everyone joined in.
We also wanted to make the day special for our alumni, so we hosted them to an extravagant meal at the Novotel in Visakhapatnam. Everyone came dressed up, and the beautiful buffet was enjoyed by all. It was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of these young men and women and the journey they had made.
From Children to Confident Adults
Perhaps one of the most amazing things about the day was simply looking at these young men and women and seeing the confident individuals they have become.
Their journeys have taken them in so many different directions. Some are working abroad in places such as Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi. Many others who could not attend because of where they are now living or working still sent their love and greetings. Though they could not physically be with us, they were very much a part of the celebration.
Among our alumni are nurses and others working in the medical field, including laboratories and pharmacy companies; engineers; software professionals; teachers; pastors; entrepreneurs; drivers; electricians; AC repair technicians; and business owners. Some are involved in cell phone businesses, printing, designing, and multimedia.
Jyoti has established her own business. Niharika is working as a software team leader. Monica is pursuing a chef degree, something she is grateful to have the opportunity to do. Each one has a different story, a different journey, and a different dream.
And then there was Raju. Raju shared how the English he learned at Children of Faith has helped him in his life, and he spoke with such pride about what he received during his years there. Hearing him say that something he learned as a child at COF continues to benefit him today was deeply encouraging.
Monica’s story was another beautiful reminder that the journey continues long after a child leaves COF. As she pursues her chef degree, she expressed her gratitude for the opportunities and foundation she received.
These were not simply stories about careers. They were stories about confidence, opportunity, character, and the lasting impact of what they received at Children of Faith. Many of our alumni told us that the English language skills they developed at COF have helped them in their education, careers, and everyday lives. But they also spoke about something deeper—the values they learned.
The lessons of discipline, responsibility, kindness, hard work, faith, and making wise decisions have stayed with them. Those values have continued to guide them as they have entered adulthood, built careers, formed families, and made important decisions in life.
That was perhaps one of the greatest joys of the reunion—not simply seeing what jobs they have, but seeing who they have become.
The Bittersweet Part of Letting Them Go
For those of us who have watched these children grow up, there is a very emotional side to seeing them leave Children of Faith. We remember the day they came to us. We watched them grow, learn, laugh, struggle, overcome, and dream. We invested our hearts in them. And then one day, they leave. We miss them. We miss them so much.
There were tears when we spoke about what it feels like to watch a child leave. There were worries and questions: How will they do? Will they be okay? Will they remember what they learned here? Will the years they spent with us make a difference?
But standing in that room on July 25th, looking at more than 120 alumni who had returned, we were reminded of something very important.
Even one day at Children of Faith can make an impact. One month can make an impact. One year can make an impact. And ten years can make an impact that lasts a lifetime.
The Alumni Reunion was a beautiful reminder that the seeds planted years ago continue to grow, even when we cannot see them. And perhaps that is what made July 25th so unforgettable. We did not just gather with our former students. We gathered with our children. Children who had grown up, found their place in the world, and come back to remind us that what God began at Children of Faith continues far beyond the years they spent under our roof.
We asked three of the alumni to tell you about the day and about their time at Children of Faith.
Help us Transform Lives
Seeing former Children of Faith children return as successful, caring adults is a powerful reminder that the love and support given at the Home is transformational. The friendships formed, the lessons learned, and the confidence gained during childhood become part of each child’s story—and those stories continue long after they leave the Home.
You can help write the next chapter. Your generosity gives children today the opportunity to grow up surrounded by love, receive an education, discover their potential, and build lives filled with hope and purpose. Please consider making a gift to Children of Faith. Together, we can create a legacy that lasts long after childhood and changes lives for generations to come.
