The Next Step

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Sometimes persevering is simply taking the next step. February's seminar on caring for the orphan offered a wealth of resources to help you take that one step forward in caring for the vulnerable. Again, thanks to the Culture Impact Committee of College Church for putting together this seminar.

Light and Beauty

Before we list resources, read the short message eleven-year-old Ela Parker shared at the seminar that captures the light and beauty of adoption.

Whenever I hear the word "adoption," it means family to me. You have a new family when you get adopted. To me, adoption has two meanings:

1. To be adopted into God's family in heaven and to be with him forever in his presence. he is our Father in heaven. He loves us so much.

2. Another meaning adoption has for me is parents and siblings. More than just family and siblings . . . it's a family that cares who you are and they want to help you. they love you no matter what, even if you have a disability or something wrong with you. they still love you just as God loves you. they don't judge you the way other people might. They see light in you and beauty. God loves us so much he made each of us different in a good way.

This is what adoption means to me.

Ela Faith Parker (daughter of Mike and Sasha Parker)

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The Culture Impact Committee put together a list of books and websites to help you in this journey of caring for the orphans.

Books

  • Adopted for Life: The Priority of Adoption for Christian Families & Churches by Russell D. Moore
  • Becoming Home by Jedd Medefind
  • Orphanology: Awakening to Gospel-Centered Adoption and Orphan Care by Tony Merida and Rick Morton
  • A Passion for the Fatherless: Developing a God-Centered Ministry to Orphans by Daniel J. Bennett
  • Fields of the Fatherless by C. Thomas Davis
  • Forever Mom: What to Expect when You’re Adopting by Mary Ostyn
  • Reclaiming Adoption: Missional Living Through the Rediscovery of Abba Father Daniel Cruver, ed.
  • Hello, I Love You: Adventures in Adoptive Fatherhood by Ted Kluck
  • Helping Your Adopted Child: Understanding Your Child’s Unique Identity by Paul Tripp

Websites