Get Your Church Involved
The prospect of getting your church involved in adoption or orphan care ministry can be anything from very exciting to very overwhelming. The word of warning from Psalm 127:1, "Unless the Lord builds a house, its builders labor in vain..." cuts both ways. When we remember the "H", Hear from God, and the "O", Obey Him, from the H.O.P.E. ministry guidelines, we can move forward trusting in God's guidance, knowing that we are not laboring in vain. As you consider how to establish a ministry at your church, we recommend taking the time to follow these four steps:
1. EDUCATE YOURSELF
It is critical for those who want to establish an adoption or orphan care ministry to be as well-informed as possible from the outset. It is not necessary to become an expert before stepping out, but you could very well be the point person that people will look to for information and resources. Though you likely already have a wealth of information from your experiences and from the toolkit thus far, educating yourself is an ongoing process. As a committed “Bridge Builder,” you will have access via our website to a library of both informational and inspirational materials, from adoption guides to messages inspired by God through some of our world’s greatest Bible teachers.
2. ESTABLISH A CORE TEAM
Don’t go it alone—gather together with a few interested individuals and families in your church and local community who also have a heart for orphans and adoption. Talk with your church leadership to respectfully and prayerfully seek counsel and support. Be aware that there may be many people in your church whose lives have already been touched by adoption and orphan care. Begin by getting together for prayer, fellowship, and study, seeking a common vision for your ministry.
3. RAISE AWARENESS - CELEBRATE ADOPTION
The next step is to raise awareness in your church concerning orphans. One way to do this is by having your own Build a Bridge of Hope Adoption Sunday to celebrate God’s heart for orphans—adoption! Some of our affiliated churches have been successful in raising awareness and resources by dedicating a specific day to adoption. Historically, National Adoption Month is November, and National Adoption Day is celebrated the Saturday before Thanksgiving. The resources available on this site will help you present adoption to your community in a compelling way.
4. STEP OUT IN FAITH
Gather all those interested in adoption and orphan care and hold regular meetings for mutual inspiration, edification, and planning. Assess the needs in your spheres of influence, from your community to the far reaches of the world. Establish support for adoptive, foster, and kincare families in your church. Organize a church Missions Outreach to impact orphans and foster children with God’s love. Most importantly, be faithful to God’s leading and guidance. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” (Philippians 4:13)
As you move forward, we will continue to pray for you and those in your position, believing that as you trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, and as you acknowledge Him in all your ways, God will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5).
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