Why adoption?

James 1:27
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

The Bible contains more than 40 scriptures that show God's concern and compassion for orphans. God's people then and God's people now must care for this neglected part of society. Adoption is the most loving and permanent way to care for these little ones. Psalm 68:5-6a says about God, "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families..." 

We believe Scripture has much to say about  the fatherless and the least of these. We want to be a part of God's plan for rescuing one little girl from an otherwise lonely life.  Adoption has always been a part of "our" family plan, but it has been a part of God's plan for our family. 

Questions we commonly are asked?
Why are you adopting internationally and not domestically?
    This choice is a very personal decision for any adoptive family.  We spent much time in prayer as well as hours researching adoption. In this process we felt God softening our hearts toward adopting internationally, specifically, Bulgaria.

How can you afford to adopt?
   We CANNOT.  Thankfully, this is not up to us alone.  We truly believe the often cliched phrase "Where God guides, He provides".  We have seen time and again how He has provided just what we've needed, monetarily and otherwise, just when it was needed.   Often this provision has been through the generosity of people just like you. 

What do your biological kids think about adoption?
   We have two boys who are truly thrilled about having a little sister.  When they speak about the future, they always include "her" and how she will fit into the scenario.   Make no mistake, it will be an adjustment for them too, but overall, they are very happy and anxious for her to be in our home.

What type of training do you have to do to adopt?
   Every agency and country are different on what they require for pre-adoption training.  We took seven on-line courses through Adoption Learning Partners, dealing with issues of bonding & attachment, grief & loss, behavior, special needs, cultural adjustments and more. In addition, our agency required and extensive workbook study.  While we are not the adoption gurus, we do feel this had helped us to be better prepared for our new addition.

Why Bulgaria?
   Again, this decision is unique and personal to each family.  We spent hours researching many different countries and their specific requirements.  Some we were able to eliminate based on their income requirements, other by their lengthy travel requirements. In narrowing down the possibilities, we found our hearts being drawn toward Bulgaria.

Where is Bulgaria?