Adoption

Adoption

Event
07/18/22

Embracing Family August Informational Luncheon

Location: A226
Start Time: Sun 7, Aug. 2022, 11:45 a.m.
End Time: Sun 7, Aug. 2022, 1:30 p.m.

Join other fostering or adoptive families for an informational meeting and a time of encouragement, support, and prayer. A light lunch will be provided for those attending. See details at the end.

 

“...even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will.” - Ephesians 1:4-5, ESV


Adoption is at the heart of the Christian life. As a people who were once lost, we have been adopted as sons and daughters into the family of God, given new hope and a new identity that has changed our lives forever. For families called to adoption or foster care, this reality takes on an even greater meaning as they open their hearts and homes to hurting and orphaned children.

The road isn’t easy, but it is joyful. Ministry coordinators Tim and Bonnie Warnky, who adopted their daughter Hannah, attest to the challenges, surprises, and blessings in their journey to parenthood. “[Seven years ago] we ended up getting a call for Hannah—and it was, ‘There’s a baby in the hospital—she was born yesterday. Would you be willing to adopt her?’” Tim recounted. 

“Ours was an unusual adoption in that all the details were arranged after the baby’s birth,” said Bonnie. “They called and said that she was a day old and asked if we could let them know, but that we had about five minutes to make the decision and be on our way. We said, ‘Yes!’ and we drove to Akron and called our families to let them know we were going to meet our daughter.” 

For each family adopting or fostering, the circumstances may be unique, but the challenges are often similar. Participants in our Embracing Family Ministry offer support to one another through a myriad of practical and spiritual ways, sometimes caring for one another’s children or making meals, or at other times providing knowledge, encouragement, counsel, and prayer. "Parenting isn't easy, ever," said Tim, "but with adoption and fostering there come a unique set of challenges. The support of like-minded families is key." 

On Sunday, August 7, at 11:45am in Room A226, we invite you to hear more from Bonnie and Tim about their adoption process, as well as hear from others about the fostering process. You’ll learn how—if you are considering either option—you might begin the process. 

If you plan to attend, please RSVP to Bonnie Warnky.