Adopted for Life is a rare book which connects the Biblical foundation of adoption and one family’s experience of adoption. Intertwined is the story of the author and his wife’s adoption of two young boys from Russia. The narrative is a Biblical explanation and reminder that all who believe in Christ Jesus were once spiritual orphans and have been adopted as God’s daughters and sons.
The author challenges individuals and the Church to consider how our own adoption into God’s family must make orphan care and adoption a priority.
This book does not stop with the challenge, but gives practical advice. From wise counsel on how to know if one should consider adoption, how to ask the uncomfortable adoption questions, how to navigate the adoption process, and an honest description of what it may mean to grow up adopted, the book is a transparent look from one who has experienced the realities of adopting.
For churches and the Christian community, this book is a call to make orphan ministry and adoption a priority as a reflection of love for God and and care for His people.
Considering Adoption is a part of Family Life’s HomeBuilders Parenting Series. It is a five-week small group Bible study for those considering adopting a child.
Intended for use within a group context, this study asks questions, suggests activities and lists Scriptures which help individuals think through the issues of adoption from God’s perspective, from deciding whether or not to adopt to actually starting the process.
Homework assignments for couples to be completed outside of group time encourage processing of information and personal application of the material.
If you are considering adoption or have adopted, you need to read The Whole Life Adoption Book. Chances are, you’ll want to read it again!
With an approach that is both realistic and optimistic, Schooler and Atwood address many of the topics related to adoption. Though they address issues to consider before adopting, most of the book’s focus is on parenting the adopted child.
Like an experienced coach, this book shares both research and examples which guide the reader through many aspects of parenting an adopted child. These include international and transracial adoption issues, special needs adoptions, the child’s need to search for biological family and the impact of trauma on a child’s development.
At each stage, the authors encourage honest communication about the child’s adoption and birth family and recommend practical ways to foster attachment within the adoptive family.
Each chapter closes with summary, take-away thoughts and questions for small group discussion (which can, of course, be used for personal reflection as well).
This book is one to own, as different chapters will be relevant in different seasons of life.
An adoptee and adoptive mother, Jorie Kincaid brings personal experience as well as research to her writing of Adopting for Good.
This guide for those considering adopting begins by addressing many of the related ethical and philosophical questions. What is my motivation for adopting? What if my spouse is less eager to adopt? Is this God’s plan? What’s the difference between adoption expense and black market selling of babies?
It then walks the reader through a number of issues to consider before beginning the process. It helps the reader determine the best type of adoption for his or her situation: open or closed? International or domestic? Infant or older child?
The book wraps up with a section on parenting the adopted child. It coaches you through talking to your child about his adoption and reflects on our adoption as children of God.
Though this resource may not be revolutionary for those who’ve spent a lot of time around adoption, it can be a very helpful, optimistic read for those newly considering adopting. It is both practical and encouraging.
Review by April Jurgensen
Founder/Executive Director