To Promote Awareness of Christian Adoption and Fostering Needs

WHEREAS, Adoption figures prominently in Holy Scripture (Gal. 4:5) and the baptismal theology of salvation by grace in the Evangelical Lutheran Church; and

WHEREAS, Christians have a historical legacy of enacting this Gospel by undertaking and coordinating care for “orphans and widows in their affliction” (James 1:27); and

WHEREAS, Inthe United States,The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, her congregations, and affiliated para church organizations have especially exemplified these concerns and embodied this mercy; and

WHEREAS, Some 115,000 children nationwide are awaiting families and homes through adoption this year; and

WHEREAS, In many jurisdictions, state involvement in adoption imposes restrictions that result in a significant proportion of these children receiving placements in situations contrary to the Heavenly Father’s design and intention for sexuality and marriage and without regard for their eternal welfare; and

WHEREAS, The Synod in convention has not explicitly spoken about the connection of adoption to our doctrine and our vocation to serve these neighbors in need; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Indiana District, in grateful response to our own baptismal adoption as children of God through our Lord Jesus Christ, affirm our Christian privilege and responsibility to advocate and undertake protecting and providing for children awaiting adoption and fostering, particularly that they might enter His kingdom by baptism and belief in His saving name; and be it further

Resolved, That we encourage our district’s leaders and congregations to promote awareness of Christian adoption and fostering needs, agencies, and opportunities; and be it further

Resolved, That we recognize and commend Synod recognized service organizations (RSOs) engaged in these services with our prayers, our advocacy, and our contributions to further their labors among us and on our behalf; and be it further

Resolved, That the Indiana District in convention memorialize the Synod in convention to encourage our Synod leaders and congregations to promote awareness of Christian adoption and its Christ-pleasing benefits and promote awareness of Christian adoption and fostering needs, agencies, and opportunities; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Indiana District in convention memorialize the Synod in convention to recognize and commend the Synod RSOsengaged in these services with our prayers,our advocacy, and our contributions to further their labors among us and on our behalf.