Our Ministry

As I recently shared, we have been called by God to adopt a child and to engage in adoption ministry. We do not use the term “ministry” to describe the process of adding to our family, nor do we use it to refer to a formal program. In its purest sense, ministry is the act of serving. In Christian circles, it is also defined as pointing others to Jesus…witnessing, serving and realizing the kingdom of God on earth.

To understand our role in the kingdom, it is helpful to broaden our terms. Everyday life is where real ministry takes place, where we make an impact on others. The faithful Christian lives not only for self and family, but also for neighbor and community. There, we become Christ to others, bestowing the love, acceptance, and forgiveness we have experienced in Him. We minister to our spouse and our children just as we do our neighbor or a stranger.

The Bible portrays the church as a body with every part essential and valuable. There are different functions within the body of Christ, but not higher and lower status. We are all called to the "work of ministry" (Ephesians 4:12). And we are all called to serve.

Wade and I are committed to adopting a child into our family and giving him or her the same love, affection and opportunities we give Liliana. Yes, there are sacrifices involved, but none that make us extraordinary or special. All parents and spouses sacrifice on a daily basis. And we know that the sacrifices of parenting will pale in comparison to the blessings we receive. Adoption is a gift and a privilege—and a beautiful way to add to our family. However, it is not just a means to an end. It is much greater than that.

We consider adoption to be a personal mission and part of our family ministry. Our view does not diminish the love we will share with our adoptive child—or their role as a full and permanent member of our family. Rather, the term “ministry” speaks to our conviction to further the cause of adoption in our our community. While continuing to educate others, we also plan to expand the resources available to other families considering adoption. Further, we hope to help our church establish a formal adoption ministry that will live on for generations.

Ministry can take many forms...and for us, it's about giving. It is listening with your heart, hearing the call, and answering with a lifetime of service.

In His grip,
Ramona