Christian Adoption Agencies

Licensed Christian adoption agencies operate according to Christian principles. Their practices and policies are rooted in Christian teachings, and their beliefs inform how they serve adoptive families and expectant parents alike.

How Are Faith-Based Agencies Different? 

Christian adoption agencies typically emphasize pro-life values, taking the stance that life begins at conception. Many define marriage as a commitment between one man and woman. As a result some faith-based adoption agencies do not permit single people or LGBTQ+ individuals to adopt. 

Shared Faith and Values 

Christian families who choose a faith-based adoption agency can feel secure knowing that they’re working with others who share their most important beliefs. That means receiving support from professionals who acknowledge the spiritual as well as the practical aspects of the adoption journey. Christian agencies often provide faith-based post-adoption care, along with a wider community that includes pastoral figures and church congregations.

Requirements for Adoptive Parents 

Faith-based adoption agencies typically maintain more requirements for adoptive parents than secular agencies. Prospective parents are usually expected to be practicing Christians. They may be expected to prove this by providing a written statement of faith or testimony. They may also need to provide a reference letter from their pastor or church leader, stating that they are believers and church members in good standing.

Some agencies operate according to a certain code regarding who can adopt. They may require couples to sign a statement stating that they agree with these principles.

Services for Expectant Parents 

Secular and faith-based adoption agencies alike typically provide a variety of services for expectant parents, such as options counseling and post-adoption support. However, many Christian agencies offer additional services, such as spiritual counseling, and some may provide support for single mothers who choose to raise their child. Some also help cover costs like medical care and housing or legal help. These services are available to all birth mothers, regardless of their religion. 

Questions to Ask a Christian Adoption Agency 

Finding a Christian adoption agency that's right for you is a journey in itself. Asking some key questions can make the process a little easier.  

Questions About Faith Requirements 

• "Do you require adoptive parents to be members of a certain faith or church?"
• "Are prospective parents expected to provide a statement of faith?"
• "How does your faith influence your policies on who may or may not adopt?"
• "Do you allow singles to adopt, or are parents required to be married?"
• "Are married couples expected to have been married for a certain amount of time before they can adopt?"
• "Do you require a reference letter from a pastor or priest?"

Questions About Services and Support 

• "How do you support birth mothers who may not share your faith?"
• "Do you provide post-placement counseling? If so, is it faith based?"
• "Does your agency sponsor open, semi-open, or closed adoptions?"
• "Are options counselors available for birth mothers who are unsure about adoption?"
• "Do you offer faith-based home study services?"
• "Does your agency arrange international or domestic adoptions, or both?"

Finding the Right Agency for Your Family 

The path to adoption can be challenging at times—full of intense emotions and unique experiences. However, you don't have to walk it alone. Finding a Christian adoption agency that shares your beliefs and values is a true blessing.

A Note on Licensing and Ethics 

Just because an agency bills itself as a Christian organization doesn't automatically mean its practices are ethical. Any Christian adoption agencies you're considering should hold full state licensure. It's essential to ensure that each agency maintains the highest ethical standards. 

Find a Christian Adoption Agency 

• International Christian Adoptions: Serves California and North Carolina
• Bethany Christian Services: Maintains locations in 29 U.S. states
• FaithBridge Adoption Services: Serves Georgia
• Christian Adoption Consultants: Facilitates adoptions nationwide, with offices in nine states
• Nightlight Christian Adoptions: Availability varies by service
• Agape Adoptions: Facilitates international adoptions nationwide
• Hope's Promise: Serves Colorado
• Faithful Adoption Consultants: Serves all states, except New York and New Jersey
• Flourish Adoption Ministries: Serves South Carolina
• Antioch Adoptions: Serves Washington and Arizona
• Cherish Children Adoption International: Serves Colorado, Florida, Wyoming, Georgia, and Texas
• Texas Christian Adoptions: Serves Texas
• Amazing Grace Adoptions: Licensed in Florida and North Carolina
• Spirit of Faith: Operates in the Cleveland, Columbus, and Toledo, Ohio areas
• Tapestry Adoption: Serves Indiana
• Abba Adoption: Serves Arkansas
• New Hope Adoption: Operates nationwide
• Finally Home Christian Adoption Services: Based in Florida
• Family Connections Christian Adoptions: Serves California
• Lifetree Adoption Agency: Serves Texas