To Promote Awareness of Christian Adoption and Fostering Needs

To Promote Awareness of Christian Adoption and Fostering Needs

RESOLUTION 3-02 Overture 3-01 (CW, 299)

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

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

WHEREAS, In the United States, The Synod, her congregations, and recognized service organizations (RSOs) have especially exemplified these concerns and embodied this mercy; and

WHEREAS, Some 117,000 children nationwide are awaiting families and homes through adoption this year

(www.adoptuskids.org/meet-the-children/children-in-foster-care/about-the-children, accessed May 30, 2026); 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 Synod in convention, 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 recognize and commend 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 Synod in convention encourage our Synod and district 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 Synod in convention recognize and commend the RSOs engaged in these services with our prayers, our advocacy, and our contributions to further their labors among us and on our behalf.