Open Hearts Open Homes Ministry

Would you like to offer respite to a church family?

2012-01-23T11:43:00.000-08:00

We are always looking for ways for the body of Christ to walk beside those families in our midst that are caring for foster children in their homes. Here is a simple way to learn more about offering respite for a foster child/ren in our church family without having a foster care license.

Family Core is offering a one-night class that will help you understand, in a compact form, the unique pieces of caring for a foster child so a foster family can have a break.

Respite Information Classes

Thursday, February 16, 2012

6-9pm

Place: Family Core offices, 330 SW Washington St., Peoria

To sign-up call: Tina Frier at Family Core - 676-2400.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact the following:

Amy @ levisix@frontier.com or Lisa @ schwarz8@mtco.com

Connecting Hearts with the Forgotten Conference

2012-01-14T19:12:00.000-08:00

Check out this wonderful adoption and orphan care conference for FREE!

Connecting Hearts with the Forgotten exists to help people capture the heart of God for the fatherless in our own backyard and across the world. You will find resources for fostering, adoption, post-adoption and orphan care.

Bethany Fellowship of Churches' own Daniel Bennett and Jerry Sanderson will be participating!

Date: Saturday, February 25, 2012

Time: 8:30am - 2:30pm

Place: East White Oak Bible Church, 11922 E 2000 North Rd., Carlock, IL

This conference is hosted by several Bloomington-Normal churches.

Check out the website at: http://www.connectingheartsconference.org/

Ministry Opportunity helping Foster Parents

2012-01-14T19:06:00.000-08:00

We have been made aware of a need from The Forgotten Initiative.

Need: Family Core is looking for 3-4 childcare providers to volunteer during their foster care support group meetings once a month. They meet the 2nd Thursday of each month from 6-8pm.

This would be a great way for people interested in becoming foster parents to get a "taste" of working with foster parents and children.

To find out more about this opportunity contact: Jill at jill@theforgotteninitiative.org

January Focused Fellowship

2012-01-14T19:02:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Ladies!

Our first Focused Fellowship of the New Year!

Monday, January 16, 2012

7pm

Home of Monica Lonergan

No need to RSVP, come if you can, even if it's the last minute!

Why do we meet? To encourage, build up, and pray for each other as we go through the journeys of foster and/or adoption. It doesn't matter how far into the process you are please join us as we share how the Lord is working in our families.

Any questions? email Amy - levisix@frontier.com

December Focused Fellowship

2011-12-18T16:57:00.000-08:00

Hi ladies!

Let's do our holidays refreshed after we meet together for some Focused Fellowship!

Monday, December 19, 2011

7:00pm

Monica's home, 1111 W. Burnside Dr.

Questions: Amy @ levisix@frontier.com

No need to RSVP just simply show up! Bring a treat to share if you'd like. Hope to see you there!

Welcome Home Hannah!

2011-12-13T20:02:00.000-08:00

Welcome Home Hannah!

We are so excited to have this family all together!

Congratulations to

Philip and Charisa

and

big sister

Sierra

and big brothers

Corban and Ian!

Remember to continue to pray for this family as they get to know each other.

"Great is your love , higher than the heavens ; your faithfulness reaches to the skies."

Psalm 108:4

Foster Parent - Pride Training Host Site

2011-12-06T12:04:00.000-08:00

In keeping with the desire of the Open Hearts, Open Homes Orphan Ministry to encourage families in the area of foster care we are a hosting site for PRIDE classes beginning February 2012. These classes are required of both spouses for a family to become licensed for foster care.

To begin the process of becoming a foster parent you first need to choose a local agency to work through. The following are the more known agencies in our area:

Children’s Home 309- 685-1047

DCFS 309-671-7900

Family Core 309-676-2400

Lutheran Social Services 309-671-0300

Catholic Charities (in flux) 309-636-8000

Once you have chosen an agency you will receive a packet of information that includes an application. They will then do a home visit and the agency will sign you up for the PRIDE classes. You can request to be put in the classes being held at the 7229 N. Knoxville Ave. building of Bethany Baptist Church (please note these dates are on the DCFS schedule under Living Waters Church because that is the sign that identifies the building on Knoxville Ave). :

Feb. 18 9-4pm (2 sessions in one day)

Feb. 25 9-12noon

March 2, 10, 17, 24, 31 9-12noon

April 7 9-12noon

These dates don’t work for your family? Don’t let that be a deterrent there are other classes available in our area that may work better for your family!

As we are going into the Christmas season and these particular classes are open to any prospective foster parents it would be good to start talking with an agency before the holidays.

As part of the licensing process you will need to fill out an application, have physical exams on each family member, and anyone over 17 in your home will need to be fingerprinted. One of the parents will need to take the Educational Advocacy class; this class is being offered at Proctor Hospital on April 14, 2012 from 9-4pm. The licensing worker from your agency will walk you through these steps.

In need of something to do while you are waiting to be licensed? –

1. Pray that the Lord would help you to minister to the children that He will bring to you.

2. Pray that the Lord would help you to minister to the birth families of the children.

3. Pray that the Lord would prepare the hearts of your family for what He will teach you.

4. Make a list of the things the Lord brings to your mind when you are praying – this will

be great to reflect on as you minister to the ‘least of these’.

If you have any questions please feel free to call Amy Park - levisix@frontier.com

Please be in prayer!

2011-12-06T12:01:00.000-08:00

Please be in prayer for Philip and Charisa as they fly home with Hannah!

Praising the Lord for bringing this family together!

Adoption, Identity, and Kung-Fu Panda

2011-11-28T21:07:00.000-08:00

Here is an interesting take on Kung-Fu Panda. Follow this link for a piece by Russell Moore:

Adoption, Identity, and Kung-Fu Panda

November Focused Fellowship

2011-11-14T11:56:00.000-08:00

Calling all ladies with a heart for the orphan!

Focused Fellowship exists to help us all come alongside each other to encourage and build each other up as we go through the process of adoption and/or fostering. Whether you are in the thinking stage or your child is in your family we hope you can find encouragement as we meet together.

We meet for a time of prayer for our families, share our ups and downs, and offer practical helps that we have found to be helpful. Our goal is to keep it all centered around the Word of God.

Join us! We meet the third Monday of each month, see specifics for November below:

Monday, November 21, 2012

Time: 7pm - until .....

Place: The home of Monica at 1111 W. Burnside Dr., Peoria

Questions: Amy - levisix@frontier.com

There is no need to RSVP and if you'd like you can bring a snack to share.

Welcome to the Family!

2011-11-14T11:52:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the family

Josiah!

Congratulations to Will and Sara

and siblings

Micah, Mikaela, Sawyer, and Kadin!

Please continue to pray for this family as they grow together.

Orphan Sunday

2011-11-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

Post Placement Workshop

2011-10-21T18:34:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to keep this event as most recent on the blog I'm repeating it for those interested.

Open Hearts, Open Homes Orphan Care Ministry

"Adjusting to a new normal...

seeking wisdom after an adoption or foster placement"

This workshop is for anyone who is interested in fostering/adoption and is at any stage in that process. Our hope is to encourage and equip you in this adventure!

Please pass this on to anyone you know that could benefit!

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Time: 9 am - 1pm with a light lunch provided.

Place: Bethany Baptist Church, 7422 N. Heinz Lane, Edwards,IL

This workshop/seminar will consist of 2 sessions and a panel discussion, followed by a light lunch.

Workshops include:

Caring for the Orphan is Gloriously Painful - Dr. Daniel Bennett

Navigating ups and downs with your adoptive / foster child - Jerry Sanderson

Schedule:

9-9:15am – Welcome

9:15 – 10:15 – Pastor Daniel – Caring for the Orphan is Gloriously Painful

10:15-10:30 – break

10:30-11:30 – Pastor Jerry – Navigating Ups and Downs with our Foster/Adoptive Child

11:30-12:15 – Panel - made up of a variety of post-placement families

12:15-1pm – lunch

We will have childcare available. Please let us know when you RSVP the number and age of children you will be bringing with you that morning.

RSVP to: Bethany Baptist Church office - 309-692-1755.

For further questions: Amy Park 309-266-1635.

Defend the Cause

2011-10-21T18:32:00.001-07:00

Below is a link to the Defend the Cause event in Normal, IL

Saturday, November 12, 2011.

Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm

Place: Eastview Christian Church, 1500 N. Airport Rd., Normal, IL

This event is free however tickets are needed (see link below):
http://defendthecause.eventbrite.com

http://webmail.frontier.com/service/home/~/Defend%20The%20Cause%20Flyer%204.jpeg?auth=co&loc=en_US&id=58341&part=2

October Focused Fellowship

2011-10-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

Ladies - whether you are just in the investigation stage of fostering/adoption, waiting for the child the Lord has for you to minister to or in the midst of following the Lord in caring for a child Focused Fellowship could be for you!

We meet to pray and encourage one another in the journey of fostering and/or adoption.

Join us the third Monday of each month.

Next meeting:

Monday, October 17, 2011

Time: 7pm

Place: Monica's home: 1111 W. Burnside Dr. Peoria

No need to RSVP, just come. If you'd like bring a snack to share.

Any questions? Call Amy @ 266-1635

Post - Placement Workshop

2011-10-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

Open Hearts, Open Homes Orphan Care Ministry

"Adjusting to a new normal...seeking wisdom after an adoption or foster placement"

This workshop is for anyone who is interested in fostering/adoption and is at any stage in that process. Our hope is to encourage and equip you in this adventure!

Please pass this on to anyone you know that could benefit!

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Time: 9 am - 1pm with a light lunch provided.

Place: Bethany Baptist Church, 7422 N. Heinz Lane, Edwards,IL

This workshop/seminar will consist of 2 sessions and a panel discussion, followed by a light lunch.

Workshops include:

Caring for the Orphan is Gloriously Painful - Dr. Daniel Bennett

Navigating ups and downs with your adoptive / foster child - Jerry Sanderson

We will have childcare available. Please let us know when you RSVP the number and age of children you will be bringing with you that morning.

RSVP to: Bethany Baptist Church office - 309-692-1755. For further questions: Amy Park 309-266-1635.

--------------------------------------------

September Focused Fellowship

2011-09-18T19:22:00.001-07:00

Focused Fellowship is a time for foster and /or adoptive moms to come together for prayer and encouragement.

Date: Monday, September 19, 2011

Time: 7pm

Place: Monica's home - 1111 W. Burnside Dr.

Questions? Amy - levisix@frontier.com

No need to RSVP. Bring a snack to share if you would like.

Does It Pay to Visit Vermin? - John Piper

2011-09-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

‎"Jesus did not say, “True religion is converting orphans.” He did not say, “True religion is making orphans mature and successful adults.” He said, “True religion is visiting (caring for) orphans.” Results are God’s business. Obedience is ours. Perhaps when we grasp this, we will be freed from our earth-bound way of thinking and released to minister to the ones who are least likely to thank us." -- John Piper

To read the entire article follow the link below:

Does It Pay to Visit Vermin?

Open Hearts, Open Homes Orphan Ministry Bible Study!

2011-09-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Dates: Sunday, October 2, 2011- Sunday, November 6, 2011

Time: 11:00am (during our second service - there is childcare available)

Place: Bethany Baptist Church, 7422 Heinz Lane, Edwards, IL

Whether you are a family looking at adoption or fostering or just wanting a deeper understanding of the theology behind orphan care this study is for you! This study is open to anyone so if you have a friend that is interested please pass on the information.

Dr. Daniel Bennett's book - A Passion for the Fatherless is our text for this study.

Any questions? Contact Jerry Sanderson at Bethany Baptist Church - jerry@bethanycentral.org

Hot Off the Press!

2011-09-14T09:18:00.001-07:00

Open Hearts, Open Homes Orphan Care Ministry

"Adjusting to a new normal...seeking wisdom after an adoption or foster placement"

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Time: 9 am - 1pm with a light lunch provided.

Place: Bethany Baptist Church, 7422 N. Heinz Lane, Edwards,IL

This workshop/seminar will consist of 2 sessions and a panel discussion, followed by a light lunch.

We will have childcare available. Please let us know when you RSVP the number and age of children you will be bringing with you that morning.

RSVP/?'s to: Amy Park - levisix@frontier.com or 266-1635

BFC Guatemala 2011

2011-09-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

Recently a team of 18 people from the Bethany Fellowship of Churches returned from serving at Hogar de Vida in Guatemala. What follows is the video that chronicles their time of service there. Enjoy!

You can also check out the teams blog that they faithfully posted to each day of their trip.

http://www.bfcguatemala2011.blogspot.com/

What a blessing for each team member to see the Lord at work in Guatemala!

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

Orphan Care: An Opportunity to Make Much of Jesus

2011-08-23T10:11:00.000-07:00

The following is a guest post from Dan Cruver, the Director of Together for Adoption from the Desiring God site. The dates at the end of the article are from two years ago, but the content of the article is relative to today.

Orphan Care: An Opportunity to Make Much of Jesus

Dates for the Orphan Summit 2012 are in the post that follows.

Oprhan Summit 2011

2011-08-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

Summit 2011 Recap Video from Christian Alliance for Orphans on Vimeo.

You may want to be praying about the Orphan Summit 2012 May 3-4, 2012 at Saddleback Church, California.

Focused Fellowship Notice - no meeting in August

2011-07-21T14:29:00.002-07:00

We will not be having Focused Fellowship in August, with the beginning of a new school year we thought it best to take a one month break.

We will return to our regular schedule on Monday, September 19 at 7pm at the home of Monica Lonergan.

In the mean time if you would like to touch base with someone feel free to give Monica or Amy a call.

Open Hearts, Open Homes Summer Social!

2011-07-21T14:29:00.001-07:00

You are invited to join other foster and adoptive families for an

Open Hearts, Open Homes Social!

Date: Saturday,July 30, 2011

Time: 4:30pm

Place: JR White Park, Holland Rd, Germantown Hills

We will provide meat fresh off the grill and drinks. Please bring a dish to share

RSVP/?'s to: Lisa Schwarz - schwarz8@mtco.com

Welcome Home!

2011-06-16T20:48:00.000-07:00

Welcome Home Amelia!

Congratulations to Mark and Michelle!

Also congratulations to big sister and brother, Elizabeth and Evan!

We also welcome their wonderful grandma Diane home too!

We are praying for you all as you become the new family that the Lord desires you to be.

“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great.” Luke 9:8

Diaper Drive!

2011-06-09T11:11:00.001-07:00

This is a partial re-post from Jennell. Please read on to see how you can help!

Ok friends and family........I'm once again coming to you for help :) I know that you will come through for me :) I just teamed up with Jami Kaeb with the Forgotten Initiative. This girl has an incredible heart for the Lord and He is using her and her obedience to Him in a mighty way!! Check out the link to learn more about what she is doing for the foster children in our communities. She inspires me to do more, so I offered to help out and do a Diaper and Food Drive for our local DCFS in Peoria. DCFS is where Peoria area children go when they are taken from their parents custody and wait for foster care placement.

The following is taken from the Forgotten Initiative's website.

Local foster care agencies are doing their best to help children and their families in need but resources are limited and due to lack of funding, programs benefiting children and vulnerable adults are cut. When programs are cut, when supplies run low, when rooms get outdated and dirty, children are affected.

What if we, as the Body of Christ, did something to change this? What if we worked together to support the agencies and lighten their load? Not everyone is called to be a foster parent or even a mentor, but everyone can do something. The Forgotten Initiative believes strongly in building partnerships with local agencies. When you support the agencies, you literally affect the children they are trying to help. When you bring the light of Jesus Christ into an agency, everyone is uplifted!

You may have seen on the news or read about The Forgotten Initiative's recent renovation of the DCFS waiting room. Will you help me serve them again and supply them with diapers, wipes or baby food??? You can ship them directly to me and get great deals via http://www.amazon.com/ orhttp://www.diapers.com/. You can also drop anything off at our home or find me at church.

You can email me snjdietz@gmail.com with any questions you may have.

My goal: 100 boxes of diapers/pull-ups (any size) or wipes and several boxes and/or jars of baby food and/or formula by July 15th!!

They will be thrilled with anything given to them!! Let's bless them and show them what the Body of Christ can do for these innocent children!!!!!

Matthew 25:40 ....'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

The Forgotten Initiative - Project Peoria!

2011-06-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

Check out this link to hear more about the Peoria Project of The Forgotten Initiative!

http://www.centralillinoisnewscenter.com/news/local/Volunteers-Refurbish-DCFS--122980708.html

All for the glory of God!

Christian Adoptive Families Picnic

2011-06-02T16:16:00.000-07:00

Save the date!

Christian Adoptive Families picnic

on Sunday, July 24, 2011 in Tremont.

Time: 5-9pm - picnic 5-7pm, swimming 7-9pm

Place: Park Shelter across from the Tremont pool.

More details will be coming as things are finalized.

Christian Adoptive Families is a group of Christian adoptive

families from Central Illinois. They get together a few times a year

for fun and fellowship. Several OHOH families have attended

these events and have had a great time!

Open Hearts Open Homes Orphan Ministry Meal Team

2011-05-19T19:15:00.000-07:00

Food is a necessity of life you will all agree. But when you bring new children into your home through fostering and / or adoption oftentimes food becomes one more thing to manage.

One way to care for the orphan is to care for a family that is caring for "former" orphans. One particular way we do this as a ministry is to have a team of individuals that are willing to help provide meals to families that have recently brought children into their homes. If they are involved in Adult Bible Community/Sunday School we wait until their class has completed their service to the family and then we provide three additional meals. If they are not involved in one of these classes than OHOH provides meals right away. There are other times we provide meals as a means of encouraging a family that is experiencing trials of many kinds.

Perhaps you have been praying about ways you could reach out and care for those that have been fatherless. We would like to present you with the opportunity for you to be a part of the OHOH Meal Team where you would truly be a blessing to a family/families that are in the process of adjusting to a "new normal".

If you would be interested in being on the meal team please send your name, email, and phone number to Amy @ levisix@frontier.com and she will forward your information on to the Open Hearts, Open Homes Care Coordinator.

Thank you!

Matthew 10:42

And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”

Thinking About Fostering?

2011-05-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

In honor of Foster Care Appreciation Month, Children's Home is sponsoring an Informational Meeting for anyone who is interested in becoming a foster parent or learning more about how they can make a difference in the life of a child!

For more information, please contact Alesia at 309-687-7376.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

5:30-6:30pm

The Children's Home

2130 N. Knoxville Ave.

Peoria, IL 61603

No commitment is needed, people can fell free to just come and ask questions.

A Little Bit of Summit VII

2011-05-14T18:28:00.000-07:00

These are the words of Russell Moore (Southern Seminary) at Summit VII

"We are afraid of orphans. Because orphans are unpredictable. There is always some kind of tragedy. We would rather not think of such things. We are afraid of the mark left on the victims of tragedy.

God, in his adopting power thru Jesus, has brought us into his family. We reach orphans as ex-orphans ourselves.

As we move into the dangerous places, we empower others to live courageously. What do we have to be afraid of anymore? Jesus has given us a path. When we love in the sad, dark, haunted places; children who we are afraid of, we follow Jesus there."

excerpt from www.christianallianceblog.org

The Forgotten Initiative Toy Drive

2011-05-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

The Forgotten Initiative is an arm of LifeSong. The goal of the Forgotten Initiative is to care for the foster care community. You can check out The Forgotten Initiative at http://www.theforgotteninitiative.org

A group of people have come together to do a project in Peoria. Project Peoria Sunshine is currently raising funds to renovate the visit room at the Peoria DCFS office. Along with a fresh coat of paint, updated furniture and decorations we are desiring to fill this room with new toys.

Check out the toy donation list at the following site on Facebook. At this list you can leave a comment about which toy/s you would like to purchase and they will send the shipping address to you! How easy is that!

http://www.facebook.com/forgotteninitiative?ref=ts&sk=wall#!/notes/the-forgotten-initiative/toys-toys-toys-we-need-you/199953706712813

This is a great opportunity to reach out with compassion to those involved in foster care and to let the children in Peoria know that they are not forgotten!

To donate to this project you can send a donation to:

Lifesong for Orphans--Forgotten Initiative Peoria project (this should be in the check memo, too)

PO Box 40

202 N. Ford St.

Gridley, IL 61744

Last I had heard there had been $1200 donated with a goal of $3000.

May Focused Fellowship

2011-05-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars for our next Focused Fellowship date!

Monday, May 16 at 7:00pm at the home of Monica Lonergan. Monica's address is 1111 W. Burnside Dr., Peoria.

This is a wonderful evening of prayer, fellowship, and encouragement for ladies that are anywhere in the process of foster and/or adoption. If you are an "old pro" your insight is greatly appreciated, if you are new to this journey come and let us walk alongside you!

There is no need to RSVP just show up. Feel free to bring a friend. If you would like to provide a snack food you are welcome to do that, but do not feel like you have to there are always plenty of snacks.

Any questions you can contact Amy @ levisix@frontier.com.

Serving Him,
Amy

"Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Update on Project Sunshine Peoria!

2011-05-10T14:57:00.000-07:00

It's official that June 1st from 9-4pm will be the day we do this project. We've just gotten the go-ahead to paint the room so if you are available to help that day please let me know.

Our main needs right now are two-fold: (1) Donations and (2) someone to head up a toy drive.

As of Friday of last week, donations totaled $1200. Ideally we'd like to raise $3,000 for furniture, paint, toys, etc. But if someone is willing to lead a toy drive initiative, this will drive down the total amount we need to raise. If you're interested, please let me know ASAP. I can give you further information if you're interested.

The deadline for donations is May 16th, at which point I will work with our design team and shopping team to divvy up the money to purchase furniture, wall decor, paint, toys, etc. for the waiting room.

If you have questions please contact Amy @ levisix@frontier.com and she will get you in touch with Catherine.

See the post below for donation address.

Foster Kids Should Not Be Forgotten

2011-05-02T07:14:00.000-07:00

Deadline for donations: May 16, 2011

Over 15,000 kids who wind up in the foster care system in the state of IL often wait hours in an uninviting, outdated room as DCFS searches for a placement. Visit rooms are also used when a child in care meets with their parent/s each week for their time together. We have an incredible opportunity to renovate the DCFS room in downtown Peoria to make these kids feel special and loved.

The Forgotten Initiative is an arm of Lifsong for Oprhans and is raising $3000 for new books, toys and furniture. Will you help? Necessities like a changing table, sleeping mats, and high chairs will also be purchased. We hope to complete this project in June 2011, with a tentative target date set of June 1, 2011.

If you'd like to add your personal touch to this project, please contact Amy @ levisix@frontier.com and I will put you in touch with Catherine. Catherine is in the process of getting the word out to raise funds to make this dream of blessing these kids a reality.

Checks can be make payable to:
Lifesong for Orphans (re:Forgotten Initiative-Peoria)
PO Box 40 · 202 N. Ford St
Gridley, IL 61744 T

Thank you! for Catherine Cambra

Children of God by Third Day

2011-04-19T16:13:00.000-07:00

New Website for Orphan Care Resources

2011-04-19T16:06:00.000-07:00

The CoMission for Children at Risk has launched a new website with Orphan Care Resources. A resource worth checking out for information on many areas of orphan care.

  www.orphancareresources.org.

As we should always do, please use discernment as you read through the information.

Focused Fellowship - April 18

2011-04-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

Ladies!

Focused Fellowship will meet Monday, April 18, 2011 at 7:00pm.

There is no need to RSVP and always feel free to bring a friend that might benefit from our time together.

This is a wonderful evening of prayer, sharing, and encouragement for any woman that is anywhere in the process of fostering and/or adopting.

Monica's address: 1111 W. Burnside Dr.

Any questions? Amy @ levisix@frontier.com

Light the Fire

2011-04-04T15:04:00.000-07:00

The following is a local gathering that may be of interest to you:

Cornerstone Baptist Church in Morton, IL will holding a kick-off for their Orphan Care Ministry.

Date: Saturday, April 9, 2011

Time: 6:00 pm (it will last approximately 2 1/2 hours)

To register: cbcmorton.org or call: 266-5557

This event will feature speaker Kelly Putty from Ordinary Hero. Also Jami Kaeb will speak.

Gobena Coffee and a LifeSong booth will be available.

The goal of this conference is to promote orphan care and caring for the widow. Kelly will primarily be speaking on Ethiopia. The topic of community involvement in caring for the widow will also be addressed.

March Focused Fellowship

2011-03-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

Ladies,

Mark your calendars for the March date for Focused Fellowship!

Date: Monday, March 21, 2011 (we meet the third Monday of each month)

Time: 7pm - until it's time to go home

Place: Monica Lonergan's home, 1111 W. Burnside, Peoria

No need to RSVP, just show up. If you'd like you could bring a light treat to share.

Any questions? Reply here, or contact Amy @ levisix@frontier.com

For those new to Focused Fellowship, it is a time for ladies anywhere in the process of fostering or adopting to get together to encourage each other, share each others burdens, and pray for one another.

Steven Curtis Chapman - Orphan Ministry

2011-02-24T11:45:00.000-08:00

Christian Alliance for Orphans from New Vision Productions on Vimeo.

Focused Fellowship Tonight!

2011-02-21T05:29:00.000-08:00

For ladies anywhere in the process of foster care and/or adoption. Join us for a time of fellowship, prayer, and encouragement.

We meet at the home of Monica Lonergan, 1111 Burnside Dr., Peoria

Time: 7pm until our husbands call

No need to RSVP, just show up.

We'd love to see you!

Any questions? email Amy at levisix@frontier.com

One Less by Matthew West

2011-02-15T17:58:00.000-08:00

Welcome Home!

2011-02-03T17:49:00.000-08:00

Welcome Home Sahara!

Congratulations Marvin and Sara!

And Sahara's big brothers and sister, too!

We are praising the Lord for your safe homecoming.

"And whoever welcomes a child like this in my name welcomes me." Matthew 18:3

Adopted for Life free Download in February

2011-02-03T17:37:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Crossway Books and ChristianAudio, the book Adopted for Life is available for free download during the month of February.

Author Dr. Russell Moore will be a keynote speaker for Summit VII, and this is a great opportunity to explore his masterful book at no cost.

Although carrying much practical advice, this audiobook extends far beyond the nuts-and-blots of adoption. It explores the Biblical fountainhead of Christian adoption and orphan care: the Gospel of God's adoption of us.

Review by Jedd Medefind in Christianity Today's "My Top 5 Books on Orphan Care."

Video interview of Dr. Moore by blogger Justin Taylor.

Here is the site link:
http://christianaudio.com/free?utm_source=christianaudio&utm_campaign=a45a6017a2-Free_Feb_2011&utm_medium=email

2011-01-28T19:47:00.000-08:00

Welcome Home Ava!

Congratulations to Steve and Jennell and big brothers Braden, Ryan, and Blake!

We are praying for you all as you come together as a family!

"For this child I have prayed and God has granted me what I asked of Him."
I Samuel 1:27

2011-01-27T08:01:00.000-08:00

Here is link to a very good local conference being held at East White Oak Bible Church in Carlock, IL.

(This side of Bloomington/Normal)

Date: Saturday, February 19, 2011

Check out the link below for more information! And it's free!

http://www.connectingheartsconference.org/

Resources

2011-01-11T19:40:00.000-08:00

Christian Alliance for Orphans has a great site to check out for resources concerning adoption and fostering. Below is the link:

http://christianalliancefororphans.org/resources/resource-library

The Open Hearts, Open Homes Ministry does not recommend all the resources on this site, but there are many that you may find helpful. We encourage you to use discernment as you look through the list.

Winter Social

2011-01-11T19:33:00.001-08:00

And let us encourage one another.........

Bring your family and join us for the

Open Hearts, Open Homes Winter Social!

Date: Saturday, January 22, 2010

Time: 3-5pm

Place: Bethany Baptist Church - 7422 N. Heinz Lane, Peoria

What to bring: An appetizer, snacky food to share. We will provide drinks.

*RSVP/?s : Amy at levisix@frontier.com

December Focused Fellowship - Note the Date Change!

2010-12-03T10:54:00.000-08:00

Attention Ladies! It is almost time for Focused Fellowship again!

DATE: Monday, December 13, 2010 (note: this is the second Monday)

TIME: 7pm

PLACE: Monica's home, 1111 W. Burnside Dr. Peoria

To help us get in the Christmas spirit please bring an appetizer to share. We will encourage one another as we take this journey into fostering and/or adoption.

Any questions please contact Monica or Amy. No need to RSVP.

Focused Fellowship exists to bring ladies together that are anywhere in the process of fostering or adoption. We desire to spur one another on as we journey with the Lord through this amazing and at times challenging experience. We normally meet the third Monday of each month at 7pm at the home of Monica Lonergan. If you have any questions about Focused Fellowship please feel free to contact one of us mentioned above.

When Gotcha Day Isn't a Dream Come True

2010-11-16T14:10:00.000-08:00

Gotcha Day, the moment every adopting mom longs for when the child you have been dreaming of, praying for, and aching to hold gets placed in your arms. Forever. That moment, you assure yourself, will make the months of paperwork and the thousands of dollars worth the sacrifice.

Realistically you know the actual moment may not go the way you dream, but a mom can hope, right?

On our gotcha day, I was handed a scared 2 1/2 year old who wanted anything but a new mommy, especially one with blond hair, blue eyes and who spoke no Chinese. She cried hard, desperate for her foster momma, and eventually cried herself to sleep in my arms.

The days that followed were more of the same. While my husband made progress with Suhn, she continued to reject me. She would laugh with her daddy but if I attempted to join in, the wall would go up and the light would leave her eyes.

Logically I could understand her resistance. Through my reading and conversations with other adoptive moms I knew I was not alone, but rejection hurts, even when it is not personal. I wish I could say I only responded with patience and love, but instead my own wall started to go up.

The weeks and months that followed were hard. When we returned home our daughter warmed up to me, but the wall I had started to build did not evaporate overnight. I learned firsthand that attachment and bonding are processes that take time.

During our first dark week in China, a friend and fellow adoptive mom left a comment on my blog that has stuck with me, “In the darkest moments I once in a while remember that I would still do this all over because it is right.” I cannot tell you how many times I reminded myself of this truth during our first months with Suhn. When I didn’t feel love for my daughter and wondered if our relationship would ever be normal, remembering that adopting her was right helped me through. My feelings could not be trusted, but God could. He had called us to Suhn. Regardless of how I felt, I was 100% committed. She was my daughter.

Little by little, the walls came down and the love I pretended at some days became real. I cannot put into words how blessed I am to parent Suhn. You hear about the “miracle of adoption,” and it’s true. Adoption is miraculous and allows humans to experience a piece of God’s love like nothing else.

But it is also hard, and messy and gut-wrenching. If you experience the hard-side of adoption, know you are not alone. Show yourself grace, look for moms who have been there, and lean into the arms of God.

He understands. After all, He is an adoptive parent too.

This article taken from http://www.momlifetoday.com/2010/11/when-gotcha-day-isn%e2%80%99t-a-dream-come-true/

Family Life: Mom Life Today - Check our this site for more great articles related to National Adoption Awareness Month

November Focused Fellowship

2010-11-12T11:50:00.000-08:00

Focused Fellowship is a wonderful time of sharing the ways God has stretched us via Adoption/Fostering. We will have a short devotion, spend some time in prayer and have lots of time to talk. This gathering is not limited to Bethany families so please encourage others to attend! No matter what stage of considering/doing fostering or adoption our prayer is that the time we spend together will encourage you.

When: Monday, November 15, 2010

Time: 7:00pm - until we are asked to leave or your husband needs you home. (just kidding - sort of)

Place: Monica's home @ 1111 W. Burnside Drive, Peoria

If you are attending and would like to bring a snack to share just let Monica know. There is no RSVP needed.

Any questions you can contact Monica or Amy, or simply leave a comment on this page and we will get back to you.

8 Ways Every Christian Can Care for the Orphan and Waiting Child

2010-11-07T20:56:00.000-08:00

PRAY for them
• Sign up for Bethany’s Orphan Care Prayer Ministry at: www.bethanycentral.org/ministries (orphan care)
• May is National Foster Care month. Bethany hosts an annual prayer vigil.

PROVIDE for their needs
• Sew a quilt or security blanket for area foster children- due December 1.
Contact Charlotte Beck at 444-7071.

SUPPORT those who support them
• Mow, baby sit, or take meals to foster parents. Pray with them and tell them you appreciate what they do.
• Encourage a family adopting an older child by hosting a shower for them.
• Sign up for Bethany’s Meal Team to assist foster and adoptive families when child(ren) come home. Contact Michelle Hahn at 444-5161.

PROTECT them from harm
• Become a foster parent or emergency foster parent. Contact Amy Park
at 266-1635 or Monica Lonergan at 303-7965 for more information.

VISIT them where they are
• Go on a mission trip to an orphanage. Look for details when Bethany
lists 2011 mission trips.

GIVE sacrificially to them
• Contribute to an adoptive family to help offset their costs. Families with
Adoption Funds at Bethany Baptist are: Marvin & Sara Streitmatter,
Steve & Jennell Dietz, Gregg & Kris McClelland. At Bethany Community: Philip & Charisa Ausfahl, Mark & Michelle Hahn, Brian & Jennifer Entner. Contributions are tax deductible- and can be sent to Bethany Baptist.
• Contribute to Bethany’s adoption ministry general fund, used to give
grants to Bethany families that have been through a screening process. Contributions are tax deductible- and can be sent to Bethany Baptist.
Contact Lisa Schwarz at 383-4270 for more information.

ENCOURAGE them to press on
• Become a mentor or tutor to a teenager in a foster group-home.

ADOPT them into your family
• Give a child a home through international, domestic, or foster care adoption.
• Adopt a young adult who has aged out of the foster care system.
• Every Spring and Fall, Bethany offers an Orphan Care Bible Study to help you discover what God says about adoption and caring for orphans.
Contact Jerry Sanderson at 692-1755 for more information.

• Bethany’s Focused Fellowship provides encouragement for those walking through the journey of fostering and/or adoption. Ladies meet the third Monday of each month at 7pm. Contact Monica Lonergan at 303-7965.

Focused Fellowship Review

2010-10-21T11:58:00.001-07:00

This past Monday a group of 13 ladies met to encourage each other as we each walk through the journey of fostering and/or adoption. Each family has a little different story, each is at a different stage in the process but each has a heart to follow the Lord in caring for orphans. For some of these ladies this is their first experience in raising a child, for others they are blending a family of biological and adopted children, some thought their families were complete and the Lord showed them His heart in a new way.

After a short devotion on II Timothy 2 we introduced ourselves and the conversation took off from there. There was much laughter, a few tears, and each one received encouragement. What a great way to support each person's family.

I have heard that the mom sets the tone for the family. So as we spur one another on we are ministering to an entire family. As a mom as I am refreshed I am better able to love on and serve my family.

We would love to encourage each of you on your journey. To pray for these ladies is a priviledge and to get to know each one a delight.

Join us on the third Monday of each month at 7pm. For now we will continue to meet at Monica's home as it's location seems to work for many. No need to RSVP, just come.

An Orphan Event: United 4 Orphans::2010

2010-10-21T11:53:00.000-07:00

November 6th, 6:30pm at Grace Church - Morton, IL

A time of worshipping God and praying for the orphan crisis in the world. A opportunity to support projects in ZIway.

Ethiopia Live Band: "They Came Running". Dynamic guest speaker/testimonials.

Dessert and Gobena Coffee will be served.

October Focused Fellowship

2010-10-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

Focused Fellowship

for ladies

Please note the location is the same as last month. If you would be willing to host a Focused Fellowship at your home, east or west side of river, please contact Monica or Amy.

Date: Monday, October 18

Time: 7pm

Place: Monica Lonergan's home, 1111 W. Burnside Dr., Peoria, IL

No need to RSVP just show up.

Format - Adoptive/foster mom will share a short devotion on what the Lord is teaching her lately. Followed by a time of sharing and prayer. Of course there is always a sweet dessert.

Any questions call Amy @ 266-1635 or Monica @ 303-7965.

OHOH Fall Social!

2010-09-29T10:42:00.001-07:00

Because it is good to be together.... We invite you and your family to join others that have a heart for orphan care of any kind to join us for our fall social.

Date: Saturday, October 16, 2010

Time: 5:00pm

Place: Mark and Michelle's home in Washington, IL
. 26625 Liberty Lane

What to bring: A dish to share and lawn chairs. We will be serving hot dogs and have a fire to roast marshmallows. We will be outside.

Any questions or to RSVP : contact Amy at levisix@frontier.com
Please note other dates of interest in the post prior to this one.

Two Events to Note

2010-09-16T20:20:00.001-07:00

We want to remind all of you ladies, no matter where you are in the process of adopting or fostering that you are invited to Focused Fellowship.

Focused Fellowship

Date: Monday, Sept. 20th

Time: 7:00pm

Location: Monica Lonergan's home @ 1111 W. Burnside Dr., Peoria, IL

No RSVP needed. Questions contact Amy @ levisix@frontier.com

For Husbands and Wives together:

For those of you who have not had the opportunity to go through the Orphan Care Bible Study now is your chance.

Orphan Care Bible Study

Place: Bethany Baptist Church

Dates: October 10- Nov. 14

Time: During the 2nd church service (starting at 11:00am)

Any questions contact Jerry @ jerry@bethanycentral.org or Amy @ levisix@frontier.com

Meant to Be

2010-09-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

(To turn off the background music, find the controls in the right hand side-bar and click pause)

New & Improved Focused Fellowship!

2010-08-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

Monday, September 20, 2010 at Monica Lonergan's home at 7pm
Address: 1111 W. Burnside Dr., Peoria

Ladies, no matter where you are in the area of fostering and/or adopting Focused Fellowship could be for you! We have made some changes to what we have tried in the past and are excited about the prospect of encouraging one another.

Format: We plan to have a special woman share a short testimony each month about, "What God is teaching me through the experience of fostering/adopting." We will have a short time of sharing and finish with a time of prayer for each other. We'll top it off with a sweet dessert!

Place: Open Hearts, Open Homes is a ministry of the Bethany Fellowship of Churches so we plan to rotate our meeting place between east and west of the river, (2-3 homes). This lessens the burden of the drive for each person. Our plan is to have a schedule for the next few months at our first meeting.

Any questions feel free to email:

Amy Park @ levisix@verizon.net or Monica Lonergan @ jonmon95@rocketmail.com

Christian Adoptive Families Picnic

2010-07-13T21:42:00.000-07:00

Christian Adoptive Families is a group of adoptive families from Central Illinois. They meet approximately two times a year for fellowship, food, and encouragement.

There will be a picnic on Sunday, July 18 at 4:00pm. This picnic will take place at Idlewood Park in Morton. They will meet at the shelter off E. Greenwood St. (This park is right next to the new Morton pool.)

We will begin with supper, followed by a short time of sharing and testimony, playground time for the kids, and finally one hour of swimming at the brand new Morton Pool beginning at 7:00 pm.

For our testimony, Nicole Heid, birth mother of the host family's adopted child Analea, has agreed to share about her experiences from the "other side" of the foster care system. As a mother who had two children placed in the foster care system, eventually regaining custody of one and giving up rights to the other, it should provide a really powerful insight into some of the feelings and struggles that birth parents experience when their children are taken.

Dinner: Grilled Chicken!! For those who were at the last get-together, Nathan Eichorn who gave his testimony, has offered to come from Indiana and grill chicken! Each family should bring a covered dish and dessert to add to it. Paper products and drink will be provided.

Cost: A donation will be taken to help cover the cost of the chicken, paper products, and for renting the pool for an hour.

To help us figure how much chicken to buy, we would really appreciate getting a good count, so please RSVP if you plan on attending to: pcw@omnilec.com

Welcome Home!

2010-06-25T15:29:00.000-07:00

Welcome to your new home Benjamin!

Congratulations to Gregg, Kris, Ashley, Lindsay, Tara, and Jaime!

We'll be praying for all of you as you become the family the Lord wants you to be.

The McClellands are coming home!

2010-06-20T10:19:00.001-07:00

Gregg and Kris are bringing Benjamin home this Wednesday, June 23!

Please be in prayer for them as they travel for many hours with a toddler.

They would love for you to meet them at the airport. If you are not on the OHOH email list please leave a comment here and we will get you their flight information.

We will also attempt to keep you up-to-date with any delays, though we are praying there will be none.

Dates to Set Aside!

2010-06-08T19:17:00.001-07:00

Here are some dates you will want to put on your calendar!

****This Saturday, June 12 from 5-7 pm. Open Hearts, Open Homes Social. Potluck - bring a dish from your country of interest or a favorite of your family. See post below for details.

****Christian Adoptive Families Picnic - this is a group of adoptive families from Central Illinois Sunday, July 18 at 4:00 pm at Idlewood Park in Morton. More details will be coming - stay tuned!

**** Christian Alliance for Orphans Summit VII - Louisville, KY - May 12-13, 2011

2010-05-18T20:31:00.000-07:00

Open Hearts, Open Homes Orphan Ministry
invites your family to join us for a potluck!

Saturday, June 12, 2010

(please note the date change if you received an earlier email)

At: Bethany Baptist Church, 7422 N. Heinz Lane, Edwards
(driving directions available @ bethanycentral.org)

Time: 5-7pm

Please bring: a dish to share that correlates to the country you have an interest in or your favorite dish.

We will provide: Cake to celebrate with the families that have brought children into their homes over the past year!, drinks, and table service.

Please RSVP (or if you have any questions?) to:
Ken and Amy : levisix@verizon.net

New Garage Sale for 2 Adopting Families

2010-05-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Streitmatter and Dietz Families

are having a Garage Sale to assist them with their adoptions costs.

Friday, May 14 and Saturday, May 15

Time: 8-2pm

Place: 316 North Creek Court, Princeville (Saturday is the Town Wide Sale)

Lost of clothes - boys, girls, baby, men, women, and maternity. Some other items available include: infant swing, train table, exersaucer, bouncey seat, furniture, and household items.

The Streitmatters are adopting a little girl from Ethiopia and the Dietz family from Korea.

John Piper at Summit VI

2010-05-09T19:16:00.000-07:00

Recently 5 of us from the ministry of Open Hearts, Open Homes attended Christian Alliance for Orphans Summit VI conference. It was two days of great encouragement and challenge on caring for the orphan. What a blessing to be with many brothers and sisters in Christ that share our passion for the orphan!

The last speaker of the conference was John Piper. The following is the video of his talk for your listening pleasure. If you are currently serving orphans in any capacity, or have a heart for serving orphans you will find this to be of great interest.

Simplify Your Life

2010-05-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

Insight 2: Simplify Your Life from Tapestry on Vimeo.

Foster Care Prayer Vigil

2010-04-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

Open Hearts, Open Homes Orphan ministry it pleased to announce that Bethany Baptist Church will be a host site for a National Foster Care Prayer Vigil. These vigils will be held through out the country during the week of May 16th-23rd. Information regarding the vigils and ministry can be found at www.cryoftheorphan.org. On the right of their home page is a link for Prayer Vigil information.

Bethany's prayer vigil is scheduled for May 18th at 6:00 p.m. We will begin with a short devotion and spend time in prayer commited to the plight of the child in foster care, agency workers, foster parents and birth parents. A time of refreshments and fellowship will follow at 7:00 p.m. This event is open to the community and will be advertised locally.

Praying for children in foster care is a very tangible way that we as a church family can demonstrate our commitment to orphans. We hope to see you there. If childcare would be beneficial please contact Monica and arrangements will be made (you could leave a comment here).

www.fostercareprayervigil.org

Hope for Orphans April 2010 eNewsletter link

2010-04-26T12:18:00.000-07:00

I recently read the April 2010 Hope for Orphans enewsletter. Paul and Robin Pennington wrote a very interesting article about trends in adoption. I thought it might interest some of you.

Below is the link where you can read the article:

http://hopefororphans.org/display.asp?Page=April2010

Fundraiser Flyer Community

2010-04-19T20:09:00.000-07:00

Please take note of this Adoption Fundrasier Garage Sale

for the Ausfahl and McClelland Families.

May 7 hours: 2-5pm

May 8 hours: 8-4pm

Click below for details!

Fundraiser Flyer Community

Congratulations!

2010-04-19T19:48:00.001-07:00

Welcome Tyler!

Congratulations Matt and Leslie and big sisters Allison and Ashley!

***

"The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made." Psalm 145:9

Call for Focused Fellowship Tonight!

2010-04-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

Open Hearts, Open Homes Moms!

We have had a request for some needed Focused Fellowship so...

Consider joining us tonight, April 6 at 6:30pm at the North Knoxville Ave. Panera's to give and receive encouragement to other moms on this crazy journey of fostering and/or adoption!

We'd love to see you all!

Sorry for the last minute decision, but sometimes we have to seize the day!

Adoption Tax Credit Extended and Increased

2010-03-24T20:54:00.001-07:00

Check this out!

Adoption Tax Credit Extended and Increased

Posted using ShareThis

Some Thoughts for Dads

2010-03-12T13:44:00.000-08:00

The Oatsvall family is part of 147 Million Orphans. You can check out this ministry at 147millionorphans.com

Orphan Care Bible Study coming soon!

2010-03-05T07:22:00.000-08:00

Join us for the next Open Hearts, Open Homes

Orphan Care Bible Study

Dates: Sundays, March 21 - April 25

Time: 9-10am

Place: Bethany Community Church (meeting at Five Points in Washington, IL)

Pastor Daniel will be teaching.

This study is open to anyone interested in hearing about God's heart for the orphan. For more information or questions you can contact Daniel via email daniel@bethanycommunitychurch.org

The Open Hearts, Open Homes Ministry is a shared ministry of the Bethany Fellowship of Churches.

Welcome Home!

2010-02-27T17:46:00.000-08:00

Welcome home to the Ham family!

The Hams arrived safely home Friday night about 9:25pm.

Please continue to pray for all of the family as they get to know each other.

We praise the Lord for the answered prayer for this family.

Ham Family Update

2010-02-26T11:23:00.000-08:00

The Hams have run into a delay with their flights.

Watch for emails and further information as it becomes available.

In the mean time, thank you for praying this family home!

The Ham Family

2010-02-24T19:57:00.001-08:00

"Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." Ephesians 6:18

The Hams are getting close to being on their way home from Ethiopia with their oldest son and their newest two children. Please be in prayer for them as they travel a long distance while building new relationships.

Thank you for your interceding on their behalf.

The Tim Tebow Story

2010-02-24T19:49:00.000-08:00

Much ado was made about the Tim Tebow commercial during the Super Bowl. Below is a link to the Tebow's Story on Focus on the Family.

www.focusonthefamily.com - click on the Tebow Story. It is a great story honoring God in a situation that could have turned out totally different.

Enjoy!

Jonah and the Orphan

2010-02-05T10:11:00.000-08:00

What do Jonah and adoption/fostering have in common? Has God ever asked you to do something that you were certain did not make sense? Was your first reaction to run from it?
Did you wrestle with God until your faith in Him took over? Did you step out in obedience, if not complete willingness, because you recognized His voice in the calling? for many, the first fleeting thoughts towards the orphan are not often met with an overwhleming desire to respond immediately. We push the thoughts away and attempt to continue with life as we know it. Be as we see in the story of Jonah, God is a pursuing God. Not just for the benefit of the Ninevites but to teach Jonah something about the condition of his heart. God uses the orphan to reveal layers of our hearts that we might wish were not there. How do we respond when our "ideal" situation is not the one that God presents to us? How do we interact with birth parents that might challenge us in ways we were not anticipating? Do we reflect God's love when dealing with children that were not born to us? We might like to believe that pursuing adoption and fostering is all about the need of a child. In reality, it might just as importantly be about our need to be "revealed." The story of Jonah is a bit of a cliffhanger. We don't know if Jonah sought forgiveness for his attitude towards the Ninevites. What we do know is that God is the Ultimate Multi-Tasker. He is more than capable of using the need of some to reveal the heart of one. He pursued and provided for both. And in the end, they both were better for it!

-Monica (Broadcaster Jan. 2010)

Haiti - Orphans and Adoption

2010-01-24T20:37:00.000-08:00

Everyone's mind is on Haiti these days. The people, the devestation, those that have gone to help are all in our thoughts and prayers. Even our children are concerned for the children in Haiti. Some good has come out of such tragedy as the Lord has opened the minds of those in power in such a way to unite families with their adoptive children. Our friends the Stanleys have been blessed in this way.

What will become of the orphans in Haiti and how will adoption be affected by all that has happened? We have posted two links for you to look at that will help you understand better how to pray for those in Haiti.

http://www.christianallianceblog.org/

www.jcics.org/haiti.htm

"We loved because He first loved us." I John 4:7

Connecting Hearts Conference- Feb. 20, 2010

2010-01-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

Here is a link to a conference in the Bloomington/Normal area. A few of us attended this conference last year and found it to be interesting. I am doing some checking and will post more later but last year it was especially helpful for those in the earlier stages of adoption.

Check it out! http://www.connectingheartsconference.org/

Blindside

2009-12-04T07:01:00.000-08:00

Watch the video of Steven Curtis Chapman sharing on the inspirational new movie, The Blind Side. The film is based on the incredible true story of Michael Oher, a teenager whose life is changed by adoption as he finds himself in a family that truly believes in him for the first time. Watching this story unfold on the silver screen with friends and family is a great way to enter into conversation about the miracle of adoption. The Blind Side released on November 20 to acclaim from audiences across the country.

Link to Orphan Sunday Live Event!

2009-11-16T21:24:00.000-08:00

In celebration of November as National Adoption Awareness Month, Show Hope and Steven Curtis Chapman, along with Focus on the Family and FamilyLife, helped to lead the charge this past Sunday, November 8 – also known as "Orphan Sunday" – for a live event in Nashville with one goal: raising awareness of the more than 140 million orphans worldwide. The free event was simulcast through satellite and Moody Radio Network and through a webcast at OrphanSunday.org and is now available online at GospelMusicChannel.com.

Check it out!

http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com/orphansunday

December Ministry Social

2009-11-16T07:28:00.000-08:00

Open Hearts, Open Homes Ministry is inviting your family

to join us for food and fellowship!

December 12, 2009

5-7pm

Please bring: An appetizer or dessert to share!

Where: Ken and Amy Park's home

RSVP: at levisix@verizon.net and if you need directions

A Great Quote

2009-11-11T17:22:00.000-08:00

This is a very small part of an interview that you can find on: http://chrisitianallianceblog.org/

Jedd Medefind: So, last question–personal one: Any advice for a fellow adoptive dad?

Russell Moore: Say “I love you” repeatedly, and don’t forget to discipline. And always think of the adoption as past-tense. Also don’t think you have to answer intrusive questions from onlookers in a way that’ll make your son or daughter feel strange or distant from the rest of the family. They’ve been “brought near” and are “no longer strangers” (Eph.2)

Dr. Moore is the Dean of the School of Theology and Senior Vice-President for Academic Administration at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Orphan Sunday Video

2009-11-11T10:47:00.001-08:00

National Orphan Sunday Community Wide Gathering!

2009-11-01T19:40:00.000-08:00

LifeSong for the Orphan presents:

National Orphan Sunday Community Wide Gathering

Pontiac Township High School - Pontiac, IL

November 15, 2009 at 2pm

Our prayer is that this event will raise awareness for orphan care and adoption within the community and allow the Lord to stir in the hearts of believers all over this state.
Lysa TerKeurst from Proverbs 31 Ministries will be sharing her incredible testimony and adoption journey.

Admission is free of charge, tickets are by reservation only. For tickets contact Christi at 309-747-3558 or by email at christi@lifesongfororphans.org.

*An initiative of the Christian Alliance for Orphans & The Cry of the Orphan Campaign

The Theology of Adoption

2009-10-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

With the desire to expose believers to the Scriptural mandate to care for orphans, help them understand why God has issued that call, and give them the ability to discern how God would have them joyfully respond to His call we host an Adoption Bible Study twice a year in our church.

As we look at God and the orphan we cover the following topics: The uniqueness of Christian orphan care, theology of the disenfranchised, the glorious grace of God in adoption, and six truths regarding our adoption by from the book of Romans. In Part 2: God's People and the Orphan we delve into orphans and the gospel, orphans and missions, and lastly hard issues to confront regarding how to be involved in orphan care.

Our desire is to present clearly the Lord's heart for the orphan and to encourage the church to think about how the Lord would have them be involved with orphan care.

We began our fall study this past Sunday evening as part of our Sunday Night Electives. It is not too late to join us! You do not have to attend our church to attend, anyone is welcome.

The study is from October 4 - November 8. Time 6:00pm - 7:15pm

Place: Bethany Baptist Church, 7229 N. Knoxville Ave., Peoria, IL 61614

Tackling Tricky Assignments

2009-10-03T07:39:00.001-07:00

There are times during the school year when there are assignments that can be little trickier for an adopted child. Recently in the Adoptive Families Magazine there was an article that tackled six of those tricky assignments. We have experienced some of these assignments, though they take a little more thought it has opened up avenues of conversation in our home and with our child's friends at school.

The following is a reprint of three of those tricky topics:

Baby Picture

Assignment: Bring in a baby picture. The photos are often posted anonymously and classmates are asked to guess who's who, or may be used in yearbooks or graduation presentations.

Grade level: Preschool to kindergarten, junior high and high school graduations.

Learning goal: To help students get to know one another, to salute graduates.

Why it's challenging: Children adopted at an older age may not have baby pictures; the identities of children who stand out because of race or physical differences are easy to guess.

Alternatives for teachers: have children bring in pictures from when they were "younger", or draw pictures of themselves as babies.

Approaches for parents: Let your child know that you wish you had photos, too, and say that your'e sure she was a beautiful baby. Encourage her to draw a picture of herself.

How one family handled it: "My son was asked to bring in a baby photo for his elementary school graduation. I wrote a letter to the teachers and included articles from AF. The team leader acknowledged that they'd just always done it this way. In future years, they'll ask for photos of the children 'at a younger age'.

Family Tree

Assignment: Draw a family tree - either as a literal tree, with branches, or in a diagram form - showing family relationships.

Grade level: Elementary school.

Learning goal: To illustrate family relationships

Why it's challenging: The format may not accomodate birth and adoptive relatives, or otherwise nontraditional family makeups.

Alternatives for teachers: Offer formats that show roots as well as branches; instead of a tree, have students create a family forest or a neighborhood of family houses.

Approaches for parents: Allow your child to choose which family or famlies to portray, or encourage him to design his own format.

Star of the Week

Assignment: During the child's turn as Star of the Week, create and present a poster with the child's story and family photos.

Grade level: Kindergarten to first grade.

Learning goals: To help students get to know one another; also serves as a leadership opportunity.

Why it's challenging: When our kids are placed in the spotlight, adoption often comes up, and they may not feel comfortables handling intrusive questions.

Alternatives for teachers: Instead of focusing on the child's past, let the Star of the Week talk about pets, current hobbies, and other elements of her life.

Approaches for parents: Role-play possible responses to questions in advance. Ask your child about accompanying her to school to give an adoption presentation.

Check out the Adoptive Families website at http://www.adoptivefamilies.com/ for more information.

OHOH September Social Reminder

2009-09-04T07:05:00.000-07:00

Family and Friends of the Open Hearts, Open Homes Ministry

You are invited
to our

September Social

When: Saturday, September 12, 2009

Time: 5-7pm

Place: JR White Park, Germantown Hills (directions to follow)

We will provide: hamburgers, hotdogs, drinks, place settings.

Please bring: A dish to share - such as a side dish or dessert.

RSVP/?'s - Amy at levisix@verizon.net

Raindate: If we need to make changes due to weather we will contact you ASAP.

Directions to the JR White Park - From Peoria - Take Rte 116 east to Germantown Hills - turn Left onto Woodland Knolls Rd. - take an immediate Right onto Holland Rd. The park is on the corner of Holland Rd. and (the second) McKenzie Rd.

Thought for Today

2009-08-27T07:58:00.001-07:00

God is looking for people through whom He can do the impossible - what a pity we plan only the things we can do ourselves.~ A. W. Tozer

Words of Encouragement

2009-08-11T10:21:00.000-07:00

We know that there are some that read this blog that pray for the families involved in this ministry, some of you are one of those families, and still some just are interested in what the Lord is doing in people's hearts towards the orphan. With permission we share excerpts from a note we recently received. May these words encourage you no matter where you are on this journey.

We cannot ever thank you enough for all of your hard work to encourage us, teach us, support us and help us to adopt our children. It has now been 1 year and 7 months as a family and the children are growing incredibly.

Here is an example of why an adoption ministry is so important: Our children are so very excited to learn about Dios (God) everyday. They are coming to understand how our sin is a serious problem and how God has provided a remedy for our sins through the Lord Jesus Christ. They know that we must be washed clean through trusting Jesus Christ as our substitute and Savior as He was the only one to live and obey perfectly. It is truly remarkable to see our 3, 5 and 7 year children on the journey towards their upcoming second adoption: their adoption by God the Father so they can become children of God through rebirth in their souls.

Truly, we can never, ever express how grateful we are for your partnership and for an incredible church that comes alongside families to give orphans a hope and a future - not just now but for all eternity.

That adoption loan combined with the incredible blessing of the matching grant funds and the creation of the Bethany adoption expense account not only provided for the adoption of our children but has also eased the financial burden and frees us as we plan to initiate the adoption process of three more little Colombian Armstrongs. Without all of the OHOH assistance, a second adoption would be much less likely as the burden would have been much too great.

Thank you to all who pray for the families that are pursuing adoption or foster care and those that support them financially and through your words of encouragement. Lives are being changed for eternity because of your care.

Invitation to our Next Social!

2009-08-07T15:29:00.000-07:00

Family and Friends of

Open Hearts Open Homes Ministry

You are invited to our

September Social

When: Saturday, September 12, 2009

Time: 5-7pm

Where: JR White Park, Germantown Hills - directions will follow

We will provide: hamburgers, hot dogs, drinks, and condiments.

Please Bring: A side dish or dessert to share.

RSVP/?'s - Amy at levisix@verizon.net

Raindate: If you RSVP we will contact you if we have to make changes due to weather.

Directions: From Peoria - Take Rte. 116 east to Germantown Hills - turn Left onto Woodland Knolls - immediately turn Right onto Holland Rd. - The park is on the corner of Holland Rd. and (the second) McKenzie Rd.

We'd love for your family to join us as we encourage each other on this journey of orphan care.

Check It Out

2009-07-23T20:09:00.000-07:00

The last two years part of the Open Hearts, Open Homes Ministry team has attended the Summit conference regarding orphan care. Each year we have been challenged to think deeper and overall spurred on by what the Lord is doing in the lives of orphans around the world through His church. These conferences are put together by Christian Alliance for Orphans.

Christian Alliance for Orphans has recently begun a new blog. http://chrisitianallianceblog.org/
They will be addressing all sorts of topics in relation to orphan care and will have guest bloggers from the orphan care community. There are also several links to orphan care providers that have blogs, too.

Perhaps you would like to check it out!

The Secret Joy

2009-06-30T16:33:00.000-07:00

Most evenings, our routine includes reading out loud to our children. Currently we are finishing up "George Muller: The Guardian of Bristol's Orphans". It is a biography from Janet and Geoff Benge's Series, "Christian Heroes: Then and Now". George Muller (1805-1898) has a faith inspiring story. After much rebellion, he came to saving faith while in university. It radically changed his life. While serving God as a minister, George longed for far off mission fields. Then God revealed to George that he didn't need to travel any further than his own back door in Bristol to serve Him. He had a mission field of his own serving the needs of poor and abandoned children.

In the beginning, it started with a simple "Breakfast Club." Children arrived at their home for a hot meal and Bible devotion. Their home quickly outgrew the ability to provide for all the children and adults that arrived to be fed physically and spiritually. One thing lead to another. In the end, George and Mary established a ministry that included the building of five large houses that ultimately provided a safe home for over 10,000 orphans! What makes it even more amazing is that George and Mary barely had a dime of their own. They rested in the knowledge that if God provided the vision and they demonstrated a willingness, God would also provide whatever means were necessary to accomplish His task.

At one point, George saw a need to build another building to accommodate more orphans. The cost seemed insurmountable to most. George wrote in his journal: "The greatness of the sum required affords me a kind of secret joy; for the greater the difficulty to be overcome, the more will it be seen to the glory of God how much can be done by prayer and faith." When I read this out loud to my kids, I caught my breath. How great IS the sum when God calls us to respond to the need of a child? Is it financial? Is it emotional? Is it a spiritual stretch? Most likely it is all three and so much more! Although George planned and organized, it seemed like he did not get distracted by the "big" picture. He didn't get bogged down. He simply stated, "If God is in this, He will supply." The beauty of reading biographies about godly men and women is that they served the same God we do! It is such an encouragement to be reminded of what God has done in the lives of others. As you consider in what ways God is calling you to serve the orphan, my prayer is that you can recognize the "secret joy" that is the result of hurdles that only God can jump. - Monica Lonergan

"If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God.

If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides,

so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.

To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen."

I Peter 4:11

We will be attempting to post each month the Broadcaster article for the Open Hearts, Open Homes ministry. In the future to read these articles you can do so by clicking on the "Broadcaster" link on the side.

Children's Books About Adoption

2009-06-26T16:40:00.000-07:00

There are many books that families enjoy reading to their children. Books that lend themselves to discussions about adoption are a great way to keep the adoption conversation natural and age appropriate. I am thinking that some readers of this blog may have some favorites you would be willing to share. I will get us started with some that our family has enjoyed reading.

A Mother for Choco by Keiko Kasza - This book is about a little bird looking for his mother. The mother he finds is perfect for him but doesn't look anything like him and the other children in the family are all different also. All the characters in this story are animals.

God Knows My Name by Debby Anderson - While this particular book is not adoption specific it is a great story all about how God knows all about us. Each page includes several scripture references that you can look up together. It is very easy to tie adoption into the content of this book. A great reminder that God has a great plan for each child! The illustrations in this book include children of all kinds.

Child of Destiny: Matthew Was Adopted by Phoebe Dawson - Matthew asks his mother about his adoption in this picture book. She tells him how God has put together His special plan and how God brought Matthew into their family. The book ends with a short child's version of God's adoption of us. Brandon loves to be read this book when we insert his name in place of Matthew.

If you have a book you would like to share please leave a comment and I will post it to the main page, or if you have my (Amy) contact information please feel free to send it to me. This is a great way to share what we have found helpful with others.

Very Questionable Movie - Orphan

2009-06-12T07:34:00.000-07:00

We want to simply put this information out to you and allow you to make your own decision whether a response is needed.-----

Recently several of us received an email regarding a new movie coming out entitiled "Orphan". (I attempted to post a link to the press release but couldn't get it to work.)

I watched the trailer for this movie before I posted this and found it to be quite disturbing. This movie is not going to do anything positive for adoption, especially adoption of an older child. Any thoughts of adoption taken from this movie will be extremely negative.

I have posted a link to a petition from America World Adoptions below:

http://www.awaablog.org/blog/2009/05/orphan-movie-petition.html