Podcast appearances and mentions of bethany christian services

In this episode of the Ministry Architects podcast, hosts Renee Wilson and Brandon Collins are joined by Keith Cureton, CEO of Bethany Christian Services. They dive deep into the urgent need for foster care and how churches and individuals can transform children's lives. Full Show Notes

Carol Hoeksema was born at the Salvation Army Evangeline Home for unwed mothers in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1957, where she stayed the first 13 days of her life before going to an unknown foster family arranged by Bethany Christian Services. At 3 months, she was given to her adoptive parents and raised in the Dutch immigrant community of Pella, Iowa. She always knew that she was adopted and was curious about her roots. At age 19, she started her search by going to the adoption agency, and over the next 15 years, she was able to find and contact the families of both birth parents. After experiencing a secondary rejection by her mother, she found healing and belonging in doing genealogy research. In contrast, her late father's family welcomed her with open arms. She has lived a rich life, full of family, friends, and adventures. A retired family physician, Carol lives with her husband on Camano Island, Washington. They have 3 grown children and 4 grandchildren. In this interview, she tells the story of her adoption and search for her roots so that her descendants will know their history, too, and wants to give hope to others experiencing birth mother rejection.Sign up for our mailing list to get updates and the Eventbrite - (soon to be published) - for our September 12th & 13th Washington, D.C. Event!Thank you to our Patreons! Join at the $10 level and be part of our monthly ADOPTEE CAFE community. The next meeting will be on Saturday, June 7th, @ 1 PM ET.RESOURCES for Adoptees:S12F Helping AdopteesGregory Luce and Adoptees Rights LawFireside Adoptees Facebook GroupDr. Liz Debetta: Migrating Toward Wholeness MovementMoses Farrow - Trauma therapist and advocateNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255 OR Dial or Text 988.Unraveling Adoption with Beth SyversonAdoptees Connect with Pamela KaranovaBecause She Was Adopted by Kristal ParkeDear Amy, letters to Amy Coney Barrett. A project by Meika RoudaSupport the showSupport the showTo support the show - Patreon.

This week, Ruth welcomes artist and pastor Delwin Eiland to discuss the spiritual practice of tarrying. Delwin shares his experience as a worship leader, emphasizing the importance of silence and restraint in spiritual life. The episode delves into how communal tarrying can create space for deeper connection with God and the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding these moments. Ruth and Delwin also discuss how silence can act as a form of resistance and sovereignty over one's inner life. The episode concludes with a tarrying moment held by one of Delwin's songs, titled 'Wait for You.' We are journeying through Lent with a podcast season entitled “Tarry with Me Awhile: Learnings from the Black Church.” We will use Dr. Selina Stone's book, Tarry Awhile: Wisdom from Black Spirituality for People of Faith, as a guide. Black spirituality has much to offer us in understanding the practice of tarrying as a Lenten practice. Together we will seek a deeper understanding of waiting on God in the liminal space—where the resurrection feels far off, and our deaths and suffering are present.    Delwin Eiland (TC19) is an artist, pastor, & leader who exists to create trustworthy connections, God-centered affirmation, empathetic challenge, and steady, vulnerable leadership. He sees his work as a means to the end of building bridges and cultivating lasting connections. With over 25 years as a professional musician, Delwin brings experience and leadership in church environments and venues ranging from 30 to 30,000. He is a proven strategic & creative collaborator with work including Bethany Christian Services, the FILO Conference, and the Global Leadership Summit. Delwin currently serves as the worship pastor for Mars Hill Bible Church in Grand Rapids, MI, as well as the worship leader for The Transforming Center. He and his wife, Ashlee, have three children.   Music this season is provided by Julian Davis Reed. Julian Davis Reid (TC20) is an artist-theologian from Chicago who uses sound and word to offer hope to the searching, presence to the sorrowful, and rest to the weary. A pianist, composer, and producer, his projects featured on this podcast are the two solo piano records Rest Assured (2021) and Beside Still Waters (2024) and his single Moan (Matthew 2:18) featuring Tramaine Parker, released on Inauguration Day 2025 on the project When Souls Cry Out. Julian steadily releases music under his own name and with his group, The JuJu Exchange. You can learn more about his work at juliandavisreid.com. Mentioned in this episode: Tarry Awhile: Wisdom from Black Spirituality for People of Faith by Dr. Selina Stone The Sovereignty of Quiet: Beyond Resistance in Black Culture by Kevin Quashie Music Credit: Kingdom Come by Aaron Niequist Yesterday, Today, Forever from Music in Solitude Wait For You by Delwin Eiland Are you interested in learning more about Haven, our newest community offering from the Transforming Center? Haven is a community that meets alternately online and in person to create space for leaders to forge a stronger connection between their souls and their leadership. Each gathering (online and in-person) offers spiritual practices that increasingly open us to God over time. This new 18-month community experience will provide more intentional opportunities to engage with a diverse community of believers who are united around Christ. Learn more about dates and how to apply! Support the podcast! This season patrons will receive special bonus episodes with each guest, exploring different practices associated with Lent, such as solitude, self-examination, confession, and more. Become a patron today by visiting our Patreon page!     The Transforming Center exists to create space for God to strengthen leaders and transform communities. You are invited to join our next Transforming Community:® A Two-year Spiritual Formation Experience for Leaders.  Delivered in nine quarterly retreats, this practice-based learning opportunity is grounded in the conviction that the best thing you bring to leadership is your own transforming self! Learn more and apply HERE.   *this post contains affiliate links

On today's program, Bethany Christian Services is suing Michigan for religious discrimination after the state denied its contracts to resettle refugee families. We'll have details. And, as we recognize another solemn anniversary of 9/11, we look at one ministry helping military heroes win the war back at home. Plus, a new survey shows that giving to churches and charities is down—by a lot. But first, China has closed its foreign adoption program, leaving families devastated. The decision announced on September 5 by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning brings the 30-year program to an end, with exceptions for international residents adopting blood relatives or stepchildren. The program officially ended August 28.  The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. We get database and other technical support from Stephen DuBarry, Rod Pitzer, and Casey Sudduth. Writers who contributed to today's program include Bob Smietana, Kim Roberts, Bobby Ross Jr., Paul Clolery, Brittany Smith, and Christina Darnell. A special thanks to Religion UnPlugged and The NonProfit Times for contributing material for this week's podcast. Until next time, may God bless you.   MANUSCRIPT   FIRST SEGMENT Warren: Hello everybody. I'm Warren Smith, coming to you from Charlotte, North Carolina. Natasha: And I'm Natasha Cowden, coming to you from Denver, Colorado. And we'd like to welcome you to the MinistryWatch podcast. Warren: On today's program, Bethany Christian Services is suing Michigan for religious discrimination after the state denied its contracts to resettle refugee families. We'll have details. And, as we recognize another solemn anniversary of 9/11, we look at one ministry helping military heroes win the war back at home. Plus, a new survey shows that giving to churches and charities is down—by a lot. We'll take a look. Natasha: But first, China has closed its foreign adoption program, leaving families devastated. Warren: The decision announced on September 5 by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning brings the 30-year program to an end, with exceptions for international residents adopting blood relatives or stepchildren. The program officially ended August 28. Natasha: What's going to happen for families who were in the process of adopting? Warren: The State Department is “seeking written clarification from the [People's Republic of China] authorities regarding the impact on intercountry adoption cases already in process and will maintain close communication with Adoption Service Providers and prospective adoptive parents.” Lifeline Children's Services, the largest evangelical adoption ministry in the U.S., had about 48 families who had been matched with Chinese children and were in shock and disbelief at the news. Several of the families had met the children and spent time with them in their homes through a hosting program put on by Lifeline. Joshua Zhong and Lily Nie, two Chinese immigrants who founded Cherish Children Adoption International (CCAI), the largest adoption agency for Chinese children said China's program for international adoption was considered a model for the world with more transparency and less corruption than others. It had been praised by the United States government. Natasha: What's going to happen to the orphans in China? Warren: Zhong doesn't know whether they will receive the appropriate counseling, especially those who were expecting to be adopted. The Chinese program is better equipped with resources than it was 30 years ago. CCAI will continue its charitable efforts, including childcare, foster care, medical services, educational funds, and disaster relief to help the thousands of abandoned children in China. Natasha: Next, Bethany Christian Services sues the state of Michigan. Warren: Bethany Christian Services has filed a federal lawsuit against the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and th...

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” -Jeremiah 29:11   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you to care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach, talks with Dr. Kimberly Offutt. Kim is an inspirational speaker, author, child advocate, social worker, and adoptive parent. She began her career in child welfare as a foster care case manager for the State of Georgia. Dr. Kim has served at Bethany Christian Services for more than 20 years in various capacities in the child welfare field, advocating on behalf of children who are in foster care and available for adoption. She has developed statewide and national recruitment programs, led church engagement recruitment teams, and created innovative programs focused on youth most at risk of aging out of foster care.    As a speaker, leader, and program developer, Kimberly has used her unique personal and professional skills to impact the lives of children and families around the world. Kimberly and her husband, Dr. Marcus Offutt, have seven children (four adopted from foster care) and six grandchildren.   Listen in as Kim shares her passion for vulnerable children and families and offers hope to those of us on the journey.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com bethany.org They Need You Now—One Mother's Plea for the Church to Embrace Adoption Kim's Social Media:  FB DrKimberly Grace & Insta drkimberlygrace

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Foster care is intended to be a temporary solution to what should be a temporary problem. The goal is always reunification. But when parental rights have been terminated, the focus is to find families that meet the needs of the child, rather than finding children that fit the needs of the family. The child comes first! Hi Neighbor, Joining me on this episode of Anchors of Encouragement is my neighbor from Atlanta, Dr. Kimberly Offutt. Dr. Kim is an inspirational speaker, author, child advocate, social worker, and adoptive parent. She has served at Bethany Christian Services for more than 20 years in various capacities in the child welfare field, advocating on behalf of children who are in foster care and available for adoption. When Dr. Kim started with Bethany Christian Services, she was responsible for recruiting families to be foster and adoptive parents. As a recruiter, the first person she recruited was herself! Have you ever considered fostering or adopting? Dr. Kim's story is a testament to patience and love in adoption. Reflecting on adopting 4 children from foster care, she defies conventions and dispels myths about parenting and birth order. Tune in for her heartfelt insights. Hope and healing are on the way. Your Neighbor, Tim P.S. I want to invite you to be a part of our amazing community. Click this LINK to join today.

On today's show, Derrick Broze discusses his recent deep-dive into Bethany Christian Services, a non-profit that provides adoption and foster care services which has been accused of manipulation, negligence, and trafficking. Derrick also talks about 'Smart Cities' and '15-Minute Cities.' Later, Misty Winston reports on the breaking and disheartening news of Australian war crimes whistleblower David McBride being sentenced to almost 6 years and provides an update on Julian Assange's appeal to avoid extradition to the US. GUEST 1 OVERVIEW: Derrick Broze is an investigative journalist, documentary filmmaker, activist, and author from Houston, Texas. He is the founder of The Conscious Resistance Network and Cofounder of The Freedom Cell Network and The Greater Reset. You can follow him on X/Twitter at @DBrozeLiveFree and his articles can be found on TheConsciousResistance.com and thelastamericanvagabond.com GUEST 2 OVERVIEW: Misty Winston is an activist and host whose work has been focused on press freedom, free speech, and anti-imperialism - best-known for her work in support of Julian Assange. Misty's dedication to these important causes has made her a prominent figure in the fight for justice and human rights. She is the co-host of Action 4 Assange and has appeared as a featured speaker on a countless number of programs and events. You can follow her on X at @SarcasmStardust23

Welcome to The Daily Wrap Up, a concise show dedicated to bringing you the most relevant independent news, as we see it, from the last 24 hours (5/10/24). As always, take the information discussed in the video below and research it for yourself, and come to your own conclusions. Anyone telling you what the truth is, or claiming they have the answer, is likely leading you astray, for one reason or another. Stay Vigilant. !function(r,u,m,b,l,e){r._Rumble=b,r[b]||(r[b]=function(){(r[b]._=r[b]._||[]).push(arguments);if(r[b]._.length==1){l=u.createElement(m),e=u.getElementsByTagName(m)[0],l.async=1,l.src="https://rumble.com/embedJS/u2q643"+(arguments[1].video?'.'+arguments[1].video:'')+"/?url="+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+"&args="+encodeURIComponent(JSON.stringify([].slice.apply(arguments))),e.parentNode.insertBefore(l,e)}})}(window, document, "script", "Rumble");   Rumble("play", {"video":"v4rxlct","div":"rumble_v4rxlct"}); Video Source Links (In Chronological Order): Medical Coder Blows The Whistle On The COVID-19 Illusion Pfizer agrees to settle 10,000 lawsuits accusing pharma giant of hiding cancer risks of heartburn drug Zantac (30) Taylor Hudak on X: "Do not fall for this new, scripted re-writing of history regarding C19 jabs In Feb 2021, several drs & scientists wrote to EMA warning about the risks of blood clots, strokes, autoimmune disease & more in an effort to stop the harm! The EMA did nothing! https://t.co/C3Vi0jbkxG https://t.co/PpxU7g9YL6" / X (30) Tommy Mac on X: "I'm shocked, shocked I tell you! "Elon Musk's Neuralink chip malfunctions in first in-human brain implant" https://t.co/WRGmyqm0Vt via @nypost" / X Elon Musk's Neuralink chip suffers unexpected setback in first in-human brain implant Bethany Christian Services (32) The Last American Vagabond on X: "In the last week TLAV has been blocked from streaming on @instagram & unceremoniously deleted from @tiktok_us with zero explanation. This while we are being told it is ALLOWING negative content about Israel.. I guess until you prove it with source material, as usual. Nothing new. https://t.co/DHvn6U0MyH" / X New Tab (30) The Last American Vagabond on X: ""I have never seen a similar case of hundreds of bees attacking one person," Well they do say bees can smell fear

Description: In this episode, Pastor Tim sits down with Gretchen and Mandy from Bethany Christian Services to discuss how the church can support local families in crisis through their Safe Families program.  With several opportunities to serve, this is a ministry that anyone can get involved in. It's a must-listen for anyone who is considering foster care or adoption!

In this Faith in Life LifeBeat feature, Ken Stults, our Faith Outreach Coordinator, joins Tina, a mother who experienced unconditional love and support from her family, church community and Bethany Christian Services after an unplanned pregnancy. Tina describes how her church rallied around her and how God spoke to her, leading her to release her baby to a loving family. For more information on help services and adoption, check out our website https://rtl.org/pregnancy-help/.

Imagine being uprooted from everything you know, leaving behind your home and stepping into a world where the odds seem stacked against you. This is a reality for many refugees, stepping out of their homeland in search for a better life.   The journey is not an easy one, and can be more difficult when we have a vision in mind of what a fresh start will look like, but we're hit with a harsh reality check.   This was the experience for Vung Mang, a Burmese refugee who came to the US with nothing but determination.   How do we overcome situations where there seems to be no way out especially in a new and foreign place? How does this help us to improve mental toughness and drive?   In this episode, real estate broker, top 1% real estate agent in the Grand Rapids and Burmese refugee, Vung Mang shares his story of moving to the USA, how he overcame the challenges as a refugee and he's now helping people like himself not just survive but thrive in their new homeland.   I felt like I had to help people out, and that way I also got more connections and networking. -Vung Mang   Three Things You'll Learn In This Episode    -Pivot to find success When things don't go according to our expectations, how do we look for success and opportunities elsewhere?   -Networking and mentorship There are a lot more mentors today that are willing to help than there were in the past. How can we take advantage of that?   -A different world  What's the difference between real estate in Burma and the USA?   Guest Bio Born and raised in the small town of Kalay, Myanmar — formerly called Burma — Vung Mang weathered numerous challenges in life, but it didn't stop him from finding success. He immigrated to the United States as a refugee from a communist country, and despite trying a variety of jobs before and after he resettled in the U.S., he finally found his purpose in real estate by helping other people succeed in their goals as well. “Between learning survival skills in Myanmar and having to overcome all odds, I am appreciative of what I have and of every opportunity that life offers me here,” Vung said. While Vung still lived in Myanmar, he studied English and computer networking. He then became a computer salesperson before finding work as an insurance agent for three years. In 2008, Vung relocated to Michigan and became a case aid and translator at Bethany Christian Services. He met many people in the Burmese and Nepali communities as a result of his job where he assisted families as they settled into their new lives in America.   Due to his expanding network and his growing knowledge of the area, Vung was inspired to enter real estate. He began working at Five Star Real Estate in November of 2013 as a part-time agent while still aiding people through Bethany Christian Services, but three years later, Vung realized that his career in real estate could carry him into a brighter future than what he could have ever imagined.  “When I went full-time as an agent five years ago, it changed my whole life,” Vung recalled. “I have tried all sorts of investments, and I found that real estate sales and investments are the best.” Now an agent for over nine years, Vung has thrived in the industry. He sold 79 houses in 2022 and obtained over $24 million volume in sales, which contributed to his overall career volume of $94 million. For the past two years, he has been the #1 most-selling agent at Five Star Real Estate, and in 2022, he was ranked #35 out of over 3,000 agents in all of Grand Rapids. Vung also owns nine rentals — which contain 13 units — as well as his primary residence. One day, he hopes to possibly own a large apartment complex or commercial property. One day, Vung hopes to possibly own a large apartment complex or commercial property. Despite Vung's impressive achievements, he defines success as “helping people achieve their goals.” He is passionate about assisting past and current clients gain financial success through investment-property ownership, but most of all, he wants clients to remember him as a “fantastic agent who went above and beyond” and as someone who ensured that all of their transactions were completed on time. From his humble beginning in Myanmar to only having $20 in his name when he moved to Michigan 14 years ago, Vung has worked incredibly hard to become a top-producing agent and hopes that he can inspire others to go after their dreams, too. Find Vung on LinkedIn @Vung Mang

Another year has gone, and we greet a new one with reflective hearts. Parenting, like faith, is a constant remembering. We hope you take some time with us this week for a simple breath prayer to remember God's constant presence with us and another prayer asking for help in remembering the faithfulness of the God of the past and present. May you remember you are never alone.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

Merry Christmas, friends. Today, we celebrate Jesus embracing humanity—knit together in his mother's womb, coming into this world as a newborn, and being swaddled and held close to his mother. Pause with us today and this week to reflect on this extraordinary mystery, one that transcends any greeting card scene, holiday movie, or glittering Christmas tree. We hope that this offering helps you take a breath and reconnect with the gift of Christ, God with us, who knows what it's like to be human like us.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

The holidays aren't always the most wonderful time of year. For many, this season is wrapped up in grief and sorrow. This week features a prayer by guest liturgist Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young, a foodie, runner, speaker, podcaster, and the award-winning author of numerous books for kids of all ages. She is a remarried widow who is raising three daughters alongside her husband, Shawn. Join us this week as we ask the Creator God to hold us close during this season, asking for courage to hold the bitter and sweet as well as the pain and joy.   You can find Dorina's new devotional journal, Breathing Through Grief, here. You can also follow along with her through her website and Instagram at @dorinagilmore.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

Advent presents us with a sacred invitation: to embark inside an ancient story of what was and somehow is, too. Whether you are moving through this season by lighting Advent wreaths or engaging in other traditions, may you become more aware of the Light of the world. Pray with us as we ask Jesus to help us orient our hearts, letting this time spark anticipation and hope within ourselves and our children.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

The season of Advent has arrived. We invite you to slow down and soak in the anticipation of this time of year with two breath prayers. As you navigate the holidays and all of the bustle of shuttling kids to and from gatherings, filling up stockings, navigating travel logistics, and so on, we hope you lean into the tenderness of Christ.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

This time of year is often loaded with expectations. Many of us feel we need to come up with unique holiday cards, find the perfect Christmas gifts, make sure our homes look social-media worthy. These expectations can rob us of the joy and magic of the season. Join us in a prayer asking God to help us lay down these expectations, seeing the good things already around us.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

As we reflect on thankfulness this week, let us forgo the surface-level gratitude that seems pervasive in our consumer culture. Join us as we come to the God of goodness, giving thanks for all that is seen and unseen in our everyday lives. May our rhythms of gratitude be an outpouring of the love we have for God and one another, freeing us from the bondage of self and helping us embrace the beauty of community.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

The weight of parenting in a complicated and chaotic world can feel like so much, and it's easy to lose sight of the glimmers of God's glory around us. Join us as we pray for help in noticing and choosing to trust, even in the darkest moments. May you sense God's presence with you and your family and experience the gift of wonder, even when things seem overwhelming.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

This week, we spend time reflecting on All Saints' Day, a holy day that commemorates all the people of God who have gone before us. We invite you to consider what God may be speaking into your life of faith as you think of the faithful lives of others who have gone before you. We give thanks that we—and our children—are never alone and are surrounded by a great body of believers.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

Though we are not immune to fear—and there is much to fear in this world—we are not held captive by it. Pray with us this week as we ask the Light of the World to remind us that love and goodness have the final say, no matter how dark things feel. May we be comforted and also be a comfort to others, bringing light to the darkness together.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

Sometimes, praying feels hard to reach for. Maybe this is where you find yourself today or a feeling you often have. Perhaps your silence contains your prayers, or all you can manage to utter is a single sentence. This week, we offer a simple breath prayer and another short prayer asking the One who is with us to help us communicate love and compassion to those around us.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

We are not immune to the chaos that swirls around us. It's too tempting to want to stick our heads in the sand, to try to ignore the violence and conflict in the world, or to not do or say anything in order to “keep the peace.” Yet keeping the peace is not the same as being peacemakers: pursuing justice, healing, and wholeness. Join us as we come before the Prince of Peace, asking for help in being a peacemaker and raising peacemakers in a warring world.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

Sheala Durant is a writer, journalist and a working mom who was born in western Michigan in the late 1960s. She adopted into her family at a young age.Sheala launched a search for her biological parents at the age of 15 with a visit to Grand Rapids. Afterwards, at age 18 she asked Bethany (Christian) Services, her adoption agency, for non-identifying information. She learned she was abandoned in a hospital for six days and later placed in a foster home a few miles away from her biological family. Sheala, at age 22, learned her biological mother told her siblings she was stillborn.. This is how she started her reunion – returning from the dead.Sheala has been a staunch advocate for open records, adoptee causes, and rights. She co-facilitated the Adoption News Service (ANS) newsletter and is co-moderator of Black Adoptee Support and Education (BASE). She was featured in “Six Word Adoption Memoirs.”Music by Corey Quinn

Throughout scripture, we see that God deeply cares about welcoming the stranger, the refugee, and the foreigner. Yet how do we extend that welcome to the neighbors around us, amidst the busyness of parenting and the weight of distressing headlines? This week's prayer was written by Laura Hornby, a community liaison for We Welcome, a Christian group that provides educational resources, bipartisan action tools, and a supportive community for those seeking to take the next step in their advocacy for immigrants and refugees. Pray with us for a humble, generous, and curious spirit, so that we may choose welcome over self-preservation.   Learn more about We Welcome and their work by checking out their website and following them on Instagram.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of Kayla's first book, To Light Their Way, wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

As grown-ups, we can often unlearn the curiosity our children naturally have and express. They freely ask questions about anything from the ordinary to the disarmingly complex. Today, we're sharing a prayer about holy curiosity by guest liturgist Kat Armas. You're invited to pray alongside us as we ask the God of divine creativity to reconnect us to that precious spirit of curiosity so that we may see our reality anew.   Kat is a Cuban-American writer author, theologian, and speaker. You can grab her newest book, Sacred Belonging, here. You can also follow along with her work through her website and Instagram, @kat_armas.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual resources to help you grow into the parent you want to be, visit www.christianparenting.org.

It's officially autumn. Perhaps you're starting to notice the days getting a bit shorter or a certain crispness in the air coming through. As we witness trees burst into color and shed their leaves, may we join in this letting go and making space for new possibilities. We offer this prayer for fall, asking the God of all seasons to help us rest, marvel, and create dwelling places that are welcoming for our children and our neighbors.   Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, is out now! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.    You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

We've got exciting news: Kayla's newest book, Every Season Sacred, releases this week! This book is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. For this episode, we're sharing a blessing found at the beginning of Every Season Sacred about moving through the seasons of our faith and parenting with intention, wonder, and holy curiosity. May you find encouragement in these words.   Get your copy of Every Season Sacred here or wherever books are sold.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

One of the scariest truths about parenting is that so much is out of our control. As the new school year rolls along and our children experience invitations to independence, we're reminded that we can't always be there. In this episode, we're praying to remember God's trustworthiness and love—and how we might empower our children to experience all that God has written for them.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy before September 19, 2023, and get a collection of free gifts!    You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

Parenting can be a pressure cooker, revealing the limits of our humanity like nothing else. This week, we're praying for those of us raising “Spicy Ones,” a term our guest liturgist Mary Van Geffen coined. Mary is a friend and parenting coach who is well-versed in this area, and she sees raising a Spicy One™ as an invitation to grow our love for ourselves and our children. We hope this prayer encourages you to take a deep breath and experience the graciousness and extravagant love of an ever-patient God.   You can learn more about Mary's work by checking out her website and giving her a follow on Instagram at @maryvangeffen.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy before September 19, 2023, and get a collection of free gifts!    You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

When we practice pausing and holding still, do we also practice noticing? How often do we stop and pay attention—taking in the details of a moment, truly seeing the person in front of us, tuning our ears to what's beneath the noise? We invite you to come before the God of presence, praying that we would notice the life going on around us and be a family of noticers.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy before September 19, 2023, and get a collection of free gifts!    You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

There are countless moments we long to hold onto so that we remember them—your child waving bye to you as they step into their first day of school, watching them open presents on Christmas morning, a sweet smile stretching across their face one afternoon. We want to keep these memories close for the warmth, comfort, and joy they give us. This week, join us as we pray that the God of memory would help us remember what matters and to be awake to our lives and the people around us.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy before September 19, 2023, and get a collection of free gifts!    You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

What if Christian parenting wasn't about ensuring your children are obedient and using their obedience as a measurement of faith? For this week's episode, guest liturgist Meredith Miller shares a prayer with us about helping our children really know God and nurturing who they are. Her upcoming book Woven is for parents who want to pass along a resilient faith based on a genuine love for and trust in God. We hope this prayer speaks to you and reminds you that God sees your family and offers tiny invitations of grace in your ordinary lives.   You can pre-order Meredith's book here. Be sure to check out her website and follow her on Instagram.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy before September 19, 2023, and get a collection of free gifts!   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

What does it mean for our families to love our neighbors? It doesn't need to be grand gestures aimed at solving the world's most complex issues. Loving our neighbors can simply look like showing up in the world—ordering extra pizza to share with others, hosting a game of pickup basketball in your front yard, learning the names of those who live on your street, and so on. This week, join us in asking God for help in how to love our local and global neighbors the way Jesus did. May our families be known for cultivating friendship and peace.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy before September 19, 2023, and get a collection of free gifts!    You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

What if we reframed the interruptions we as parents experience? This week, we pause to consider how interruptions may be times when God is speaking to us. Perhaps they're actually invitations to pay attention. Join us as we ask the One who is always with us for help noticing the divine in all the parts of our lives, especially in the changed plans and disrupted routines.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy here.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

This week, we offer a prayer for those who serve and care for others. We come to the God who parents us, giving thanks for the ways in which we are so dearly loved as children. We ask for help to dwell in wonder so that we may never lose sight of the sacred in everything from sanctuaries to hospital rooms. May this prayer bless you, and may you minister out of your belovedness.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy here.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

In this Conversation episode, we're joined by four child welfare leaders to dive into the nuances, challenges and triumphs of pioneering foster care throughout the world. On the show is Ian Forber-Pratt from Children's Emergency Relief International, Tara Garcia from Identity Mission, Sebilu Bodja from Bethany Christian Services, and Martus Greyvenstein from Kin Culture. We'll dive into all the nitty-gritty of foster care including questions like "Is foster-to-adopt bad?" "How do you promote something that is completely foreign in many contexts?" and "What role does foster care play in getting kids out of orphanages?" In addition to the audio podcast, you can check out the video podcast on 1MILLIONHOME's new YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@1MILLIONHOMEofficial Podcast Sponsors Christian Alliance for Orphans Summit CAFO2023 is a gathering of more than 2,000 Christian orphan care leaders, parents and practitioners coming together from over 50 countries to worship and learn together. The event is September 20th-22nd in Oklahoma City. Register today! Resources and Links from the show Think Orphan Episode 181: Driving Innovation in Child Welfare with Ian Forber-Pratt Think Orphan Episode 30: Revolutionizing Orphan Care in India with Ian Forber-Pratt 1MILLIONHOME's new Youtube channel Conversation Notes Foster care across cultural contexts (14:00) Building awareness for foster care (17:00) Partnering with the local church in foster care (20:00) The importance of defining terms (27:00) Using what's working culturally (43:00) Recruiting families who root for the biological family (47:00) Pioneering care reform in Honduras (54:00) Collaboration between governments and organizations (59:00) The role of the local church (1:10:00)

Our guest liturgist for this episode is author, speaker, and songwriter Amanda Held Opelt, who writes about faith, grief, and creativity—believing in the power of community, ritual, shared worship, and storytelling to heal even our deepest wounds. Amanda wrote and shared this heartfelt prayer with us about coming before God with all of our apprehensions, asking for courage and guidance as we teach our children how to lament and worship, despite the fears we have.     You can listen to Kayla's interview with Amanda on the Holy Unhappiness Podcast here. Find Amanda on Instagram at @amandaheldopelt, and check out her newest book, Holy Unhappiness, here.    Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy here.    You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

For this week's episode, poet and speaker Tanner Olson shares a beautiful blessing with us in our waiting. Tanner's writing weaves together faith, questions, humor, and hope as he encourages us to slow down and remember that life is meant to be enjoyed, even amidst all of the unknowns. If you find yourself in a season of waiting, may these words speak to your heart and spirit.   Find Tanner on Instagram at @writtentospeak, and find his books here.    Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy here.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

As we take time to celebrate freedom this week, we invite you to reflect on what freedom means for you and what living into God's freedom looks like. May you and your family embrace a posture of abundance, extending love to others and working toward their flourishing.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy here.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

Whether you're setting off on a faraway destination, enjoying a staycation, or doing something in between, family vacations are an adventure. This week, we offer this prayer for your time together. May you savor the details of road trip snacks and unexpected pit stops and delight in the memories you're making with your children. May your family practice generosity and hospitality with those you meet along the way.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy here.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

Work and rest can feel at odds with each other, especially when we consider work through the lens of productivity and rest through the lens of retreat. But what if we took these concepts and instead rooted them in belovedness? This week's prayer comes from Justin McRoberts, a speaker, author, coach, musician, and podcast host. Join us for this special liturgy as we ask the One who calls us beloved to reshape our ideas of work and sabbath rest, letting them be pathways to knowing how deeply we are loved and how we may share perfect love with the world.   You can order Justin's book, Sacred Strides: The Journey to Belovedness in Work and Rest here. Follow him on Instagram at @justinmcroberts.   Kayla's new book, Every Season Sacred, is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy here.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

Summertime is here. The days stretch and often don't seem as hurried. Join us for this prayer from Kayla's upcoming book, Every Season Sacred. We ask the God of all seasons to help us be present to summer's ordinary moments and released from the pressure of producing the “perfect” summer for our family. May you be awake to the glory surrounding us in these coming months.   Every Season Sacred is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. Preorder your copy here.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

Could there be another way to be strong, something different from bearing every burden on our own? This week, writer, speaker, and licensed professional counselor Aundi Kolber has offered a prayer for those of us who are parenting while healing from our own trauma. We pray these words meet you and feel like a balm in the tenderest places of your heart.   You can order Aundi's book, Strong Like Water, here. Follow her and her work through her website and on Instagram at @aundikolber.   Kayla has a new book coming this September! Every Season Sacred is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. To learn more and preorder your copy, visit kaylacraig.com/newbook.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

With the end of the school year, we want to pause and offer a prayer to mark this transition. Join us in giving thanks, looking back on what was, and asking for compassion and curiosity for the world and all who live in it.   Kayla has a new book coming this September! Every Season Sacred is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. To learn more and preorder your copy, visit kaylacraig.com/newbook.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we've invited Korean American author Tasha Jun to lend us her words this week. In this prayer for belonging, we are reminded that we are not outsiders to God, who divinely knit us together. Let us pray to the One who makes visible what is kept invisible that our children would feel seen and that their stories—and ours as parents—would reflect their heritage and the hope and survival of those who came before.   You can follow Tasha on Instagram at @TashaJunB and find where to grab a copy of her stunning book Tell Me the Dream Again here.   Kayla has a new book coming this September! Every Season Sacred is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. To learn more and preorder your copy, visit kaylacraig.com/newbook.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

It's so easy to let “doing good” obscure our hearts, especially when it comes to trying to take care of children. While we so want to do what it takes to raise our children well, we also want for it to flow out of a clean heart. Let's pray together, asking God to renew and refresh our hearts and those of our children, so we may enter into rhythms of righteousness and justice, goodness, and peace.   Kayla has a new book coming this September! Every Season Sacred is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. To learn more and preorder your copy, visit kaylacraig.com/newbook.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

May marks another seasonal shift, as school years start to wind down and summer comes into view. Perhaps you're planning graduation parties, making vacation plans, or scheduling carpool for sports games. It certainly can feel like a lot—because it is a lot. Join us for a brief pause to reflect on God's presence through it all and ask for help to be awake to it.   Kayla has a new book coming this September! Every Season Sacred is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. To learn more and preorder your copy, visit kaylacraig.com/newbook.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.

We've got a special guest host for this week's episode: Jonny Craig, husband to Kayla, who was out sick during our time of recording (real life, right?). You're invited to pray with us about self-doubt, which so many parents experience. Let's ask the God of tender compassion for help in being gentle with ourselves and our children.   Kayla has a new book coming this September! Every Season Sacred is an invitation to ask big questions, embrace faithful rhythms, and experience God's mysterious, loving presence together. You don't have to have all the answers—and if we're honest, many answers aren't ours to have. This is the beauty of faith. To learn more and preorder your copy, visit kaylacraig.com/newbook.   You can check out Liturgies for Parents on Instagram for more prayers and encouragement and pick up your own copy of To Light Their Way wherever books are sold. For glimpses of Kayla's experiences with parenting and faith, find her on Instagram at @kayla_craig.   Subscribe to us on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. You can also help others find us by subscribing and leaving an honest review.   This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, Bethany Christian Services. Learn more about how—together—we can change the world through family by visiting bethany.org/kayla.   The Liturgies for Parents Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org.