| type="text/javascript"> | | | | to adopt must be made with prayer and the counsel |
| Depending on the circumstances, the cost of | | | | of mature and trusted Christians. Adoption offers a |
| adoption can range between nothing to $30,000. | | | | chance at a new beginning for many children cared |
| Adoption from the foster care system may not cost | | | | for by state and private agencies and international |
| anything at all and a subsidy may be available. | | | | orphan situations. The financial barriers to adoption |
| Adoption domestically or internationally can cost | | | | can seem overwhelming, but fortunately, we do not |
| between $10,000 to over $30,000. Some of these | | | | have to look at the outward appearance of things; |
| typical costs can include: adoption agency fees, | | | | we can look to the One who controls all the |
| attorney and legal fees, medical expenses, | | | | circumstances of our lives. Adoption is part of the |
| child-placement agency fees, court fees, filing fees, | | | | Great Commission, and we see that God's heart of |
| foster care/orphanage reimbursement, home study | | | | compassion for the fatherless is clearly expressed |
| and home study follow-up fees, locating fee (if | | | | throughout Scripture. We see adoption by believers |
| applicable), post-placement supervision expense, | | | | as "missions in reverse" because adoption provides an |
| finalization fees, birth mother expenses, travel | | | | opportunity to reach across the globe and bring |
| expenses, in-country travel and lodging (international), | | | | children into homes where Jesus is present and God's |
| government filing fees. Because the adoption of | | | | Word is central. |
| children needs to be planned, within reason, a decision | | | | |