We’re not all called to do the same thing, but we are all capable of doing something. Everyone can do something! This truth is probably most practically demonstrated and lived out when we provide opportunities for people in our church to tangibly wrap around and support foster families. It creates an avenue through which they can identify their “something” and act on it for the good of children and families around them. So, why is tangible support so crucial for families who are opening their homes to children? What kinds of support do they actually need? How do we as church leaders ensure that those who are serving know that even simple things they do can make a significant impact in the life of a foster family? What structures must we consider putting in place to support the “everyone can do something” message in our church? Questions like these, among others, are important ones for us as church leaders to consider as we take steps towards becoming more actively engaged in foster care.
In episode 4 of The Fostering Church Podcast, the Jasons talk with Sarah Norris, the leader of True Vine Ministries, the adoption and foster support ministry of her church in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Sarah not only has experienced the power of others tangibly supporting her family through their adoption, but has helped build a robust and practical support ministry for families in their church and all around the Fort Wayne community.
Sarah powerfully articulates the importance of the tangible support pillar in any church-based foster care ministry. After listening to her share beautiful stories and practical pieces of insight, you will walk away feeling encouraged and challenged to take your next best steps towards tangibly supporting families in simple but meaningful ways.
Key Quote
“If you have someone who needs to better understand the ‘why’ of supporting foster families, my number one tip for people is always get them in proximity to a foster family."
Resources and Guests
In 2008, alongside a core team of people in the North Houston area, Jason had the privilege of planting and leading a church with the Acts29 Network through which we founded a non-profit committed to serving, supporting and equipping foster and adoptive families in the city of Houston. In 2013, combined with 14 years of church-based ministry and leadership experience and his family’s foster and adoptive journey, Jason began working for an organization helping church leaders implement structures and strategies of ministry within their churches and developing resources to encourage and support foster and adoptive parents along their journeys. This ultimately led him to his current role as the Director of Church Ministry Initiatives with Christian Alliance for Orphans.
