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BLACK LIVES SACRED

Given the strident voices in our public square, we want to provide space for the faithful to find their own voice and sensibility. The birth of Black Lives Sacred (www.blacklivessacred.org) seeks to educate on the intersection of race and the gospel and mobilize and cultivate racial justice in their communities. There will be some excellent intellectual resources (see Pastor Dan Osborn’s brand new “Black lives are Sacred”, Pastor Nathan Payne’s earlier sermon “Making Peace is a Family Trait”, and Attorney Jonathan Harmon’s “My Father’s Advice”). There will be opportunities to get personally engaged and volunteer, and the ability to donate to partner ministries that are directly impacting Black lives in Chicago.

PARK ADOPTION FUND

Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34–35, ESV).

Throughout the history of the church, Christians have always been the leaders in adoption. Going back all the way to the very first days of the Christian Church. Throughout the Roman Empire Christians quickly became known as those who adopted. Their love for the orphan was particularly evident.

Today at Park Community Church there is a powerful movement of the Holy Spirit that is evident to many. God is stirring this church up to be leaders in the adoption conversation. Many couples have already stepped into the work of caring for orphans and children at risk through organizations like Safe Families, becoming foster parents, and also by adopting.

At Park, we believe that many are called to participate in caring for orphans through adoption. As a church we want to come around potential adoptive and foster parents and provide community, stability, and support. We also believe that finances should never be a barrier for a willing Christian family to enter into adoption. Today, adoption costs usually range between $25,000-35,000 depending on the adoption agency used and whether the adoption is domestic or international. That can be a huge barrier for many people considering adoption.

This is where there is a unique opportunity for our church to step in and support. Through the regular giving here at Park and in partnership with Renew Chicago, this adoption fund aims to come alongside adoptive parents to provide significant financial assistance in their pursuit of adoption. We want to remove finances from being a barrier for members of our Church to adopt. Our prayer is that we would stir one another up to radical love in the name of Jesus.