A Special Event Planned To Honor Those Who Gave the Ultimate Gift -- Adoption
by Tricia Goss

Jochebed was. So was Hannah. They were “birthmothers” - women who bore children, loved them fiercely, and placed them to be raised by someone else. Each had unique reasons for doing so: Jochebed placed her precious baby Moses in a basket on the water to save his life; Hannah placed her long-awaited child Samuel with Eli to keep her promise to God.

Much like Jochebed and Hannah, every day women everywhere choose to place their beloved child with an adoptive family. Although some of their stories ring similar, each woman has a distinct set of circumstances for coming to this difficult decision. Yet they all courageously sacrifice their own desires and needs out of love for their children. These women choose to give their children a caring family, a stable home, a promising future. These women choose to give their children life.

Christian Family Care Agency believes that these loving and courageous women are worthy of being honored. With the support of other local social service agencies, CFCA hosts an annual luncheon on the eve of Mother’s Day to praise birthmothers and to shower them with God’s love.

A birthmother (name withheld) who regularly attends these luncheons feels blessed by them. “Every year I look forward to the Birthmother’s Day luncheon,” she says. “It is a time to come together with women like myself who are often forgotten and feel displaced on Mother’s Day. It is a time to share our stories, acknowledge our pains and embrace dignity and wholeness. It is an acknowledgement of our positions and importance in our child’s life. It is a day for me to celebrate my motherhood instead of feeling shame.”

CFCA Pregnancy Assistance Counselor Susan Dudley believes it is important to recognize these women. “In working with birthmothers for many years, I have seen the sacrifice they make and the strength they pull from deep within themselves to place a child for adoption,” she states. “Birthmothers are remarkable women. I am blessed to be a part of honoring them through the luncheon. I hope it brings some healing to their hearts.”

This year’s luncheon will be held on Saturday May 12th at First Evangelical Free Church. The event will include a catered four-course lunch, motivating speakers, gifts and a raffle. The luncheon is free to birthmothers, and they may invite a guest. Reservations are required. If you would like more information please call 296-8255.