Choosing an adoption agency is one of the most significant decisions you will make on your journey toward growing your family. A Gospel-centered agency does more than just process paperwork; it partners with you spiritually, providing a biblical framework for the entire process. To find the right fit, look for an organization that prioritizes the dignity of birth parents, the welfare of the child, and a clear commitment to the Great Commission. By asking the right questions, you can ensure your agency’s values align with your family’s mission to reflect the love of Jesus.
Look for a Clear Theological Foundation
A truly Gospel-centered agency should be able to articulate why they do what they do from a biblical perspective. Check their mission statement and core values. Do they view adoption as a mandate from God or simply a professional service? The best agencies treat their work as a ministry, offering prayer support and biblical counseling for both adoptive and birth parents. When an agency is grounded in Scripture, they are better equipped to handle the ethical complexities of adoption with integrity and grace.
Colossians 3:23 Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.
Evaluate How They Treat Birth Parents
One of the clearest indicators of a Christ-centered agency is the way they care for birth mothers and fathers. A Gospel-centered approach honors the Imago Dei in everyone involved. Look for an agency that provides long-term counseling, financial transparency, and genuine emotional support for birth parents, rather than treating them as a means to an end. An agency that loves the “least of these” will ensure that birth parents are empowered, respected, and heard throughout the entire process and beyond.
Prioritize Post-Placement Support and Education
Adoption is a lifelong journey, and the challenges don’t end the day the child comes home. A reputable Christian agency will emphasize the importance of trauma-informed training and post-placement resources. They should help you understand the spiritual and emotional needs of a child who has experienced loss. If an agency “disappears” once the fees are paid and the child is placed, they aren’t fully invested in the long-term health of your family. Look for a partner that offers ongoing community and resources to help you parent with Gospel-resilience.
Transparency in Costs and Ethics
Integrity is a fruit of the Spirit, and it should be highly visible in an agency’s financial dealings. A Gospel-centered agency should be completely transparent about their fee structure. Avoid organizations that seem to “sell” children or use manipulative marketing tactics. Instead, seek out those that are non-profit and can explain exactly how your fees are used—whether for legal costs, birth parent medical care, or staff support. Financial honesty is a non-negotiable trait for any organization representing the name of Christ.
Proverbs 11:1 The Lord detests the use of dishonest scales, but he delights in accurate weights.
Connection to the Local Church
A strong Christian adoption agency often works in tandem with local churches or global mission organizations. They should encourage you to be active in your own church community, recognizing that you will need a support system to succeed. Ask if they have partnerships with orphan care ministries or if they provide resources for your church’s small groups. An agency that values the local church understands that adoption is a mission of the entire Body of Christ, not just a private family matter.
The Takeaway
Choosing a Gospel-centered adoption agency means finding a partner that shares your heart for the vulnerable and your commitment to Jesus. The right agency will challenge you, support you, and hold you to a high ethical standard. While the process can be overwhelming, a biblically-minded agency will remind you that God is the ultimate provider and that His timing is perfect. Take your time, ask the hard questions, and pray for discernment as you select the team that will walk beside you on this sacred path.
