No parents want to hear the words “I’m pregnant” uttered from the lips of their young daughter. But all too often, parents are forced into this reality and the decisions that come with it.

As Christians, we all hope our youth will make the choices that God desires from them. Yet, we also have to recognize that they, just like us, are human and will make mistakes along the way. Some of those mistakes result in a living consequence: a baby.

As we discussed in a recent blog, many young girls are never told that abortion is wrong or that adoption is a beautiful part of God’s plan. Once their choices lead to pregnancy, the responsibility of suggesting different options, including adoption, to the soon-to-be parents as well as their parents often falls to their trusted pastor. But first, you should know the differences between the varying adoption service providers, as we explained in a previous blog.

Families often consider attorneys for adoption purposes because they seem to be less costly. When using an attorney, the family will know the adoption is legally sound, but they will not have the counseling services of an agency. Also, because attorneys often charge by the hour, the cost tends to be higher than originally anticipated.

For numerous reasons, a Christian adoption agency is the best choice for a birthmother considering adoption. But the most important reason is the counseling she will receive from women who understand what she is going through. A true relationship is formed between the birthmother and the agency.

For young girls and their parents in a frightening situation, having the support of an agency as well as their friends and family can make all of the difference in the world. As her pastor or youth minister, directing the young birthmother and her family to an agency can be the turning point in her life as well as the life of the child.

Remember, you don’t have to have all of the answers. If you are struggling with counsel or believe the birthmother would benefit from a different perspective, contact a local adoption agency for help. If you have further questions, contact us at 662-842-6752.