By Baptist Message staff
KYIV, Ukraine (LBM) – Several Louisiana Baptist families have asked the faith community to join them in prayer as they attempt to finalize the adoption of their Ukrainian children.
Russia invaded the country on Feb. 24, and the action subsequently may delay the adoption process.
Sherrie Albritton, minister to children at Fair Park Baptist Church, West Monroe, her husband, Kirk, and four other individuals operate International Host Connection, a non-profit organization that places Ukrainian children with host home families in the United States for an unspecified amount of time, with the end goal being adoption.
She said some of the families who have worked through their organization have been approved for adoption in the next month, but now face possible delays.
“I ask that you pray for the orphanages that we have close contacts with as they try to move the children to safety,” Albritton told the Baptist Message. “And pray for the children and their health. Many children are sick and need medication but have no way to get it.
“Finally, please lift up our missionaries that have chosen to stay and minister to the Ukrainian people and pray that Christians will turn to Him during this time,” continued Albritton, who along with her husband previously adopted four Ukrainian children.
“As Ukrainians are taking shelter, so much has already been taken from them. They love their country. It is heartbreaking to watch what is going on at the present time,” she said. “As I lay awake praying for our Ukrainian children and friends, I also ask you bring these petitions to our Heavenly Father. Pray without ceasing for our orphans, families in the adoption process, orphanages, officials, our facilitators, and friends. Pray for God’s hand of protection over them.”
Jasmine Hoychick, administrative assistant at Beauregard Baptist Association and the wife of Jason Hoychick, pastor of Westview Baptist Church, DeRidder, said her family has applied for an emergency visa that could help expediate the adoption of two Ukrainian children.
“We will need favor from the officials to let the kids come to America,” Hoychick said. “We also need help with expenses to get them here. Adoption status has been put on hold for now. Information is hard to get as of now. We are in communication with a lawyer there but officially he doesn’t know anything for now.”
Hannah Romero, the wife of Brent Romero, pastor of Friendship Baptist Church, Pine Grove, said her family has been praying for God’s peace as they enter the final stages of their child’s adoption.
“We are scared, and our boy is scared,” she said. “We know God is in control, but the future is very uncertain right now. It is quite humbling to know that there is very little we can do to help. We know the safest place for him is here with us, but it is very expensive. We need help to get him home.”
