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KnowOrphans: Mobilizing the Church for Global Orphanology
The global orphan crisis is complex. The church’s response should be comprehensive, but is it? In this provocative follow-up to Orphanology, author Rick Morton provides the framework for families and churches to have a gospel-centered response to the growing global issue of orphan care. KnowOrphans addresses three distinct areas associated with global orphanology. Delving deeper into the criticisms of the movement, the need for reform, and what families can expect, author Rick Morton helps shape realistic perceptions of the challenges and rewards adoptive parents face in transnational adoptions. Through illuminating the work internationally adoptive families can expect, KnowOrphans offers solutions for the church in remedying the ills and deficiencies surrounding the church’s role in equipping and supporting families before, during, and after the adoption process. Knowing that the church’s response and attitude should be one that goes beyond adoption, KnowOrphans also addresses the complexities of how Christians are to respond ethically, compassionately, and comprehensively to the biblical call to care for orphans. KnowOrphans is the next step in conversation as this evangelically based movement of orphan care matures and begins to live out James 1:27 globally.
192 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
1 person is currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
Rick Morton
8 books11 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
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About the Author:
Rick Morton is Vice President of Engagement for Lifeline Children's Services, one of the nation's leading Christian adoption and orphan care ministries. He is married to Denise and they are the parents of 3 children who joined their family through adoption from Ukraine.
Together, the Mortons were a part of co-founding Promise 139, an international orphan-hosting ministry based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. In addition to local church ministry, Morton has spent more than a decade as a college and seminary professor.
Rick has served on the faculties on New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Bryan College and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary teaching in the areas of youth ministry, Christian education and leadership, and he was one of the co-founders of Clarity Publishers, innovators of the Student Life and Life Bible Studies which were the first online Bible study series for students and adults. Morton is a preacher, conference leader and author with numerous articles and books to his credit.
This is Rick^Morton, where ^=space. (default profile)
About the Author:
Rick Morton is Vice President of Engagement for Lifeline Children's Services, one of the nation's leading Christian adoption and orphan care ministries. He is married to Denise and they are the parents of 3 children who joined their family through adoption from Ukraine.
Together, the Mortons were a part of co-founding Promise 139, an international orphan-hosting ministry based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. In addition to local church ministry, Morton has spent more than a decade as a college and seminary professor.
Rick has served on the faculties on New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Bryan College and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary teaching in the areas of youth ministry, Christian education and leadership, and he was one of the co-founders of Clarity Publishers, innovators of the Student Life and Life Bible Studies which were the first online Bible study series for students and adults. Morton is a preacher, conference leader and author with numerous articles and books to his credit.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
December 18, 2015
In order to help orphans, we must know orphans. That's the premise author Rick Morton builds on in this book. How are we supposed to know orphans. How can we as individuals and as a church reach out to vulnerable children? How are we supposed to navigate the complications and turmoil surrounding orphan care and adoption?
This book is written as a guide for how to understand and mobilize towards knowing and helping orphans. It covers a wide range of topics. Almost too wide. I felt the book lacked some of the focus needed to make it live up to its full potential. It probably isn't a great "beginning" book to read on the subject. However, if you already have enough of a foundational understanding to keep up with the switches between discussing. individual possibilities, church responsibility, parachurch ministries, and adoption this is a good book to use as a brainstorming springboard. I especially appreciated the chapter discussing some of the critisms the Christian orphan-care and adoption movement has been receiving. While this book was a little hard to get through the first time, I'm sure I'll be referring back to it over and over again.
Visit http://www.newhopedigital.com/2013/09... to learn more.
Note: I received a free review copy of this book in exchange for a review reflecting my honest perspective on the book.
This book is written as a guide for how to understand and mobilize towards knowing and helping orphans. It covers a wide range of topics. Almost too wide. I felt the book lacked some of the focus needed to make it live up to its full potential. It probably isn't a great "beginning" book to read on the subject. However, if you already have enough of a foundational understanding to keep up with the switches between discussing. individual possibilities, church responsibility, parachurch ministries, and adoption this is a good book to use as a brainstorming springboard. I especially appreciated the chapter discussing some of the critisms the Christian orphan-care and adoption movement has been receiving. While this book was a little hard to get through the first time, I'm sure I'll be referring back to it over and over again.
Visit http://www.newhopedigital.com/2013/09... to learn more.
Note: I received a free review copy of this book in exchange for a review reflecting my honest perspective on the book.
January 11, 2020
I read this back in 2014/2015, so I'm not really sure why I never updated it...It was a good read, I believe. Need to revisit it.
March 20, 2017
Not really much of a book --- a couple of anecdotes and then suggested resources. I am very interested in the topic, but I feel like the authored underdelivered.
March 24, 2014
About the Book:
The global orphan crisis is complex. The church's response should be comprehensive, but is it? In this provocative follow-up to Orphanology, author Rick Morton provides the framework for families and churches to have a gospel-centered response to the growing global issue of orphan care. KnowOrphans addresses three distinct areas associated with global orphanology. Delving deeper into the criticisms of the movement, the need for reform, and what families can expect, author Rick Morton helps shape realistic perceptions of the challenges and rewards adoptive parents face in transnational adoptions.
Through illuminating the work internationally adoptive families can expect, KnowOrphans offers solutions for the church in remedying the ills and deficiencies surrounding the church's role in equipping and supporting families before, during, and after the adoption process. Knowing that the church's response and attitude should be one that goes beyond adoption, KnowOrphans also addresses the complexities of how Christians are to respond ethically, compassionately, and comprehensively to the biblical call to care for orphans. KnowOrphans is the next step in conversation as this evangelically based movement of orphan care matures and begins to live out James 1:27 globally.
About the Author:
Rick Morton is the father of three transnational adopted children and coauthor of the popular book Orphanology: Awakening to Gospel-Centered Adoption and Orphan Care. His dedication to the plight of orphans extends beyond his own family. The Mortons were cofounders of Promise 139, an international orphan-hosting ministry based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. An inspiring speaker for the gospel to be expressed by the church living out God’s heart for the fatherless, Rick presents at adoption and orphan-care conferences and pastor’s conferences. Rick and his family live in the Greater Memphis area.
My Review:
The voices of orphans all across the world are without a voice. Without a voice--that is until Rick Morton jumped on the scene to help a growing epidemic. Children without parents or family, across the world need our help. The church can pool its resources and help these children in multiple ways that will span generations. The author lets us know where, when, and how we can help a growing population of parentless kids get the help they need.
The author also gives you advice that you can use to find an agency to help get you started in the process. As well as helping you with the first visit to your home with your newest child. God wants us to help them and sometimes we maybe the only way they ever see Jesus lived out.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Litfuse.
The global orphan crisis is complex. The church's response should be comprehensive, but is it? In this provocative follow-up to Orphanology, author Rick Morton provides the framework for families and churches to have a gospel-centered response to the growing global issue of orphan care. KnowOrphans addresses three distinct areas associated with global orphanology. Delving deeper into the criticisms of the movement, the need for reform, and what families can expect, author Rick Morton helps shape realistic perceptions of the challenges and rewards adoptive parents face in transnational adoptions.
Through illuminating the work internationally adoptive families can expect, KnowOrphans offers solutions for the church in remedying the ills and deficiencies surrounding the church's role in equipping and supporting families before, during, and after the adoption process. Knowing that the church's response and attitude should be one that goes beyond adoption, KnowOrphans also addresses the complexities of how Christians are to respond ethically, compassionately, and comprehensively to the biblical call to care for orphans. KnowOrphans is the next step in conversation as this evangelically based movement of orphan care matures and begins to live out James 1:27 globally.
About the Author:
Rick Morton is the father of three transnational adopted children and coauthor of the popular book Orphanology: Awakening to Gospel-Centered Adoption and Orphan Care. His dedication to the plight of orphans extends beyond his own family. The Mortons were cofounders of Promise 139, an international orphan-hosting ministry based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. An inspiring speaker for the gospel to be expressed by the church living out God’s heart for the fatherless, Rick presents at adoption and orphan-care conferences and pastor’s conferences. Rick and his family live in the Greater Memphis area.
My Review:
The voices of orphans all across the world are without a voice. Without a voice--that is until Rick Morton jumped on the scene to help a growing epidemic. Children without parents or family, across the world need our help. The church can pool its resources and help these children in multiple ways that will span generations. The author lets us know where, when, and how we can help a growing population of parentless kids get the help they need.
The author also gives you advice that you can use to find an agency to help get you started in the process. As well as helping you with the first visit to your home with your newest child. God wants us to help them and sometimes we maybe the only way they ever see Jesus lived out.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Litfuse.
April 5, 2014
This was an extremely informative book! It was very obvious that Rick Morton did tons of research before putting this book together and making sure he had his information right as well as people's stories/testimonies that he could share about certain issues!
I really feel that one of Rick's main goals in writing "KnowOrphans" was to show readers that their is a global orphan care and adoption movement happening right now. He was extremely successful in showing me this movement spreading as well as convincing me that I too can get involved! I have usually always thought that the best way to help orphans is to adopt, but Rick makes a very clear point that adoption is not for everyone and there are many other ways to help orphans. He gives quite a bit of information about many organizations that are helping orphans and how churches can get involved with them.
Rick not only equips people with knowledge in really living out James 1:27, but he greatly encourages readers through his own adoption story and help in orphan care! He gives ways and ideas to deal with criticism and most importantly advice to seek God during these times concerning the orphan care movement!
Overall this was a very eye-opening and informative book! He truly informs the church with knowledge that leaves no room for excuses of NOT to get involved in this movement! The only thing I would have wish was included in this book is information about helping orphans in the United States as well. I know there are orphans who are in worse condition/places then orphans here in the states, but I think it's important for the church to also help these children too in our own country.
I give "KnowOrphans" a 4.5 out of 5 stars!
*I received this book free from the Litfuse Publicity and New Hope Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*
I really feel that one of Rick's main goals in writing "KnowOrphans" was to show readers that their is a global orphan care and adoption movement happening right now. He was extremely successful in showing me this movement spreading as well as convincing me that I too can get involved! I have usually always thought that the best way to help orphans is to adopt, but Rick makes a very clear point that adoption is not for everyone and there are many other ways to help orphans. He gives quite a bit of information about many organizations that are helping orphans and how churches can get involved with them.
Rick not only equips people with knowledge in really living out James 1:27, but he greatly encourages readers through his own adoption story and help in orphan care! He gives ways and ideas to deal with criticism and most importantly advice to seek God during these times concerning the orphan care movement!
Overall this was a very eye-opening and informative book! He truly informs the church with knowledge that leaves no room for excuses of NOT to get involved in this movement! The only thing I would have wish was included in this book is information about helping orphans in the United States as well. I know there are orphans who are in worse condition/places then orphans here in the states, but I think it's important for the church to also help these children too in our own country.
I give "KnowOrphans" a 4.5 out of 5 stars!
*I received this book free from the Litfuse Publicity and New Hope Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*
March 16, 2014
Rick Morton lets you know up front that he did not initially want to adopt. He was somewhat apprehensive. He realized turning to the bible on adoption of orphans is where the answer would be found.
Mr. Morton states, “God began to consume our attention with Ukraine over the next few months.” Rick and his wife began the process of adoption for an orphan from the Ukraine. He explains their first step was meeting with a social worker. They also had plenty of reading material to go through and seminars to attend.
Mr. Morton discusses the connection between global orphan care and the Gospel. He references teachings of Jesus and his engagement of widows, orphans, and sojourners. Biblical chapters used are Jeremiah 7, Deuteronomy 10 and 14.
He further discusses that men take part in this mission. With so many orphans globally, there is an immediate need for male role models in their lives.
Titus 1:15-16 and Acts 20:28-30 are used to discuss abuse and corruption in the church and world. Mismanagement and corruption in adoption agencies must continually be policed.
Mr. Morton shares information on the transnational adoption procedures, the need to care for orphans globally, and the biblical reasoning for attempting this fete.
Although I consider transnational adoption a good gesture, I believe you should take care of home first. There are orphan children in the United States of America that need just as much care. My suggestion would be adopting in the United States first, then adopt abroad.
I recommend this book for readers who want additional insight to adopting transnational. Also, recommended to church missionary ministry personnel.
I received this book free from New Hope Publishers through the Litfuse Reviewer Program for an unbiased opinion.
Mr. Morton states, “God began to consume our attention with Ukraine over the next few months.” Rick and his wife began the process of adoption for an orphan from the Ukraine. He explains their first step was meeting with a social worker. They also had plenty of reading material to go through and seminars to attend.
Mr. Morton discusses the connection between global orphan care and the Gospel. He references teachings of Jesus and his engagement of widows, orphans, and sojourners. Biblical chapters used are Jeremiah 7, Deuteronomy 10 and 14.
He further discusses that men take part in this mission. With so many orphans globally, there is an immediate need for male role models in their lives.
Titus 1:15-16 and Acts 20:28-30 are used to discuss abuse and corruption in the church and world. Mismanagement and corruption in adoption agencies must continually be policed.
Mr. Morton shares information on the transnational adoption procedures, the need to care for orphans globally, and the biblical reasoning for attempting this fete.
Although I consider transnational adoption a good gesture, I believe you should take care of home first. There are orphan children in the United States of America that need just as much care. My suggestion would be adopting in the United States first, then adopt abroad.
I recommend this book for readers who want additional insight to adopting transnational. Also, recommended to church missionary ministry personnel.
I received this book free from New Hope Publishers through the Litfuse Reviewer Program for an unbiased opinion.
July 28, 2016
''Orphan ministry is not about us. If you need to feel good, go and volunteer at an animal shelter...''
Author Rick Morton shares the urgency laid on his heart concerning the problem of orphans worldwide and their future and well-being.
Through several chapters, this father of three adopted children focuses in turn on the Biblical reason for taking care of the ''fatherless'', how we can help a ministry for oprhans begin or thrive, how to see our role in the problem, the different ways one can help orphans, helping an orphan make the switch and thrive emotionally in his new enviroment, and details on the actual transnational adoption process.
This was quite a factual book. The information was very practical especially for those who feel called to actually make an adoption. It seemed that a full half of the book focuses on already established ministries designed to help orphans.
As I read through this new book by Mr. Morton, I was yet again reminded of how much we take for granted- and how much we waste. We live in luxury, especially compared to the majority of peoples around the world. Just think- there are real little children all over this world needing nutrition, love and guidance! Let's take a serious moment-or more- to see what God wants us to do to help!
Author Rick Morton shares the urgency laid on his heart concerning the problem of orphans worldwide and their future and well-being.
Through several chapters, this father of three adopted children focuses in turn on the Biblical reason for taking care of the ''fatherless'', how we can help a ministry for oprhans begin or thrive, how to see our role in the problem, the different ways one can help orphans, helping an orphan make the switch and thrive emotionally in his new enviroment, and details on the actual transnational adoption process.
This was quite a factual book. The information was very practical especially for those who feel called to actually make an adoption. It seemed that a full half of the book focuses on already established ministries designed to help orphans.
As I read through this new book by Mr. Morton, I was yet again reminded of how much we take for granted- and how much we waste. We live in luxury, especially compared to the majority of peoples around the world. Just think- there are real little children all over this world needing nutrition, love and guidance! Let's take a serious moment-or more- to see what God wants us to do to help!
April 23, 2014
The ministry of orphans is an often overlooked and under-appreciated ministry within the church. Generally, churches may mention is one or two times per year, but it is not seen as a genuine ministry. I applaud the author for bringing his expertise and experience to this vital topic, and he certainly is cognizant of the different facets of this ministry. After reading this book, a church would be able to quickly discover and implement the techniques and strategies covered within the book.
Unfortunately, this book was somewhat boring and tedious at times. While it is true that I have not read the author's first book of orphans, I still would have preferred more personal stories. I am certain that the author shared more of his story in the first book, but I was searching for that personal touch in this book as well. Although the important resources are contained within this book, I was not searching for facts. I needed connection to make this story come to life in a meaningful way.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
Unfortunately, this book was somewhat boring and tedious at times. While it is true that I have not read the author's first book of orphans, I still would have preferred more personal stories. I am certain that the author shared more of his story in the first book, but I was searching for that personal touch in this book as well. Although the important resources are contained within this book, I was not searching for facts. I needed connection to make this story come to life in a meaningful way.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
March 13, 2016
Review originally posted on i blog 4 books: http://iblog4books.blogspot.com/2014/...
Know Orphans is a great follow up to Orphanology, a collaboration between Tony Merida and Rick Morton. Where Orphanology gives readers the "theology" behind orphan care, Know Orphans gives practical steps that individuals and churches can take to put this theology into action.
This book is both informative and a great encouragement to do something. Rick shares from his personal experiences, which adds a great personal touch to the book. I also appreciated that he goes beyond simply talking about adoption, which is what most people think of when they think of orphan care. I also appreciated the emphasis on the church's role in leading this movement.
Know Orphans is highly recommended to anyone seeking to follow God's commands for taking care of the least of these. [4 stars]
I received a free copy of this book from New Hope Publishers through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Know Orphans is a great follow up to Orphanology, a collaboration between Tony Merida and Rick Morton. Where Orphanology gives readers the "theology" behind orphan care, Know Orphans gives practical steps that individuals and churches can take to put this theology into action.
This book is both informative and a great encouragement to do something. Rick shares from his personal experiences, which adds a great personal touch to the book. I also appreciated that he goes beyond simply talking about adoption, which is what most people think of when they think of orphan care. I also appreciated the emphasis on the church's role in leading this movement.
Know Orphans is highly recommended to anyone seeking to follow God's commands for taking care of the least of these. [4 stars]
I received a free copy of this book from New Hope Publishers through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.
April 2, 2014
the title of the book reminds us that most orphans are unknown, voiceless. Morton believes God is on the move and wants individuals and churches to get on board. He shares his own experience, develops a theology of orphan care, walks the reader through the entire process of international adoption, covers possible problems of adopted children, and answers critics. This is a very good resource for individuals and churches who want to get involved in the orphan process. I didn't know that one ministry has a program where people here can fund an indigenous adoption in Ukraine for $500. So there are many possibilities.
See my full review at http://bit.ly/1pQ9bgE.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through a publicity group for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
See my full review at http://bit.ly/1pQ9bgE.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through a publicity group for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
April 14, 2014
I appreciated his multi-faceted approach to orphan care and that he included the importance of caring for families BEFORE children become orphans as well as children in need who are not technically orphaned.
Full review here: http://www.raisingthebarrs.com/2014/0...
Full review here: http://www.raisingthebarrs.com/2014/0...
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews