The Blessing of Adoption: A Conversation with the Hart Family
In this episode of The Defender Podcast, host Rick Morton sets the stage for a heartwarming conversation between Lifeline's Senior Director of International Adoption, Karla Thrasher, and special guests Amy and Jillian Hart. Listeners are invited into the intimate world of the Hart family's adoption journey, where Amy reflects on the decision to pursue international adoption and Jillian shares her experiences growing up as an adoptee from China. From insights into cultural heritage to invaluable advice for prospective adoptive families, this episode encapsulates the transformative power of love and resilience in the adoption journey. Amy and Jillian offer words of encouragement, inspiring families to trust in God's guidance and embrace the blessings of adoption.
GUESTS
Amy Hart is a devoted mother who made the life-changing decision, alongside her husband and children, to pursue international adoption. They have adopted twice from China, bringing home their daughter Jillian and son Joseph. Amy's experiences offer invaluable insights and advice for prospective adoptive families.
Jillian Hart is a Master of Physician Assistant Studies student at Samford University, passionate about an active lifestyle and finding the best iced latte in Birmingham. Profoundly impacted by her adoption through Lifeline Adoption Agency, Jillian shares her heartfelt experiences growing up as an adoptee from China.
HOST
Herbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.
CO-HOST
Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.
RESOURCES
Finances can be one of the largest barriers to moving forward with adoption. That’s why we are grateful for the Hope Adoption Fund, which provides financial help to families.
Because of generous donors, we are offering $1000 scholarships to families applying for a full international adoption program by June 30.
Families can begin the adoption process by visiting lifelinechild.org/begin.
LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES
The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples.
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Creators and Guests
Host
Rick Morton
As Vice President of Engagement, Rick Morton shepherds the ministry’s outreach to individual, church, and organizational ministry partners as well as the ministry’s commitment to publishing resources that aid families and churches in discipling orphans and vulnerable children. Prior to Lifeline, Rick served for 15 years as a college and seminary professor, and he also served local churches in Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi. He is an accomplished writer and sought after speaker. Most notably, Rick is the co-author of the popular Orphanology: Awakening to Gospel-centered Adoption and Orphan Care and the author of KnowOrphans: Mobilizing the Church for Global Orphanology. Rick and his lovely wife Denise have been married for over 32 years, and they have 3 children, all of whom joined their family through international adoption. God has continued to grow their family, and he now enjoys the role of “Doc” to his precious granddaughter!
Guest
Amy Hart
Amy Hart is a devoted mother who made the life-changing decision, alongside her husband and children, to pursue international adoption, bringing her daughter Jillian into their family. Her experiences offer invaluable insights and advice for prospective adoptive families.
Guest
Jillian Hart
Jillian Hart is currently pursuing a Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Samford University. Outside of her academic commitments, she is passionate about maintaining an active lifestyle and enjoys socializing with friends. She is also on a quest to discover the best iced latte in Birmingham. Jillian has been profoundly and joyfully influenced by her experience with adoption through Lifeline Adoption Agency, for which she is immensely grateful.
Guest
Karla Thrasher
Karla Thrasher is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a licensed social worker. She is also a TBRI® Practitioner, certified by the TCU Karen Purvis Institute of Child Development. Karla has been on staff at Lifeline since 2001 and currently serves as the Director of International Adoption. In her role, Karla is privileged to manage the day to day of Lifeline’s International Department and provide leadership to the international team. She coordinates with other Lifeline departments and outside ministry partners to better serve waiting children and families. Some of the specific focuses in Karla’s role at Lifeline are government compliance, customer service and quality assurance. She considers it a great honor to share the gospel through the gift of adoption! Karla lives in Birmingham, AL with her husband Jamie. They have three adult children. Karla’s family are her biggest cheerleaders in her ministry at Lifeline.