When Protection Becomes the Problem
Welcome back to The Table! In this second episode, Rick Morton gathers with Emily Richards and Herbie Newell to continue our vital discussions on child welfare. We explore various aspects of the child protection system and the critical role of family support in these complex situations. Join us as we dive deeper into the world of foster care and adoption.
In this episode, the group discusses the complexities of the child welfare system, the role of faith-based organizations, and the importance of community engagement. They explore the challenges faced by vulnerable children and families, the need for hope and transformation, and the church's responsibility to advocate for change. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Ben Sasse and the call to live purposefully in a chaotic world.
Takeaways:
The child welfare system faces significant challenges that require community engagement.
Microdosing hope can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable families.
The church has a vital role in advocating for children and families in need.
Navigating the tension between children's rights and parental rights is crucial.
Engaging with policy can help shape a better future for child welfare.
Ben Sasse's legacy serves as a reminder to live purposefully and engage in public life.
Every interaction with a vulnerable child is an opportunity for transformation.
The church must not retreat in the face of societal challenges.
Finding community and support is essential in the work of child welfare.
Living with intention and purpose is vital in today's chaotic culture.
In this episode, the group discusses the complexities of the child welfare system, the role of faith-based organizations, and the importance of community engagement. They explore the challenges faced by vulnerable children and families, the need for hope and transformation, and the church's responsibility to advocate for change. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Ben Sasse and the call to live purposefully in a chaotic world.
Takeaways:
The child welfare system faces significant challenges that require community engagement.
Microdosing hope can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable families.
The church has a vital role in advocating for children and families in need.
Navigating the tension between children's rights and parental rights is crucial.
Engaging with policy can help shape a better future for child welfare.
Ben Sasse's legacy serves as a reminder to live purposefully and engage in public life.
Every interaction with a vulnerable child is an opportunity for transformation.
The church must not retreat in the face of societal challenges.
Finding community and support is essential in the work of child welfare.
Living with intention and purpose is vital in today's chaotic culture.
Creators and Guests
Host
Herbie Newell
Herbie Newell serves as the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services, holds an MBA in Accounting from Samford University and brings years of experience from his work as an independent auditor at WAKM Companies, LLC. Serving as Lifeline's Executive Director since 2003, Herbie has significantly expanded international outreach, obtained licensure in 17 states, and led the establishment of the foster care arm. A passionate advocate, he co-founded (un)adopted in 2009, focusing on equipping orphaned children with life skills for community transformation. Herbie, also the author of "Image Bearers: Shifting from Pro-birth to Pro-Life," emphasizes that being pro-life extends beyond opposing abortion, urging a broader ethic that includes fighting for racial equality and embracing every individual with the love of Christ. Herbie and his wife, Ashley, reside in Birmingham, Alabama, and are the parents to three children.
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
Emily Chapman Richards
Emily Chapman Richards serves as Advisor & Ambassador for Show Hope, a nationally recognized voice in adoption advocacy and child welfare work. She brings theological depth and visionary leadership to conversations on caring for vulnerable children and families, shaped by her academic training in international studies and theology, including a Master of Theology from Queen’s University Belfast. Emily lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with her husband, Tanner, and their three daughters.