ANSWERING THE CALL

Over the years, several Christian artists have taken the scriptural mandate of caring for widows and orphans literally. Several families have adopted, helped others adopt and have aided in spreading adoption awareness around the world. Below are three stories of faith and family, attesting to the blessings that emerge upon adherence to this worthy calling.

You might say Steven Curtis Chapman is the unofficial torch bearer in the Christian music community when it comes to championing adoption. Following the adoption of their first daughter from China, Steven and wife Mary Beth founded Show Hope to offer support for other families called to adopt. They have adopted three daughters from China, Sheohannah, Stevey Joy and Maria Sue. To learn more about Show Hope and the work of the Chapmans, visit showhope.org.

Audio Adrenaline has gone through an incredible metamorphosis over the years. The current lineup includes Kevin Max, former member of dcTalk, in lieu of lead singer Mark Stuart. Due to vocal problems, Mark had to step away from the microphone; but while doing so, he stepped directly into the role of helping orphans find homes and helping family to fill theirs. In 2004, he and fellow band member Will McGinniss founded the Hands and Feet Project. While the idea was originally bourne  from their huge hit-song, “Hands and Feet.” Over time, though, the passion became much more focused and intentional towards the countless number of orphans created in the wake of the devastating Haitian earthquake. Having adopted children from Haiti themselves, the band reunited in 2012 with a new lead vocalist—Kevin Max—and a new mission—to support the work of the Hands and Feet Project. Visit handsandfeetproject.org to learn more.

Mark Hall, lead vocalist for Casting Crowns, and his wife, Melanie, adopted a little girl, Hope, from China. The child had been abandoned at an orphanage in China with life-threatening illnesses. She was 3 years old when Mark and Melanie met her, loved her and made her part of their forever family. Since then, Hope has undergone extensive medical treatments and surgeries to correct the problems. While none have been completely successful in undoing the damage, it’s very clear to see that she would not have survived if not for the love and care from her mommy and daddy. Visit CastingCrowns.com for more information and updates from and about the Halls and the rest of the band.

If you are in the process or have adopted, we’d love to hear your story! Go to facebook.com/ccmmagazine to share your story and the joy of your forever family.