Mansell Family
Our adoption journey began in April, 2002, when Sharon was diagnosed with breast cancer. At that time we had four children, but had always dreamed of having a house full of children. Chemotherapy left Sharon infertile. God used this time of transition to introduce us to the thought of adoption. We were the first family to be blessed Through the “His Kids” ministry of Community Bible Church!
We first sought godly counsel through our church elders and then proceeded to look at the country of Ukraine. It seem like the perfect fit – we would adopt from the country where our church had an orphanage. God had different plans! We learned that due to circumstances beyond our control in the Ukrainian government, Ukraine was no longer an option for us. The very day we learned this news, a friend handed us information on the adoption program through Christian World Adoption that had just begun in Ethiopia. God chose Ethiopia for us…now we just needed the funds. Our savings account had been devastated by medical bills. We did not know how to pay for an adoption and felt discouraged to learn that we wouldn?t get any help through the Federal Adoption Credit – our tax liability was zero. God brought “His Kids” to us at the perfect time and our first adoption of two kids was funded! The joy and experience of living out James 1:27 is indescribable! It was so wonderful that four months later when we received a DVD that introduced us to 200 children in need in Ethiopia, we moved forward as soon as God laid a sibling group of 4 on our hearts. God funded a second adoption for us through grants and our Christian family! We will boast in God every chance we get! Our lives are changed and the lives of ten children our changed…all for God?s glory.
God has used the vehicle of adoption to empty us of ourselves and fill us with Him. He has shown and continues to show us how to walk the Christian faith and bring glory to Him.
Want to hear more about what 12 year old Lawson thinks of his 6 new siblings and how its affected his life? Click here
Want to hear more about 14 year old Maddie’s experience as the oldest of four children who was adopted from Ethiopia by the Mansell’s? Click here