The Chinese government has ended its international adoption program, as announced by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning on Sept. 5, leaving hundreds of U.S. families devastated.
Lifeline Children’s Services, a major adoption agency, were serving 48 families who had been matched with Chinese orphans before adoptions were suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Baptist Press reported. Some families were only a few steps away from finalizing their adoptions, with several having already met the children through a hosting program.
Shocked, grieving families
The sudden decision shocked families and adoption agencies. Lifeline will continue to support grieving families as they consider other options. The announcement ends a 30-year adoption program, although exceptions remain for international residents adopting blood relatives or stepchildren.
The decision has reportedly left many orphans in China facing uncertain futures in orphanages with limited resources and opportunities. Families and agencies are asking for prayers during this difficult time.
For related links, click here:
Shock, anger as China ends adoptions impacting hundreds of U.S. families – Baptist Press
China Ends International Adoptions, Leaving Hundreds of Cases in Limbo -Christianity Today
China’s halt of foreign adoptions leaves questions about pending cases – Associated Press
China’s halt of foreign adoptions leaves questions about pending cases -ABC News
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was compiled by The Baptist Paper, with reporting from Baptist Press.
