In this episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell is joined by Karla Thrasher, Lifeline’s Senior Director of International Adoption, to discuss the heartbreaking impact of China’s five-year suspension of international adoptions, which left 400 children—many with special needs—waiting for families. Recent developments, including China’s September 2024 decision to end all international adoptions, have deepened the uncertainty for children and the 300 U.S. families still committed to them. Herbie and Karla explore the emotional toll on families, the long-term effects on children, and Lifeline’s ongoing advocacy at the highest levels, providing hope through prayer, support, and action.

GUEST

Karla Thrasher is a licensed social worker with a degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a certified TBRI® Practitioner through the TCU Karen Purvis Institute of Child Development. Since joining Lifeline Children’s Services in 2001, she has dedicated her career to serving vulnerable children and families as Senior Director of International Adoption. Her leadership role allows her to fiercely advocate for the children and families she serves through quality assurance and excellent service.

Thrasher brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role, which has been instrumental in developing Lifeline’s partnerships with international agencies, governments, and ministries. Through her work, she has seen God’s hand at work in placing children in loving, Christ-centered homes and providing support for families who adopt from around the globe.

Her greatest joy is sharing the gospel through the ministry of adoption. She lives in Birmingham with her husband, and they have three grown children who champion her ministry work at Lifeline.

HOST

Herbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.

ADOPTION COUNSELING COURSE

At Lifeline Children’s Services, we are reminded daily of the global orphan crisis — a crisis affecting over 140 million vulnerable children worldwide. These children, many of whom are social orphans, need more than just temporary aid; they need the hope, love, and security that only a family can provide. While adoption is a beautiful way to answer this call, less than 0.5% of these children will ever be adopted. That’s why Lifeline is committed to walking alongside families on this faith-filled journey of international adoption, equipping them to step forward in obedience and care for the vulnerable. If you feel God stirring your heart to learn more, visit LifelineChild.org/Adoption to explore how you can get started in making an eternal impact.

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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