The Defender Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Rick Morton interviews Dr. David Dockery at the Southern Baptist Convention. Dr. Dockery, a member of Lifeline’s pastoral advisory board, shares his appreciation for Lifeline Children’s Services and their mission to support vulnerable children and families. Dr. Dockery highlights his involvement with the International Alliance for Christian Education (IACE), which aims to unify and strengthen Christian education from pre-K to PhD levels. The conversation touches on the need to integrate a biblical worldview into all aspects of education, countering the fragmentation and compartmentalization seen in higher education. Dr. Morton and Dr. Dockery discuss the challenges faced by Christian social workers and the importance of maintaining a gospel-centered approach in their work. They emphasize the need for theological education to equip church leaders to connect their faith with social justice and mercy ministries, ultimately fostering a holistic Christian approach to addressing the world’s brokenness.

GUEST

David S. Dockery has served as the 10th President of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary since September 27, 2022. He also serves as distinguished Professor of Theology, Executive Editor of the Southwestern Journal of Theology, and Director of the Dockery Center for Global Evangelical Theology. He is regarded as one of the most recognized leaders and senior statesmen in the world of Christian higher education.

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

MID YEAR UPDATE
We’re past the mid-way point of the year, and what a journey it has been. We’ve seen incredible growth, inspiring stories, and countless lives touched by our mission to provide love and care to vulnerable children and families. As we reflect on the first half of the year, we are reminded that our work is far from over. There are still so many children who need our help, and we cannot do it without your support.

Today, we’re asking for your partnership to continue this vital work. Your donations enable us to provide critical services, from adoption and foster care to family preservation and orphan care. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact. Join us in making the second half of this year even more impactful than the first. Visit LifelineChild.org/Donate to give today. Together, we can continue to bring gospel hope and transformation to children and families in need.

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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In this episode of the Defender Podcast, hosts Rick Morton and Herbie Newell engage in a heartfelt discussion with Pastor Greg Matte of Houston’s First Baptist Church about the church’s adoption and foster care ministry. Pastor Matte shares his journey from being vocal about anti-abortion stances to actively supporting adoption as a proactive measure. He recounts the pivotal moment when his church raised substantial funds to support adoptive families, which led to the creation of a holistic ministry known as Legacy 68:5. This ministry offers comprehensive support, including counseling, therapy, and legal aid, all under one roof. Pastor Matte emphasizes the importance of taking incremental steps in faith and involving passionate church members in ministry leadership. The episode highlights the transformative impact of such ministries on both the families involved and the church community, showcasing how dedicated efforts can make significant differences in the lives of vulnerable children.

GUEST

Gregg Matte is the senior pastor of Houston’s First Baptist Church, leading the congregation since 2004. He founded Breakaway Ministries at Texas A&M University, the largest college Bible study in the nation. Gregg is an accomplished author of books like "Salvation Has Come" (2023) and "Capture the Moment" (2021). He holds degrees from Texas A&M University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Gregg also serves on the boards of Houston Christian High School and Houston Christian University. He and his wife Kelly have two children.

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

R(un) for One 2024
Join us on September 7th for Lifeline Children's Services' R(un) for One 5K! This family-friendly event raises funds for vulnerable children worldwide through Lifeline’s (un)adopted® international orphan care ministry.

Whether in Birmingham or virtually, lace up and run for a cause that changes lives. The Birmingham race starts at Dawson Church's Recreation Center, with a 1-mile Fun Run for kids!

Can’t join in Birmingham? Sign up for our virtual run and receive a run packet to participate anywhere.

Every step supports children finding love, education, and hope. Click here to register and learn more. Let’s make a difference together!

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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Join us as we sit down with Casey Stevens, who shares his family's inspiring journey from facing infertility to adopting their first son, Alek, from Kyrgyzstan in 2016 through Lifeline Children's Services. Blessed with three more sons, Micah, Jude, and Elijah, Casey's lively and love-filled home is a testament to resilience and faith. Casey discusses how his family actively participates in Stand for Orphans, an initiative that teaches kids the importance of caring for others and community service. Listen in as Casey talks about the roles his children played in their stand, memorable moments, and the rewarding experiences of working together as a family for a greater cause. Plus, get valuable advice for families looking to host their own Stand for Orphans.

GUEST: Casey Stevens and his wife, Chesney, met at Mississippi College and married in 2013. After facing infertility, they adopted their first son, Alek, from Kyrgyzstan in 2016 through Lifeline Children's Services. They were later blessed with three biological sons: Micah, Jude, and Elijah. Their home is lively and filled with love. Committed to helping others, Casey's family actively participates in Stand for Orphans, teaching their kids the importance of caring for others and community service.

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

RESOURCE

Have you heard about Stand for Orphans? It's an incredible initiative created by kids, for kids, allowing them to make a difference in the lives of others. This program shows that you don't have to be an adult to make a big difference. Stand for Orphans empowers children to use their resources and abilities to impact the world. Since its start, kids across multiple states have joined in, raising significant funds for vulnerable children. Whether it's a lemonade stand or another creative idea, any child can host a stand. Want to get involved? Visit LifelineChild.org/Stand to learn more and sign up.

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. 

FOLLOW US

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The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

On today's episode of the Defender podcast, join us for an inspiring conversation with Scott and Lynne Watson, a devoted couple with a heart for philanthropy and family. Married for over 40 years, they've embarked on incredible cycling adventures, including a 3,400-mile journey across the USA, raising $700,000 for charity. Now, they're gearing up for the BamaRama500, a 500-mile ride benefiting causes, including Lifeline. With Scott's military background, their mission takes on a deeply personal meaning as they support veterans' families pursuing adoption and post-adoption services. Tune in to hear their story of love, dedication, and community, and discover how you can join them in making a meaningful impact.

GUESTS

Scott and Lynne Watson are dedicated followers of Jesus, have been married for over 40 years, are parents of five, and grandparents to nine. Two of their children were adopted from China, and five of their grandchildren were adopted. 

In 2022, Scott and Lynne embarked on a remarkable journey, cycling 3,400 miles across the USA with Scott's USNA '83 classmates to raise funds for various causes. Their efforts have raised over $700,000 to date. This year, their team is set to embark on the BamaRama500 —a 500-mile ride from Huntsville to Orange Beach, Alabama, starting on October 4. The ride will benefit several veteran causes, including Lifeline's Operation Patriots for Children. Scott will be participating in the ride, while Lynne will lead the support team.

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

OPERATION PATRIOTS FOR CHILDREN

On today’s episode, you will hear from Scott Watson, a U.S. military veteran who continues to make a significant impact in the lives of others. Scott dedicates his life to raising funds for charities through long-distance cycling. This year, he has chosen Lifeline Children’s Services to be his charity partner for his upcoming ride, the BamaRama500 Scott’s goal is to raise $125,000 to support Lifeline’s Operation Patriots for Children, a fund that assists veterans' families in pursuing adoption and post-adoption services.

Visit lifelinechild.org/veteran to make a donation to Scott’s cycling efforts and bring hope to vulnerable children today.

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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The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

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In this episode of the Defender podcast, Herbie Newell and Rick Morton are joined by Jonathan Leeman from 9 Marks to discuss the importance of biblical faithfulness and caring for vulnerable children in the church. Leeman shares his insights on what it means to be a New Testament church, emphasizing the role of Christians in demonstrating justice and righteousness. The conversation covers various topics, including the need for the church to recover a commitment to good works, the significance of pastoral leadership in fostering a caring church culture, and the theological implications of caring for orphans and the needy. Leeman also highlights the example of Spurgeon and the impact of preaching and pastoral prayers in encouraging congregational involvement in ministries for the vulnerable. The episode concludes with an encouragement for pastors to remain true to God's word and faithful in their pastoral calling.

GUEST

Jonathan Leeman is the editorial director for 9Marks. With a background in political science and journalism, he transitioned to ministry, earning a Master of Divinity and a Ph.D. in theology. He edits the 9Marks series, the 9Marks Journal, and co-hosts Pastors Talk. Jonathan, an author and interim pastor, lives near Washington, D.C. with his family and serves as an elder at Cheverly Baptist Church. He also teaches at several theological seminaries.

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP

We're thrilled to announce an incredible opportunity for families considering international adoption. This week, Lifeline is offering a $1,000 scholarship towards any new applications for their international adoption programs! This scholarship will be applied directly to your first agency fee, making it a little easier to start your adoption journey. But hurry, this special offer ends this week!

Don’t let finances stand in the way of building your family. Apply today and take the first step towards a life-changing journey. If you or someone you know is considering adoption, now is the perfect time! Visit our website for more details and apply now. 

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. 

FOLLOW US

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The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

In this episode of The Defender Podcast, recorded  last year at the 2023 Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting, host Rick Morton interviews Jeremy Carlson of WTA Media, exploring his journey in faith-based media and his family's involvement in foster care and adoption. Their connection, rooted in their collaboration on the movie "Lifemark," has evolved into a meaningful friendship. Jeremy shares the emotional and spiritual lessons learned from his parents' dedication to being foster parents, which saw them welcome 13 children over seven and a half years, eventually adopting one of them, Matthew. The conversation underscores the transformative power and the church's crucial role in foster care. Jeremy also discusses his transition from youth ministry to faith-based media, aiming to influence a broader audience through his work. 

GUEST

Jeremy Carlson, a seasoned professional at Arrow Marketing, embodies a passionate commitment to faith-driven storytelling, rooted in his personal journey and family's dedication to fostering and adoption. Inspired by his parents' fostering of 13 children and eventual adoption of Matthew, Jeremy's career trajectory reflects a strategic blend of analytical prowess and creative vision, transitioning from youth ministry to a leadership role in faith-based media. His work on projects like "Unsung Hero" and "Lifemark" highlights his ability to craft narratives that resonate emotionally and spiritually, fostering connections and inspiring change. 

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

RESOURCE

Dear friends, mark your calendars! Lifeline's Giving Day is fast approaching—a 24-hour period dedicated to raising crucial funds to support more vulnerable children and families. The orphan care crisis never takes a break, so neither can we. Together, we can make a lasting impact and change lives for the better.

But here's the exciting part: you have the chance to double your impact! We're thrilled to announce a generous donor who will match donations up to $100,000, amplifying the reach of your contribution. Join us on Friday, June 21, 2024, and let's work hand in hand to bring hope and transformation to those who need it most. Learn more and pledge your support at LifelineChild.org/donate. Together, we can make a difference that lasts a lifetime.

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. 

FOLLOW US

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

In celebration of Father's Day, join us for an episode featuring Chip McKenzie, whose life underscores the profound impact of fatherhood through domestic adoption. Chip's journey has seen him navigate the twists of marriage, career transitions, and the joys of raising five children with his high school sweetheart, Melissa. Their family expanded through domestic adoption, culminating in the recent addition of their youngest, Carson. Chip's story is a testament to the transformative power of parenthood and the enduring love that binds families together, offering poignant insights and heartfelt reflections on faith, community, and the profound joys of fatherhood.

Guest: Chip McKenzie's life is a whirlwind of adventure and fulfillment, encapsulating a decade marked by marriage, career shifts, parenthood, and domestic adoption. He married his high school sweetheart, Melissa, and together they've navigated the joys of raising five children, including twins, and recently welcomed their youngest, Carson, through domestic adoption.

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

Make An Impact

On today’s podcast episode, we will hear from a dad whose view of fatherhood was transformed by special needs domestic adoption. Last year, 85 children joined their families through domestic adoption. Partnering with Lifeline enables more families to transform their lives by the adoption journey. 

Join us for Giving Day on June 21st (or even now!) to make hope possible for more children and families. Visit lifelinechild.org/giving.

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. 

FOLLOW US

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

In this episode of The Defender Podcast, host Rick Morton sets the stage for a heartwarming conversation between Lifeline's Senior Director of International Adoption, Karla Thrasher, and special guests Amy and Jillian Hart. Listeners are invited into the intimate world of the Hart family's adoption journey, where Amy reflects on the decision to pursue international adoption and Jillian shares her experiences growing up as an adoptee from China. From insights into cultural heritage to invaluable advice for prospective adoptive families, this episode encapsulates the transformative power of love and resilience in the adoption journey. Amy and Jillian offer words of encouragement, inspiring families to trust in God's guidance and embrace the blessings of adoption.

GUESTS

Amy Hart is a devoted mother who made the life-changing decision, alongside her husband and children, to pursue international adoption. They have adopted twice from China, bringing home their daughter Jillian and son Joseph. Amy's experiences offer invaluable insights and advice for prospective adoptive families.

Jillian Hart is a Master of Physician Assistant Studies student at Samford University, passionate about an active lifestyle and finding the best iced latte in Birmingham. Profoundly impacted by her adoption through Lifeline Adoption Agency, Jillian shares her heartfelt experiences growing up as an adoptee from China. 

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

RESOURCES

Finances can be one of the largest barriers to moving forward with adoption. That’s why we are grateful for the Hope Adoption Fund, which provides financial help to families. 

Because of generous donors, we are offering $1000 scholarships to families applying for a full international adoption program by June 30. 

Families can begin the adoption process by visiting lifelinechild.org/begin.

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. 

FOLLOW US

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

In this episode of the Defender podcast, we share an interview with children's book authors Jackie Darby and Aixa de López, creators of "Whose Am I? /¿De quién soy?" In this heartwarming episode, the authors share insights into their collaborative work, a captivating narrative that delves into adoption, redemption, and the quest for identity in Christ. The book introduces us to Darly, a pre-adolescent girl navigating the complexities of her adoption story, and Jackie, her mentor and friend with a powerful testimony. Jackie's journey from being abandoned in a dump to finding a loving family unfolds, offering a touching exploration of the adoption experience. "Whose Am I?" is a must-read for adoptive or foster children, parents in similar situations, those hoping to adopt, and children seeking to understand the nuances of adoption. Join us for a discussion on this impactful book that provides a platform for difficult yet essential family conversations.

GUESTS

Aixa de López is a graphic designer, writer, and speaker. She is wife of Alex and mother of four children, two of whom came through the miracle of adoption. She is a spokesperson for the Christian Alliance for Orphans in Latin America and a board member of the Christian Alliance for Orphans.

In 1963, Jackie Darby was a newborn abandoned in the garbage dump of Seoul, Korea, until one day a missionary nurse found her. Today she is a mother of two adult children, and a full-time missionary with her husband of 35 years, Randall. Together they founded the ministry Start with One Global in Guatemala, where they focus on encouraging and training leaders in various ways to generate auto sustainable resources so they’re able to impact their communities with the Gospel.

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

RESOURCES

We wanted to highlight a new resource for families that helps open up conversation about our identity in Christ. Whose Am I? is a bilingual (Spanish/English) children’s book that shares true life experiences about adoption, redemption, and finding our identity in Christ. Because it is written for children and parents together, this book provides opportunities to discuss difficult topics, such as abandonment and identity.

We believe this book could be an excellent resource for any foster or adoptive families as well as those who would like more insight into helping others find their identity in Christ. Visit our Amazon store at LifelineChild.org/Amazon to purchase a book for yourself or more as gifts. 

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. 

FOLLOW US

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The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

In this episode of The Defender Podcast, we explore Lifeline Children's Services' Heritage Builders program alongside guests Sean and Jenny Miller. The Millers share their inspiring journey with Heritage Builders, shedding light on their personal connection and commitment to serving the foster care community. Through engaging dialogue, we uncover the holistic approach of Heritage Builders, which emphasizes providing both practical life skills and spiritual guidance to older youth in foster care. Sean and Jenny discuss the challenges faced by these individuals as they transition to independence and how the collaborative partnership between Lifeline Children's Services and local churches is integral in supporting older youth in foster care.

GUESTS

Sean and Jenny Miller are US Missionary Chaplains to foster care through the Assemblies of God. They have five amazing children: Jordan, Eli, Arianna, Avianna, and Thomas. As U.S. Missionaries, their mission is to resource and equip local churches to care for foster children, as well as their birth, foster, and adoptive families. They believe the church is the answer to the orphan care crisis in America.

HOST

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

CO-HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

RESOURCES

Older youth in foster care face challenges as they get close to living independently. Without intervention, these youth often leave the foster care system with little or no positive adult support, limited knowledge of basic life skills, and limited resources. These situations often result in high percentages of unplanned pregnancies, school dropouts, becoming victims of child trafficking, abuse of their future children, and chronic homelessness. 

Through Heritage Builders, Lifeline equips churches to invest in the lives of these youth, both practically and spiritually. Your church can be part of changing the life trajectory of their lives. Visit LifelineChild.org/Heritage for more information. 

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. 

FOLLOW US

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify