[catbite]

I'm Lutheran and interested in any special rituals or rites which could be added to the baptism of my daughter as it relates to adoption? Any religious or specifically Lutheran ideas?

[jayeljay1]

Hi,

I am a Lutheran who has adopted and I am a Lutheran Church worker, although not a pastor. I do have several suggestions:

1. Baptism in Lutheran belief is identified with our adoption as God's children. Would your pastor be willing to read or have read Scripture reflecting that belief? "I had family member soloist and then the congregation join in on the song "The Father Welcomes All His Children."

2. I believe in some synods, the hymnals or in the pastor's liturgy books contain specific blessings or prayers regarding the adoption of a child. You may want to ask about it. However these are not usually tied to the baptism.

3. Just an FYI: If you are doing a state adoption and it is not finalized yet, the case worker may frown on a baptism until after the adoption is finalized. This may vary from state to state so just check it out. Mine was through a private agency so did not affect me. However, a friend of my (in my church) did adopt two siblings
from the state and was told she could not have them baptized until the adoption was finalized.

4. Check with your Pastor. He may have suggestions.

Blessings to your family!