Adoption

Children are entitled to be raised by parents who honor

marital vows and who provide love and support. Adoption

can be a great blessing for many children who are born without

this opportunity.

When a child is conceived out of wedlock, the best

option is for the mother and father of the child to marry and

work toward establishing an eternal family relationship. If a

successful marriage is unlikely, they should place the child

for adoption, preferably through LDS Family Services.

Placing the infant for adoption through LDS Family Services

helps unwed parents do what is best for the child. It ensures

that the child will be sealed to a mother and a father in the

temple, and it enhances the prospect for the blessings of the

gospel in the lives of all concerned. Adoption is an unselfish,

loving decision that blesses the birth parents, the child, and

the adoptive family.

If you are married and you and your spouse want to

adopt a child, be sure you know all legal requirements of the

countries and governmental agencies that are involved.

Counsel with your priesthood leaders and, if possible, with

staff members in LDS Family Services. If LDS Family Services

is not available in your area, work with your priesthood leaders

to locate licensed, authorized agencies that protect both

the children and the adoptive parents.