Participants will

• Review the history of adoption in our culture
• Gain insight into how the legacy of adoption may impact our own thinking and the thinking of others….Myths of adoption.
• Explore the types of adoption along with the emotional and psychological dynamics of the adoption experience
• Explore the meaning of open and closed adoptions and the purpose of a family life book
• Gain knowledge of the Adoption Home Study requirements and process.
• Identify, explain and access answers to the legal requirements of adoption such as Oklahoma Adoption Code, birth parent rights and Indian Child Welfare Act
  - Jennifer Kern, attorney with Newton, O’Connor, Turner and Ketchum
• Understand the various influences on birth parents and their decision: religious, extended family, age, cultural and societal influences
• Understand the process of “being matched” with a birth mother, the hospital experience and the risks associated with all adoptions
• Gain knowledge of international adoption.
• Learn about Post Placement requirements and the Final Decree of Adoption.
• Explore how and when to discuss adoption with your kids.
• Review the concerns about “searching” and adoption.
• Wrap-up and provide course evaluation.

There is no charge for the course; Lunch will be provided with a $10.00 donation per person.

Pre-registration is encouraged through the Pastoral Studies Institute.

Registration with: Mary Malcom, 307-4941;  mary.malcom@dioceseoftulsa.org;  Please give your name, home address, zip code, home phone number and name of parish.

For more information about the course contact Christa VanTassell, LCSW, Coordinator of Adoption Services, Catholic Charities, 508-7132.