Mark & Kristin Artrip Family
Children: Malachi 7; Canaan 5; Mercy 2; and our newest – Zion
Church: Movement Church, Hilliard, OH
When my wife Kristin and I met in high school we would talk and dream about someday getting married, starting a family, adopting, and planting a church. We were married in 2004, had Malachi (7) in 2008, Canaan (5) in 2009, planted Movement Church in 2012, adopted Mercy (2) in 2012 and felt God calling us to adopt again this last year. The call to adopt is a great motivator, but there are moments when the price tag can be deflating. Like many, we have noticed that the older we get and the more kids we have, the harder it is to save money. We adopted once already and much of that money was saved before we had kids and lead a church plant. We had friends whose adoption was blessed by Katelyn’s Fund and they recommended we apply also. The simplest way I can describe our experience with Katelyn’s Fund is to say that they have been the wind in our sails. We believe that God has a heart for adoption (Galatians 4:4-7 NLT) and our interactions with Katelyn’s Fund have shown their heart for God. Every interaction from our application and early emails, to our Skype interview, and follow up conversations have been an absolute blessing. The staff have encouraged us, prayed with us, and cared for us. From our first meeting they took an interest in us, and prayed for us. I’ve been impressed, as they have mentioned specific names and requests in follow up conversations. Adoption isn’t for every family, but it is near to the heart of God. We are a walking billboard for Katelyn’s Fund and the way that they come alongside families. When God gives you a dream there are many people who will doubt your calling or try to slow you down. We have been so encouraged by the way that Katelyn’s Fund has come alongside us, affirmed our calling, encouraged us, and made our adoption possible.
