If I were to list all the statistics surrounding the Foster Care and the Adoption community in Oklahoma, it would be easy to get depressed and feel as though we are failing our state. Instead, I would rather tell you about a family I have worked with for five years. Matt and Ashlee Terry are the parents of nine children and none of those children are biologically theirs.
The Terrys started out by themselves, but in 2010 they felt the call to go into foster parenting. In 2011, they received not one but three sisters who had been through the most horrible conditions. They worked hard pouring into their lives love, counseling, and discipline. Then in 2012 they received the call for another little baby girl, all of which they later adopted.
In October 2015, they moved to Pepper’s Ranch Community in Guthrie, OK – a special community designed for foster and adoptive families that combines residential and on-site services, including counseling, therapeutic art, equestrian riding, tutoring, and other educational programs, with the premise that they needed to accept at least two more children. Almost four months later, in February 2016, they received the call for three more sisters, whom they happily accepted. These three sisters were not alone; they had a family of cousins and siblings who had been separated from each other.
Matt and Ashlee fought to reunite the brothers and cousins with their sisters. Eventually they had nine children total: three boys and six girls ranging from 15 to four years old. They spend hours taking children to the eye doctors, dentists, counselors, and teacher conferences, all while working. It has not been an easy road, but God has continually provided.
They are truly a testament to following God’s calling, His provisions, and making a difference in the world. What is God calling you to do that causes you to hesitate because you aren’t sure you could make a difference?
Just like God used Mary and Joseph, and provided for them all along the way, so will He provide for the calling He gives you.
A special thank you to Matt and Ashlee for allowing me to share your story. You are truly one of a kind people who love and inspire those around you because of your love of God and His calling in your lives.
Mandi Moon, Director, St. Luke’s Children Center
