This is how we do it

This is the catch-phrase of Compassion International, the child sponsorship program. I have always loved the idea of sponsoring a child. I know many people who are sponsors and some have even visited their sponsored children in their home countries. I have been browsing different programs, seeing which seems the most reliable and honest and where the children will benefit the most. During my web-surfing today on Compassion's website, I found this:

Is there anything I cannot send to my sponsored child?
"As a sponsor, you have many opportunities to communicate with the child you sponsor and we encourage you to do so. When you communicate with him or her, however, we ask you to provide comments and materials consistent with the Christian values and philosophies we share with our partnering churches. We will not forward photographs and other mateirals depicting activities that:

• Might be considered inappropriate in another culture.
• Promote lifestyle choices that we view as unhealthy and inconsistent with biblically based lifestyles or otherwise inappropriate for sponsored children.
• Might threaten the safety of the sponsored children in any way.

For example, we will not forward materials that depict or describe the use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, unlawful drugs and materials or activities that we regard as dangerous or unsafe. We will not forward materials or communications that advocate another religious worldview. In addition, we will not forward materials depicting persons dressed in immodest clothing or engaging in activities inconsistent with our ministry values and beliefs, including the living out of a homosexual lifestyle."

People in the GLBT community face all sorts of problems when it comes to adoption and childrens rights. Evidently we also arent good enough to send money to help children in 3rd world countries. Of course, we could sponsor the child and just not mention the fact that we happen to be lesbians. But if I am going to ahve any influence in a childs life, i'd rather not start out the relationship with a lie. Sorry Compassion, we are looking elsewhere. I hope someday you really will put the children first.