Recently, I investigated the claims of one particular Christian organisation (name withheld) who promote sponsorship of children in orphanages.
What I found was that the funds didn’t benefit the particular chosen child directly, but rather indirectly, namely, the funds went to the institution and not to the specific child per se. In my opinion, this amounts to subtle financial and emotional manipulation. As one writer wrote, what has greater emotional pull; to support one specific child, with a photo and some background information given, or an institution? Should a Christian organisation use the same methods? Does the end justify the means? I don’t think so!
Therefore, Christians (and all people) need to ask pertinent questions of the sponsoring organisations and not merely be guided by emotions and their God-given compassion, which need to be combined with God-given wisdom, soaked in genuine and fervent prayer. Christ said it himself in Luke 16:8 “For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light.”
Do the sponsoring organisations know how those funds are benefiting the children in those orphanages? Often, organisations do not receive financial statements as to how funds are managed or maybe statements of a generalised nature. Knowing unredeemed man; ultimately, it is all about themselves. How much of that money gets pocketed by individuals? No one seems to know. Blind trust?
The fact is, there are many children worldwide, whether from a refugee background or from poor families who cannot look after them, and who therefore end up in institutions. Children, just like frail elderly people, are the helpless poor who are at the mercy of others. This fact is often used by unscrupulous individuals and even organisations (even governmental!) to take advantage of their lack of “voice” and to abuse, mistreat and otherwise exploit them, especially financially. I am not saying that all institutions are like that, but unfortunately many. The proof lies in the fruit produced; namely, the type of people who emerge from these institutions! Research into this proves my point!
What is the answer then?
From a world’s perspective; there isn’t really one! The voiceless do not have the power to change things, but those who have a voice and take up their cause certainly can! I am speaking from a purely political and social point of view. It is not a bad start but not the best. For the Christian, to have God on our side is the only starting point guaranteeing lasting success. That requires prayer. Prayer requires commitment until we see a break-through. Action follows.
That is what I am calling myself to, and anyone else who feels so led. Therefore, let’s lift up to God the worldwide situation of orphanages and children’s homes, the people working in it and that these children would be loved and cared for as they deserve!
Also, we need to pray for greater discernment and transparency by Christian organisations promoting child sponsorship. That they would be given the power to demand accountability from the supported children’s homes and orphanages.
Remember God’s call in Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?”