Retreat rooted in lifelong support for birth moms

Written by BCH Communications

Ongoing support for birth mothers, whether their adoption journey was recent or years ago, is what sets Christian Adoption Services (CAS) apart.

As the adoption arm of Baptist Children's Homes (BCH), CAS understands that walking with an expectant mother through the adoption process is not where the journey ends. According to Sheryl Naylor, Senior Director of Domestic Adoption, it's where ministry begins.

"Gone are the days where women place a baby and it's shrouded in secrecy," she explains. "We recognize the need to care for birth moms and how they navigate grief long after placement. That's why we continue to host our Birth Mothers Retreat—now in its 29th year."

Held April 17–19, 2026, at the Four Seasons Sheraton in Greensboro, the weekend retreat is designed to foster community. Birth mothers have the opportunity to bond over shared experiences and the loving decision to place their children with Christian, forever families. Birth moms receive updates and photos from their children's adoptive families while also engaging in mentoring and discipleship—both from staff and from fellow mothers, like Noelle.

Noelle, who placed through CAS 22 years ago, said she increasingly recognizes how vital that support has been in her journey.

"I was in community with women who had gone through something similar, so I didn't feel alone," she said. "I think CAS puts their care for birth moms up at the top. They want to make sure these women feel the love of Christ."

During the retreat, as God's love was modeled and the gospel was shared, 14 women made decisions for Christ, some choosing to follow Him for the first time and others renewing their commitment to their faith.

Cover photo: Birth mothers, who placed children through Christian Adoption Services (CAS), gathered together for the 29th annual Birth Mothers Retreat on April 17-19, 2026.