On behalf of our congregation, I write to oppose regulation 22 VAC 40-131-170(B) for infringement of free exercise of religion according to the U.S. Constitution and Virginia Constitution and for suppressing orphan care in the state of Virginia.

Our Commonwealth ought to be concerned about the plight of orphans in our state and be freeing up avenues for adoption rather than restricting avenues for orphan care. The ability of private (note-private) adoption agencies to pursue their mission of caring for orphans would be greatly curtailed if they were required to accept anyone into their program instead of those they are equipped and prepared to help adopt children. I and our congregation respectfully call upon the Virginia Department of Social Services to withdraw their proposed policy.

Respectfully,
Pastor Jonathan T. Matías
Grace Church of Alexandria
www.graceofalexandria.org
703.639.4077