http://www.mpak.com/forums/5.aspxenCommunityServer 2008.5 SP2 (Build: 40407.4157)http://www.mpak.com/forums/thread/44.aspxTue, 19 May 2009 22:57:33 GMT8e318526-227a-4fff-be70-e6125685e4b7:44admin0http://www.mpak.com/forums/thread/44.aspxhttp://www.mpak.com/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=5&PostID=44<p><strong>Celebrating Koreans Adopting Korean Children</strong> <br /><br /><strong><img width="512" src="http://www.mpak.com/pics/AllAttendees.jpg" height="261" alt="" /></strong><span style="FONT-FAMILY:&#39;Times New Roman&#39;;"></span><br /><br />Mission to Promote Adoption in Korea (MPAK) sponsored the 1st Annual MPAK-California Picnic, which was attended by nine Korean-American families that have either adopted or in the process of adopting children from Korea.&nbsp; The picnic was held at the Cedar Grove Park in the Orange County on Saturday, May 13, 2000, and was attended by a total of 38 people.&nbsp;&nbsp; This was a historic gathering that was first of its kind in the Korean society where adoption is not viewed favorably due to social stigma attached to the concept of adoption.&nbsp; </p> <p>The families that have gathered at the picnic are the pioneers in breaking the barrier toward adoption.&nbsp; Their presence at the picnic was a testament to their bold conviction that God&rsquo;s love can overcome centuries-old culture.&nbsp; They came to share love for their children and that loving a child who is in need of a home is just as joyful as any other family can experience.&nbsp; In Korea, May is celebrated as family month.&nbsp; There were laughter and love among the families as we celebrated the true meaning of family under the beautiful May sky.&nbsp; They were united in one heart under the common bond of love shared through adoption.</p><div style="clear:both;"></div>