It’s the season of Thanksgiving and several families in Tennessee’s first judicial district are feeling thankful, grateful and blessed as the holiday nears. These families adopted 12 children on November 16 inside Chancellor John C. Rambo’s courtroom.
“National Adoption Day holds a special place in my heart,” said Chancellor Rambo. “There are few things that take place in the courtroom more rewarding than placing a child in a loving home. It’s a wonderful start to the Thanksgiving holiday week and something I look forward to every year.”
This year’s celebration, which was filled with laughter, tears and an overwhelming sense of hope, was the tenth adoption day organized by Chancellor Rambo since he took the bench in 2013.
“The children are the true stars of the day,” said Chancellor Rambo. “They radiated happiness as they officially became part of their forever families.”
Chancellor Rambo and First Judicial District Circuit Court Judge Suzanne Cook signed adoption papers and listened to the exchange of promises that will shape the lives of these adopted children for years to come.
“Seeing the smiles on their faces and the tears of joy in the eyes of their new parents was a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of adoption,” said Chancellor Rambo.
The First Judicial District’s National Adoption Day was made possible with the help of the Department of Children’s Services and local placement organizations, including Harmony Placement, Youth Villages, Freewill Baptist Family Ministries and Holston United Methodist Home for Children.
“The First Judicial District would like to thank everyone who played a part in making Adoption Day 2023 a success,” said Chancellor Rambo. “Your support, whether through volunteer efforts, donations, or simply being present today, contributes to the success of these life-changing moments.”
Chancellor Rambo also extended heartfelt thanks to First Judicial District Judges Lisa Rice, J. Eddie Lauderback and Suzanne Cook; the Clerks and Masters: Sarah Lawson, Andrew LaPorte, Sherrie Fenner, and Teresa Simerly; and the courthouse staff for their support in planning the event.
The Reverend Joel Cook, pastor of Marvin’s Chapel Methodist Church in Johnson City, led the invocation, which praised the resilience of the human spirit, the strength of families and the power of unconditional love. His remarks highlighted the community’s admiration for the incredible individuals who opened their hearts and homes to children in need.
Those in attendance were also treated to a vocal performance by Deputy Clerk Billie Hubbard and a visit from Santa Claus, who spoke with the children and posed for pictures.
