Papa of pop

Charity | Music star Steven Curtis Chapman promotes adoption on tour | Mark Bergin

Christian pop star Steven Curtis Chapman is challenging sold-out crowds on his current "All Things New Tour" to undertake the biblically mandated task of caring for orphans. And his audience is listening.

Having performed in 60 of the tour's 70 cities alongside accompanying acts Chris Tomlin and Casting Crowns, Mr. Chapman's efforts have generated nearly $2 million in donations as well as interest from around a thousand prospective parents. "The response has been double what we expected," said Scott Hasenbalg, executive director of the benefiting adoption charity Shaohannah's Hope.

With some worldwide estimates of orphaned children ranging as high as 40 million to 50 million, the need for such pro-adoption messages is overwhelming. Where other celebrity advocates might come off as performing public relations, Mr. Chapman (who picked up two more of gospel music's Dove awards on April 13, pushing his total to 49) has proven his devotion to the cause with sleepless nights and a hectic family schedule. The Chapmans have adopted three baby girls from China.