With every ‘deed’ accomplished, every gift given, and every prayer whispered, there is a ‘child’s’ face in the mind and heart of TEAR; it is the face of “the fatherless.” As we continue to be obedient to the will of God, it is a privilege to feel Him love them through our hands, speak to them through our voices, and care for them through the faithfulness and support of each of you. HE is revealed to them through all your gifts and sacrifices, and His Word promises, “all will be blessed” (Duet. 24:28 29).

As we unlock the “pyramid of love” shown on our TEAR Christmas Card, Katya Viktorova gives us our first glimpse of just a few of the “children of our hearts.” Being able to spend time with the orphans and know them personally is one of the greatest joys that the TEAR Ministry has to offer.

As a relationship was formed, walls of mistrust and fear gave way to courage. With timid eyes and a trembling voice, Katya began sharing her story: “Both of my parents were placed in prison not long after I was born. I had no other family that wanted me so I was placed in another Orphanage and stayed there until the 3rd grade. After that I came here to live at the Pochinkovskaja Orphanage near Pochinok, Russia.”

With teary eyes, Katya continues. “I was told I have a sister but I have no way of finding out and although I am happy here, I feel alone. Working with flowers and in the garden helps me.

Katya tries hard to stay positive and it reflects in her good grades and in her attitude. “My desire is to continue to further my education here in Smolensk and study to be a Cook or get into the Retail Market”, she says, “I know this will be difficult----but I just want a chance.”

Even with all her obstacles, Katya found HOPE in the message of Christ we had been sharing during our week with her and the others. As she got up to leave, she turned slightly and with a small smile forming, she added, “My greatest desire is to have a family of My own, perhaps even be adopted by an American”. With that she quickly left, but not before becoming a permanent face in the heart of TEAR’s “Family Album.”

Thank you for your continued prayers and commitment!

We would like to offer YOU a chance to participate personally -  

1. Become a Rock Partner church and adopt an orphanage in Russia;
2. Go with our teams on a mission trip to one of the orphanages;
3. Come to our TEAR annual banquet (March 26th 2007 at FBC Woodstock, GA);
4. Help TEAR to do more TEARific Deeds by becoming a My Child participant

Thanks so much,
Leo

Thank you for your continued commitment!