“I waited for you. I knew, or I hoped; No, I knew that you will not come alone, but with a lot of the kindest people and you will bring a lot of surprises.” Julia, 14

“I want to be as pretty as Mary. And I want to be as kind as she is. She was so special for God because of her kind heart. I want to be such a girl.” Polina, 11

Simple expressions, simple surroundings; Just a few of the voices expressing sheer joy and gratitude that someone from across the sea would care enough to come and share the most precious time of year with them; Christmas!

As we scrambled to put away the last decoration, a Team of 7 traveled to Russia to join our TEARific Russian Team and other church partners in celebrating Christmas in Russia.

Utilizing the gift of $4,000.00 TEAR donated out of the My Child budget, many participated in putting together gift bags consisting of several chocolates, fruit, toothpaste, shampoo, gloves, socks, pens, pencils, colored pencils, and hand cream.

With each Orphanage visited, the halls were filled with every
child and teacher. After congratulations and best wishes, 13 young actors went on to perform in full color costume a two hour performance sharing the wonderful story of the birth of Christ. Followed by singing and games, the day would end with
each actor and team member presenting every child, teacher, and teachers’ children with the gift from your heart. 

“Every year the orphans wait for you. They know that you will bring a celebration, the atmosphere of Christmas; You will bring real love and warmth. Your work is invaluable. And thank you very much for the presents.  These are the most necessary things for each orphan.  Children know that your presents will be something not usual, not just sweets. Thank you very much for everything.”  Vera Nikolaevna, Kardimovo Orphanage teacher