My heart found its home in the Church, even as my son found his home in my heart. We’re inseparable. We’re each other’s safe haven. I knew from the moment I lifted him into my arms he would hold a special place all his own forever. Even in heaven. I didn’t  know he and I would soon find refuge in the Church.

There is no wondering about my calling and purpose now. Motherhood is the great adventure. My son stretches me in every way, from lack of sleep to maintaining a prayerful life.

My purpose is to be faithful to God while feeding carrots to a 10-month-old who decided today he dislikes orange vegetables. It’s to receive the holy Eucharist through prayer, repentance, and fasting. I change diapers. We say prayers. My son tries to crawl up the staircase. I bow before the One robed in majesty. It’s a lilting, messy rhythm both comforting and challenging.

When I tickle my baby, I hear angels laugh. When I make the sign of the Cross during Vespers, I feel God’s pleasure. It’s the minute actions which weave a tapestry, each kiss a thread twining with those of fasting and prayer to form a picture. A scarred hand outstretched to us.

Our purpose as Christians is to unite ourselves to Christ. For me, uniting begins through mothering and worship. So, that’s me. This is my love. This is my life. Being an Orthodox mom.

Photos: Me by Katie Barron Holman, Baby feet, me amid a crowd celebrating Pascha at my home parish

Written for the YLCF‘s carnival on passions with a purpose.

Originally published on July 14, 2006

I first heard about Holt International at a concert in January. Back in 1955 after the Korean war, a couple with six children from Oregon petitioned for an act of Congress to allow them to adopt 8 orphans from Korea. Thus began Holt International, which has now placed over 60,000 orphans into loving families all over the world.

Not everyone can adopt a child, but one thing I can do as a single girl is provide the financial support for an orphan to receive food and medical care while waiting to be adopted. They have the opportunity to be in a loving home environment (foster families) until they are adopted. One of my close friends from Korea was placed by Holt years ago…when I learned this it made their work all the more real–it has changed lives of loved ones.

My little boy is Yue Ling from China. He turned 2 on May 3rd and he is so precious! He does not like dogs, is able to walk on his own now, and has the cutest little nose I’ve ever seen! I may not meet him on this earth, but for now he is mine to pray for and support. I thank God He has given me this opportunity to help “one of the least of these.”

View the children waiting for a sponsor.

Picture: This little boy from East Asia is still waiting for a sponsor and then adoption. You can see him in the Holt photolisting by clicking on the link above.