January 8, 2007

Dearest Brethren and Sisters,

We have had a busy end of the year. Things have been great and far beyond our expectation. We had school graduation, Odali went to Manaus to the Children's Home there, and of course we were getting ready for Christmas. The graduation was great. We had ten to graduate from 8th grade. Odali had a great trip and got to see his father. Christmas, as usual, is always a surprise. We never know until real close what God will provide for us to have to celebrate with the kids. This year, God blew us away! The surprise was much greater than our expectations. We had a list of five different things that could be done. So, as churches and friends had asked we gave them our list: shoes, clothes, a swimming pool, girls' bathroom (last bathroom that needs doing), and camp. Kathy, with tears in her eyes, said, "God gave them all!" Yes, God proved that He is always near and faithful, even when we don't have the faith of a mustard seed.

We were able to buy all the shoes and clothes, camp was last week, and the tile for the swimming pool is bought, along with the tile for the girls' bathroom. The work is on the way. Praise God! Coming to the end of the year, businesses are doing their balances and making plans for the next year, for churches it is a time of fellowship, for families it is a time to hug and forgive, to be forgiven, and of course, a time to eat a lot. Well, here at the Alpha and Omega Home, we are a little of all those things, so we have done a little of each. One thing we want to be very clear about is that we have made it this far because of God's GREAT MERCY. We can say without a doubt, thus far the Lord has helped us. Also, it is only because of people like you whom God has brought our way to partner with us in this ministry, that all this is possible. If we tried to mention all the names of those who have helped we could go on forever and we don't want to leave anyone out. If you receive this letter somehow you will know that we are truly grateful for all your prayers, support, and words of encouragement. We want to thank those who helped by coming here to do all kinds of projects, as well as those who sent money for projects. May God give to all of you tremendous blessings!

Kathy and I and the Alpha and Omega family thank you and hope to see you soon. The Lord willing, I will be available to visit those who are interested in March and April. If you would like, you may contact us by e-mail or by phone. Our e-mail is odali_kathy@hotmail.com and our phone number is 1-812-962-3485.

We will be glad to see you and answer any of your questions about our ministry.

In Christ,

Odali and Kathy Barros