I was born in Omsk, Russia, but we moved when I was very young. I grew up all my life in Toronto. I was raised atheist, but in my teen years, my interest in spirituality and mysticism grew. I’ve explored many spiritual directions and groups. Nothing ever spoke to my heart as Jesus did. He said simply and truly. He was there when I needed Him most. His Mother was there when I needed her compassion most, in times of darkness and hopelessness.
“He was there when I needed Him most”
There was a situation where I finally came face to face with how broken my way was, how broken my heart was. 2023 summer. My deepest desire was crushed, impossible. What I thought was good, wasn’t. I wanted to trust people but I couldn’t, and I wasn’t trustworthy either. I couldn’t fight this fight alone — and deep friendships and a loving family weren’t enough.
I could only rise for another day by putting my hope in God.
Even then, the only steps I could take forward were reluctant, tentative ones. One step at a time, God proved the truth (the power & the reliability) of His promises and His Word. Every week, He’s healing me. And so He’s led me.
April 2025, I found myself at the foot of the Cross, baptized, full of new hope and love. I’ve seen miracles of prayer — not just in my life, but in the lives of others. This world we all live in is renewed every single day.
Anya.
