Update: 11/8/05

Dear AWAA families,

Good afternoon! The Eastern Europe staff sends a hearty congratulations to those families who have recently received referrals, travel dates, and court dates. We are excited for all the movement we've seen lately and humbled that we can be a part of such a precious journey.
Our department received an update this morning that once again, the Ministry of Education meeting was postponed. While this is the information being publicized, it is come to our knowledge that there was actually an unconfirmed meeting held today "behind closed doors." The Russian officials are not releasing any information at this time, although there is speculation that another Duma meeting will occur sometime next week, after which a public annoucement will be made in regards to their decisions.
Please keep in mind that while this does affect some families who have been in the waiting stage, families submitted recently and in the future will be submitted under agencies that are already accredited. In other words, the postponement of these meetings does not equate a hault on Russian adoptions. If you are new to this process and have questions about reaccreditation, please do not hesitate to contact your family coordinator. We are more than happy to answer your questions.

In His Service,
Sara Parrish
Eastern Europe Family Coordinator