Evangelical Baptists in Russia Fined for Proselytizing in the Street
02 October 2009
Although police admit public order was not disturbed, two Baptist communities in Kaliningrad, a Russian exclave on the Baltic Sea, have been fined for singing and praying in the town center while handing out copies of the Gospel. Debate arises over whether the event was a religious service or a demonstration; there is no need by law to request permission in advance to hold a religious service. Russian officials shouted at and ridiculed the preachers, retorting, "You have the law, we have instructions!" Mikhail Alentyev and Aleksandr Legotin, the two preachers who were detained during the event, have not yet decided whether to appeal the fine.
Please pray for improved understanding between Russian authorities and religious groups. Pray for a peaceful resolution to the increasing number of conflicts with evangelical groups in Russia and the protection of religious freedom by the government.
Read more: http://www.forum18.org/Archive.php?article_id=1358
Last updated 02 October 2009