MARCH 27, 2024 | UPDATED: MAY 13, 2024
RUSSIA

UPDATE—BROTHERS CONVICTED | Remaining Confident, Prepared, and Positive

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On May 13, 2024, the Leninskiy District Court of Barnaul in the Altai Territory convicted Brothers Yuriy Kolotinskiy, Mikhail Reshetnikov, and Anatoliy Sarychev. They each received a suspended prison sentence of two years and three months. They are not required to go to prison at this time.

Profiles

Yuriy Kolotinskiy

Born: 1955 (Moldova)

Biography: Worked as a heavy-machine operator in the mining industry

Married Nataliya in 1977

Wondered why there is so much suffering. Received clear answers from the Bible after studying with Jehovah’s Witnesses. Both Yuriy and Nataliya were baptized in 1995

Personal Comments

What Bible account has helped you to feel confident of Jehovah’s support?

I often think about the Israelites after they left Egypt. Jehovah led and protected them the entire time they were in the wilderness. I feel that he is doing something similar for me. Each time I am called to court, I imagine Jehovah going ahead of me. Feeling his support convinces me that he loves me and that he will give me the strength to endure and maintain my loyalty no matter what happens. My faith and firm belief that I am on the right path have never been stronger, and I am prepared to do whatever I can to defend Jehovah’s name.

Mikhail Reshetnikov

Born: 1949 (Maksiner, Kirov Region)

Biography: Worked as a bus and truck driver for over 50 years

Raised a son and a daughter with his first wife, who later died of cancer. Married Antonina in 2021

Had questions about the Bible but did not get answers from his church. Was happy to learn the truth through his study with Jehovah’s Witnesses. Baptized in 2000

Personal Comments

How did being prepared for persecution help you?

As soon as they began arresting and imprisoning our brothers and sisters, I began praying to Jehovah to give me wisdom and self-control so that I would be prepared. Experiencing his help has proven to me over and over that Jehovah always answers prayers at just the right time. I have no doubt that he is by my side. As a result, I am unafraid of whatever the court may decide in my case. I know that with Jehovah’s help, I will be able to remain loyal.

Anatoliy Sarychev

Born: 1949 (Karpovo, Altai Territory)

Biography: Worked as a graphic designer before retiring

Married Nadezhda in 1990. They have a son

Was contacted by Jehovah’s Witnesses while he was recuperating from surgery. Was uplifted by Jehovah’s promises to end violence and suffering. Nadezhda was baptized in 2001 and Anatoliy in 2002

Personal Comments

What helps you to remain positive?

I think about what is written at 1 Peter 3:14: “But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are happy.” The Pharisees persecuted the apostles because they refused to stop preaching. The apostles endured dishonor for the sake of Jesus’ name and considered this a reason to be joyful. I want to follow their example. I see no reason to become discouraged because I am being persecuted. Rather, I take great comfort in knowing that I am following in the footsteps of the early Christians and Jesus Christ himself.

We are grateful for brothers such as these, who are modern-day examples of faith and reliance on Jehovah. We are convinced that they will continue to benefit from Jehovah’s loyal love and faithfulness.—Psalm 25:10.

Time Line

May 25, 2021

Criminal case initiated against Mikhail
May 27, 2021

Mikhail’s home searched. He and Antonina interrogated. Mikhail placed under travel restrictions
October 6, 2022

Criminal case initiated against Anatoliy and Yuriy and combined with Mikhail’s case
October 7, 2022

Anatoliy and Yuriy placed under travel restrictions
January 19, 2023

Criminal trial began

Jehovah’s Witnesses

UPDATE—BROTHERS CONVICTED | Remaining Confident, Prepared, and Positive

Profiles

Time Line

See Also

Imprisoned for Their Faith—Russia