MAY 1, 2023 | UPDATED: AUGUST 30, 2023
RUSSIA

UPDATE—SISTER SENTENCED | “My Problems Are Only Temporary”

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On August 28, 2023, the Urupskiy District Court of the Karachayevo-Circassian Republic convicted Sister Irina Perefileva and imposed a suspended prison sentence of five years and six months. She is not required to go to prison at this time.

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Irina Perefileva

Born: 1965 (Verkhnyaya Pyshma, Sverdlovsk Region)

Biography: Worked in construction and janitorial services

Has two sons

Introduced to Jehovah’s Witnesses by her mother. Appreciated learning what the Bible says about the meaning of life, happiness, and the future. Baptized in 2003

Personal Comments

How has this difficult experience strengthened you?

I was very afraid and upset the first few times I was interrogated. I prayed to Jehovah for peace and to help me maintain my composure. With his help, I have been able to be friendly, remain peaceable, and avoid getting easily offended, no matter the circumstances.

The brothers and sisters are also a real support to me. They remind me that my problems are only temporary and that Jehovah is by my side to help and protect me. Their encouragement and assistance have been invaluable.

Like Irina, we are comforted to know that no matter how difficult the trials we face seem, they are “momentary and light” compared to the blessings Jehovah has in store for his faithful servants.—2 Corinthians 4:17.

Time Line

January 9, 2021

Home searched
November 22, 2021

Criminal case initiated
November 23, 2021

Home searched again
November 29, 2021

Charged with participating in the activities of an extremist organization
October 15, 2022

Placed under travel restrictions
December 6, 2022

Criminal trial began

Jehovah’s Witnesses

UPDATE—SISTER SENTENCED | “My Problems Are Only Temporary”

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Time Line

See Also

Imprisoned for Their Faith—Russia