SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 | UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 22, 2023
RUSSIA

UPDATE—SISTERS CONVICTED | Three Sisters Strengthened by Prayer

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On September 21, 2023, the Zeya District Court of the Amur Region convicted Sisters Margarita Moiseyenko, Galina Yatsik, and Yelena Yatsyk. They received suspended prison sentences of three years, two years, and two and a half years respectively. They are not required to go to prison at this time.

Profiles

Margarita Moiseyenko

Born: 1978 (Krasnoyarsk, Krasnoyarsk Territory)

Biography: Works as a seamstress. Married Konstantin in 1998. Konstantin was convicted on July 14, 2021, and given a suspended prison sentence of six years

Began to study the Bible at age 18 after a close relative died. Baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 2001

Personal Comments

What helps you to maintain your endurance?

I recall hearing Proverbs 21:31 discussed at the 2018 “Be Courageous”! Regional Convention. The verse says: “The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but salvation belongs to Jehovah.” Horses can be skittish by nature. To avoid becoming frightened during a battle, they must be “prepared” or trained. The same applies to us. We are not just born with faith and courage. We must prepare for our own battles by developing these qualities. To do that, I realize how important it is to feed myself spiritually, study the Bible deeply, and pray that no matter how things turn out, my faith will not waver.

Galina Yatsik a

Born: 1950 (Zeya)

Biography: Worked as a cost analyst for city construction and maintenance departments. Now retired

Married Valeriy in 1971. They had one daughter and one son. Widowed in 1995

Raised as an atheist but always wondered about the origin of life. Began to read the Watchtower and Awake! magazines and to attend meetings. Found convincing evidence that a Creator exists. Baptized in 1994

Personal Comments

What have you learned about the power of prayer during this difficult time?

I have come to appreciate even more the value of saying a brief prayer in unexpected situations. This helps me get my emotions under control and respond correctly. It is also wonderful to know that others are praying for me. James 5:16 says: “A righteous man’s supplication has a powerful effect.” I realize that the prayers said in my behalf are part of the reason why I am able to maintain my inner peace and not be terrified. Prayers, both my own and those of others, are like a life raft that keeps me afloat.

Yelena Yatsyk b

Born: 1972 (Zeya)

Biography: Works as a dressmaker

Married Andrey in 1994. They have one daughter

Yelena’s mother and younger brother, Yevgeniy Bitusov, first began to study the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses. Yelena saw the practical value of Bible principles and how applying them improved her life. Baptized in 1997

Personal Comments

What effect has going through this persecution had on you?

My relationship with God has been strengthened. I pray to Jehovah for calmness, and I see how he answers by giving me emotional peace. My appreciation for my brothers and sisters has also grown. It is comforting to know that they are ready to come to my aid. I truly feel like I am part of a large family. And I have also become more aware of the need to pray for those who, like my brother Yevgeniy, are in prison. I pray for them every day.

The experiences of our sisters remind us that Jehovah hears our prayers and will help us to cultivate the qualities we need to overcome any trial.—1 John 5:14.

Time Line

March 21, 2019

Moiseyenkos’ home searched
October 13, 2020

Yelena and Galina’s homes searched
November 22, 2021

Criminal case initiated
February 15, 2022

Placed under travel restrictions
April 24, 2023

Criminal trial began

a b Sisters Galina Yatsik and Yelena Yatsyk are not related.

Jehovah’s Witnesses

UPDATE—SISTERS CONVICTED | Three Sisters Strengthened by Prayer

Profiles

Time Line

See Also

Imprisoned for Their Faith—Russia