RUSSIA: Prosecutions for Cooperating with "Undesirable Organizations"

Source: VOMC
Sources: Forum18, Voice of the Martyrs Korea

Ms. Park Tae-yeon Photo: VOM Korea

Russian authorities have classified a growing number of organizations with foreign associations as "undesirable." Whenever this designation is determined, any individuals and institutions allegedly having connections to these listed organizations are at risk of prosecution.

Olga Sibiryova is a researcher for one of Russia's leading 'freedom of religion and belief' monitors. Recently, Olga was charged with "participation in the activities" of the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Alliance, even though she denies having had any interactions with the organization. The only evidence presented against the accused woman is that her research was referenced in reports published by this so-called "undesirable organization." If convicted, Olga could face up to four years in prison.

In May, Mission Eurasia was also declared to be "undesirable." Headquartered in the United States and Canada, this particular ministry provides training and assistance to Christian leaders in various countries. Since the designation, a Baptist church and two higher education Christian institutions have been accused of cooperating with Mission Eurasia for distributing Bibles and other materials published by the ministry.

As a result, authorities fined the pastor of the Baptist church, Aleksey Kruchinin, and ordered the destruction of various Scripture materials found on the premises. Additionally, the St. Petersburg Christian University and the rector of the Moscow Theological Seminary were fined for possessing Mission Eurasia publications in their libraries.

In a previously published Persecution & Prayer Alert, VOMC reported on the case of Ms. Park Tae-yeon, a South Korean missionary who faces up to 17 years in prison for alleged immigration violations. (Review other reports concerning her situation.) Ms. Park served for many years in eastern Russia with Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) before retiring from the ministry. While the charges are not officially connected to her work with CEF, Russian authorities are investigating the children's camps that she had assisted.

This July, Child Evangelism Fellowship was added to Russia's list of "undesirable" organizations, raising further concerns about Ms. Park's case. Since the retired missionary's detainment, her trial has experienced several delays. Although a verdict was originally expected on August 10th, a decision is now anticipated to take place no earlier than September 24th.

• Prayerfully uphold these recently accused followers of Jesus who are presently facing criminal prosecution in Russia because of their ministry activities, asking Him to provide for their every need as they deal with fines and the possibility of imprisonment.

• Also, please continue to remember Ms. Park amid her ongoing trial, praying for a favourable outcome that would allow this faithful servant to be released soon and joyfully reunited with her loved ones in South Korea.

• In general, pray that God will continue to build His church throughout Russia, encouraging believers, raising up faithful church leaders, and opening doors for the Gospel to reach those who have not yet received His saving grace through Christ.

RUSSIA: Child Evangelism Fellowship Designated as "Undesirable"

Source: VOMC
Source: Voice of the Martyrs Korea (VOMK)

Ms. Park Tae-yeon Photo: VOM Korea

The American-based ministry, Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF), was recently added to Russia's list of "undesirable organizations." This decision creates serious risks for CEF workers in the country, as well as for the churches and organizations currently using the ministry's materials.

One such worker is Park Tae-yeon, who was arrested on January 15th and is now facing charges that could result in a prison sentence of up to 17 years. The retired missionary's trial is scheduled to begin on July 28th.
See more details on her case.

The decision to designate CEF as an "undesirable organization" was made on July 6th. No explanation was provided for the ministry's inclusion on the list. According to Dr. Hyun Sook Foley of VOMK, possessing or distributing the ministry's materials, providing financial support, or maintaining any other form of association with CEF could result in criminal charges.

While Ms. Park's charges are related to immigration matters, and CEF has not been mentioned in her indictment, those following the case are concerned that it may be used to gather information about individuals, churches and organizations with ties to the ministry.

• In addition to praying for the Lord to strengthen and encourage Ms. Park as her trial approaches, ask that His mighty intervention would take place during the court proceedings relating to this retired missionary's case, so she will soon be able to return home to South Korea as originally planned.

• May God grant wisdom, discernment and protection to Christian ministries throughout Russia that are seeking to share the Gospel message with children amid increasing challenges.

• Pray that believers residing in this vast country will stand firm in their faith, and that our Almighty God's church throughout Russia would continue to grow in strength, unity and fruitfulness.