Facing Uncertainty With Confidence

 RUSSIA


Facing Uncertainty With Confidence


The Blagoveshchensk City Court of the Amur Region will soon announce its verdict in the case involving Sisters Kristina Golik, Yekaterina Olshevskaya, Mariya Myasnikova, and Valentina Yermilova. The prosecutor has yet to request a potential sentence.

February 9, 2024


Profiles


Kristina Golik

Born: 1992 (Ukraine)


Biography: Studied graphics and web design


Fifth-generation Jehovah’s Witness. Baptized in 2006


Married Dmitriy in 2012. He was convicted in June 2021 and is serving a prison sentence of six years and two months


Personal Comments


Is there a Bible verse that helps you remain joyful?


When Dmitriy and I were first separated, I did not know exactly how to feel about this injustice. I really missed his comfort and support. I begged Jehovah to help me. Through my Bible reading, I came upon Psalm 17. I was particularly touched by verse 15: “But as for me, in righteousness I will see your face; I am satisfied to awaken in your presence.” Now, every morning when I wake up, I remind myself how my God, Jehovah, knows better than anyone how to give the comfort and encouragement I need. Despite my difficulties, I can always find a reason to smile.


Yekaterina Olshevskaya

Born: 1984 (Blagoveshchensk)


Biography: Married Anton in 2010. They have a four-year-old son


Anton and her father, Sergey Afanasiyev, were convicted in December 2022 and are serving prison sentences of over six years


Personal Comments


How has your relationship with Jehovah grown during these trials?


For the past five years, I have been exhausted by the court hearings related to the criminal cases of my father, my husband, and now my own case. I am facing the possibility of being sent to prison and leaving our four-year-old son without his parents. Despite this, I can personally echo the words of righteous Job found at Job 42:5: “My ears have heard about you, but now I do see you with my eyes.” Amid these difficulties and with no husband to rely on, I feel Jehovah is nearer than ever. Anton once told me: “Even if I go to prison and am not able to provide for you, you will see how Jehovah is the best family head. He will take care of you.” And Jehovah has shown me such kindness. He does not just silently empathize. He actively provides for my emotional and physical needs, often even before I ask.


Mariya Myasnikova

Born: 1994 (Chernigovka, Amur Region)


Biography: Worked as an office manager


Mariya’s mother studied the Bible with her. Was impressed by the fulfillment of Bible prophecies and the hope of everlasting life. Baptized in 2006


Married Nikolay in 2021


Personal Comments


What helps you to maintain a positive attitude despite these difficult circumstances?


I try not to look at trials as something negative, but as an opportunity to improve my Christian qualities. Gold is purified at a hot temperature. The challenges I am facing now are helping me develop aspects of my personality that Jehovah values and that will help me in the future. I also appreciate what is said at 1 John 2:17: “The world is passing away and so is its desire, but the one who does the will of God remains forever.” All that is happening now is temporary. Knowing this gives me the strength to keep going.


Valentina Yermilova

Born: 1970 (Shimanovsk, Amur Region)


Biography: Worked as a laboratory technician


Married Sergey in 1995. They have one son


Was thrilled to learn about the hope of a resurrection. Baptized in 2009


Sergey was convicted in December 2022 and is serving a prison sentence of six years and three months


Personal Comments


What lesson have you learned through this difficult experience?


I have seen the value of not focusing so much on my own circumstances. Instead, I remind myself that the most important thing is to sanctify Jehovah’s name. Many people consider it an honor to give their life for their country. How much more so do I feel honored to defend Jehovah’s name. I simply want to give Jehovah my very best and glorify him. And I know that he will never abandon me.


We are grateful for the examples of reliance on Jehovah that these sisters provide. And we know that Jehovah will continue to care for and richly bless them.—Psalm 27:3.


Time Line


July 20, 2018


Homes searched


July 22, 2021


All four sisters criminally charged


July 27, 2021


Kristina and Mariya placed under travel restrictions


August 3, 2021


Yekaterina placed under travel restrictions


August 4, 2021


Valentina placed under travel restrictions


May 26, 2023


Criminal trial began


In the photo: Left to right: Sisters Yekaterina Olshevskaya, Kristina Golik, Valentina Yermilova, and Mariya Myasnikova.

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