Print this pageFor Immediate Release
February 23, 2010
(Russian)
Property ownership challenged in Moscow
MOSCOW—A building in northern Moscow that has been used some 15 years for peaceful weekly services of Jehovah’s Witnesses has unexpectedly become a center of controversy. One local official claims that years ago the Witnesses purchased that property after it was illegally privatized and that they are now depriving war veterans use of it, even though it is located in a protected zone of historical value. In response, Jehovah’s Witnesses offer proof that the allegation is false because by court confirmation the land and building in question are located outside the protected area and both were legally purchased long after having been privatized. Additionally, the building involved is not registered as a historical monument.
In question is building No. 1 at address Mikhalkovskaya Street 36, purchased in 1995 by the Administrative Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia. Chairman V. M. Kalin responded to reports of this challenge: “We were taken completely by surprise to read of this threat against our house of worship in Moscow. And it’s ironic that all of this is happening at a time when property that was taken away from other religious organizations during Soviet times is being returned.”
Kalin also said: “Repeatedly over many years, the Northern Administrative Circuit of Moscow prefect has turned to us to help in the beautification of the neighboring park known as ‘Mikhalkovo.’ We have regularly assisted in the work, willingly and free of charge, and the Administrative Circuit has acknowledged our work by sending us
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