Jehovah’s Witnesses

For Immediate Release
August 23, 2010
(Russian)

Heat wave and fires in Russia bring prompt response from Witnesses

MOSCOW—“Russia has not seen a heat wave like this in recorded history. The resulting forest fires are taking a heavy toll on property and the populace alike,” related Grigory Martynov, of the Administrative Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia. As he tallied reports coming in from dozens of Witness congregations in the fire-stricken areas, he continued, “At the same time, as Jehovah’s Witnesses we view this situation as an opportunity to practice what the Bible teaches, by helping one another and helping our neighbors in need.”

One report states that 37 members of the small Vyksa Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Nizhegorod Region (including adults and children) acted on the recommendation of congregation elders to evacuate during the night of July 29-30, 2010. They were then transported to neighboring towns where they were welcomed into the safety of fellow believers’ homes. One of the elders from the congregation, Yuriy Loboyko, lost his home when it burned to the ground. However, he remained joyful despite this loss because his family was safe and sound.

In the city of Voronezh, south of Moscow, a Witness family lost their home to the fire. Local government agencies provided funds for covering the family’s immediate needs and promised some compensation for rebuilding. Knowing that they are not the only ones suffering such losses, the family members are patiently awaiting receipt of the promised governmental assistance. In the meantime, Oleg Sklyadnev, a fellow Witness in the area, lovingly provided an apartment for the family to use until they can find a more permanent home.

The Administrative Center of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia quickly established relief committees to provide organized assistance in areas affected by the fires.

Contacts:
In Russia: Grigory Martynov, tel. +7 812 702 2691
In USA: J. R. Brown, tel. +1 718 560 5600