DECEMBER 23, 2021 | UPDATED: AUGUST 29, 2023
RUSSIA

UPDATE—COUPLE CONVICTED | Jehovah’s Provisions Provide Peace for the Postnikov Family

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On August 23, 2023, the Birobidzhanskiy District Court of the Jewish Autonomous Region convicted Brother Oleg Postnikov and Sister Agnessa Postnikova. They received suspended prison sentences of five years and six months and four years and six months respectively. They are not required to go to prison at this time.

On October 11, 2022, the Court of the Jewish Autonomous Region overturned the conviction of Brother Oleg Postnikov and Sister Agnessa Postnikova. Their case will now be sent for retrial.

On April 25, 2022, the Birobidzhanskiy District Court of the Jewish Autonomous Region convicted Oleg and Agnessa. They received suspended prison sentences of five and a half years and five years respectively. They are not required to go to prison at this time.

Time Line

February 12, 2021

The FSB initiated a criminal case against Agnessa. The Postnikovs were accused of forming a “criminal” group and publicizing its “extremist” goals. Both Oleg and Agnessa were ordered not to leave the area, their financial accounts were blocked, and their names were added to Russia’s list of terrorists
February 12, 2020

The FSB initiated a criminal case against Oleg

Profiles

Oleg Postnikov

Born: 1965 (Vyazemsky, Khabarovsk Territory)

Biography: Has worked as a plumber. Joined a gang in his teen years. Was imprisoned for criminal activity. Introduced to the Bible while in prison. After his release, baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1986

In 1989, married Agnessa. They have two grown children

Personal Comments

How did you get the truth in prison?

There was a Witness imprisoned for refusing to serve in the army. . . . We talked for a long time about the evidence of God’s existence and flaws in the theory of evolution. We also discussed the complexity and design that are present in the universe. That conversation completely changed my thinking. . . . Later, I read several publications of Jehovah’s Witnesses. . . . After my release, I continued studying and got baptized.

What have you learned about trusting in Jehovah?

I started praying more, especially when I would see the investigator. My meetings with the investigator made it clear that my own abilities or insight were simply not enough to counter the cunning and devious ways he tried to get me to renounce my faith. I realized that if I wanted to feel calm and confident, I needed to fully trust in Jehovah and not be overly worried about what might take place.

Is there a scripture you have found to be encouraging?

I often recall a key phrase found at Joshua 1:9: “Jehovah your God is with you wherever you go.” This reminds me that I may have to go somewhere I would prefer not to go. However, Jehovah reassures me, as if saying: ‘I will go there with you, do not worry. Just as I went with [faithful men like] Joseph, I will go with you as well.’ This helps me not to worry about what tomorrow may bring. It also helps me not to give myself over to disconcerting thoughts.

Agnessa Postnikova

Born: 1963 (Kazakhstan)

Biography: The fifth of seven children. As a youth, enjoyed dance and theater. Also liked skiing and skating. Today, enjoys being in the country, caring for flowers, and hiking. Worked in a tailor shop

Baptized in 1979. Married Oleg in 1989

Personal Comments

How have you been supported during this difficult time?

I want to express my gratitude to the Governing Body for preparing spiritual food at the proper time. I also want to thank all the brothers and sisters who have a share in preparing the songs, films, videos, conventions, and new Bible translations. I thank Jehovah that I have such a warm and wonderful family to strengthen me during this difficult time.

What specific provisions from Jehovah have you treasured?

I find help from praying to Jehovah and reflecting on songs such as, ‘The New World to Come’ and ‘Just Around the Corner.’ These songs present scenes of the new world. This helps to calm me, and I feel assured of my Father’s love for me.

These experiences give further evidence that Jehovah has prepared his people to face various trials successfully. May we all continue to lean on Jehovah’s ‘loyal love and faithfulness.’—Psalm 115:1.

Jehovah’s Witnesses

UPDATE—COUPLE CONVICTED | Jehovah’s Provisions Provide Peace for the Postnikov Family

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Profiles

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