Photo: Council of Churches Baptist via Forum 18
Pastor Vladimir Rytikov was born and raised in the Luhansk region of Ukraine. Ordained during 1995, he has faithfully served in ministry within this area for more than 30 years. Despite this, the pastor now faces deportation to an unknown location following Russia's occupation and subsequent annexation of the region. Apparently, Russian officials refuse to recognize Pastor Vladimir as a citizen due to his ministry involvement with an unregistered church.
Earlier this year, authorities ordered his deportation, prompting him to file an appeal. (See more details.) Officials contend that the church leader is a foreign citizen who "advocates for the violent change of the foundations of the constitutional order of the Russian Federation; or by other actions, creates a threat to the security of the Russian Federation or citizens of the Russian Federation."
On October 6th, the Russian-controlled Luhansk Supreme Court rejected Pastor Vladimir's appeal. Officials have also seized official documents pertaining to the ownership of his house and land, refusing to return them despite the ruling that his wife, Lyudmila, is permitted to remain within the region. In addition, the elderly couple, who are both caring for a son who has lived with a disability since 2015, were denied their government pensions. Compounding the family's multiple difficulties, Lyudmila is experiencing health complications.
Pastor Vladimir intends to continue appealing the case – even presenting it before Russia's Supreme Court if necessary. Meanwhile, his lawyer plans to request a suspension of any deportation order while the appeal process remains ongoing.
- Pray that Pastor Vladimir's appeal will be rightfully honoured, allowing him to stay in the country where he has lived, served and faithfully ministered for decades.
- During this season of uncertainty, may the Lord strengthen and encourage this church leader and his family, graciously providing for each of their physical, emotional, spiritual and practical needs.
- Intercede on behalf of other believers residing in occupied regions of Ukraine who are facing increased pressures and restrictions, asking that they too would remain steadfast in their faith and further sustained by God's wisdom, grace and hope.
- May the Lord work powerfully in the hearts of all those involved, opening the way for a just and peaceful resolution to the ongoing military conflict.
