Stronger Than Prison Shackles. The Wedding of Jehovah's Witness Sergey Shulyarenko Took Place in The Penal Colony in Blagoveshchensk

On September 27, 2023, near IK-8 in the Amur Region, a rare for such place festive atmosphere reigned - about 20 people with flowers and gifts gathered for the wedding of prisoner of conscience Sergey Shulyarenko and his bride Marina.

By that day, Shulyarenko had spent almost four months in the colony out of the six years and nine months appointed by the court for his faith. He lives in a barrack for 100 people, studies carpenter-machine operation and attends English classes.

"On the wedding day, fellow believers provided invaluable support and assistance," Marina said. "When we arrived at the colony, we were surprised to see a large support group. Everyone was joyful and happy." According to her, visitors to the colony watched with surprise.

Registration of marriage, which took a little more than five minutes, took place in the presence of the parents of the newlyweds. For this event, Shulyarenko was allowed to dress up accordingly. The colony staff took memorable photographs for Sergey and Marina. Afterward, the couple and their parents celebrated their wedding in the visiting room.

Speaking on how the newlyweds build their family life in spite of the prison shackles, Marina said: "Sergey tries to call as soon as the opportunity arises. We tell each other what interesting things happened to us, mention our problems, news. Every time we share what we need each other to pray for. The letters are also a huge support. We try our best to encourage each other, set each other up for a positive attitude and assure each other of love.

Since the liquidation of Jehovah's Witnesses' legal entities in Russia, criminal prosecution for faith has already changed the lives of almost 800 people, 139 of whom have been sentenced to prison for terms ranging from two to eight years. The international community, including the European Court of Human Rights, considers what is happening illegal and calls on Russia to stop the repression of believers.