There is a ‘Pattern of Discrimination’ emerging in Russia rooted in ideology. The government and the Russian Orthodox Church view the growing dynamic congregations of evangelicals as a threat. The country's constitution states that all religions are equal before the law, but the government is often accused of discriminating against citizens professing faiths other than Orthodox Christianity. Vladimir Ryakhovsky, who runs the Slavic Center for Law & Justice, said that this year the government has given the Russian Orthodox Church 200 building permits and in many cases the government will help fund the new churches. But a recent nightmare destruction of Holy Trinity Evangelical Church by heavy machinery while police watched reflects a threatening pattern against religious freedom. Evangelicals are concerned about the growing influence of the Russian Orthodox Church within the state apparatus and accuses Vladimir Putin of tearing down walls between church and state.

Pray: for the safety and continued increase of congregations facing discrimination for their faith May they continue to meet and share with others the love of Christ. (Is.33:5)

More: http://www.charismanews.com/world/34538-church-demolished-russias-fading-religious-freedom