A Protestant church in Shlisselburg, Russia (Leningrad region) was destroyed in an arson attack on May 15, according to a June 19, 2008 report by the Slavic Law Center. The non-denominational Autonomous Protestant Community has waged in a long-standing battle with local authorities allegedly intent on stealing their land for the development of a shopping center. The 100+ person congregation almost lost their church in a 2003 arson attack, which coincided with pressure from local authorities to give up their land. However, after the church won a court case, the pressure lessened, only to be ratcheted up again this year. Police are investigating the fire.

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