Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan Congratulates the People of Kazakhstan on the Day of Spiritual Harmony

October 18 - the Day of Spiritual Harmony of the People of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan extends his congratulations to the people of Kazakhstan on this occasion:

Dear brothers and sisters!

I cordially congratulate you on our country’s national holiday - the Day of Spiritual Harmony!

The celebration observed today by the people of Kazakhstan symbolizes the unity and solidarity of the various nationalities and cultures inhabiting our country. It brings together all citizens of the Republic around shared values - goodness and mercy.

We cherish and safeguard peace and harmony in our common home - Kazakhstan - striving to put into practice the enduring ideals of good neighbourliness and mutual respect.

In one of his addresses, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Kemelovich Tokayev stated: “Unity and peace are among our fundamental values. This is a fundamental principle of state policy, which we shall continue to uphold in the future.”

Throughout the centuries, two major religious traditions of the Republic - Orthodox Christianity and Hanafi Islam - have preserved and strengthened the priceless and sacred gift of spiritual harmony across the vast expanses of the Great Steppe. Today, they continue to pass this life-affirming tradition on to future generations.

I am convinced that the spirit of unity and mutual understanding, which contributes to strengthening fruitful interreligious relations and cooperation between the state and religious communities, will continue to serve the preservation of peace and brotherly love among representatives of different nationalities and religions, as well as the development of a spiritually strong and morally healthy society.

The Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan sent congratulatory messages on the occasion of Constitution Day to President K.-J. K. Tokayev, the country’s leadership, members of Parliament, and the akims of regions and cities.