Congratulatory Message from the Head of the Kazakhstani Metropolitan District on the Day of Gratitude

On March 1, the Republic of Kazakhstan celebrates the Day of Gratitude. On this occasion, Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan, Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan, addressed the people of Kazakhstan with a congratulatory message:

“Dear people of Kazakhstan! Beloved brothers and sisters!

Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on this special national holiday—the Day of Gratitude!

The essence of this celebration, which has become an organic part of the spiritual and cultural life of Kazakhstani society, is one of the most important human sentiments—gratitude for selfless help, support, and acts of mercy.

This day holds great significance for all who live on the blessed land of Kazakhstan. It not only awakens noble feelings in the hearts of our compatriots, uniting representatives of various ethnic groups and religious traditions, but also turns our attention to the history of Kazakhstan.

As we mark this occasion, we express our deep respect and sincere gratitude to the native people of this land—the Kazakhs—who, in times of great hardship, demonstrated mercy and welcomed as their own a vast number of deported settlers. Among those exiled to Kazakhstan were many members of the Orthodox Church—hierarchs, clergy, monastics, and laypeople. By extending a helping hand to the exiled clergy and faithful, the people of Kazakhstan contributed to the preservation of faith and the spiritual revival of the entire post-Soviet space.

May the celebration of the Day of Gratitude serve to strengthen peace and harmony, preserve the unity of our people, and bring society together in pursuit of noble goals—the foremost of which is a just and prosperous Kazakhstan.”

Metropolitan Alexander also extended his congratulations on the Day of Gratitude to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the national leadership, members of Parliament, regional governors (akims), and city officials.