A Tragedy Occurred in the Church of Sts. Elizabeth and Barbara in the Village of Novodolinsky, Karaganda Region – Arson of the Church

On 11 November 2025, in the village of Novodolinsky of the Karaganda region, a tragedy occurred – a fire broke out in the church dedicated to the Holy Martyrs Grand Duchess Elizabeth and Nun Barbara.

As a result of the fire, the Church of St. Elizabeth suffered significant damage. The blaze destroyed icons, books, household equipment, furniture, windows, and doors. Firefighters from the nearest fire station took part in extinguishing the flames; parishioners and local residents also rushed to help.

According to the official report, the cause of the fire was deliberate arson.

Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan asks that fervent prayers be offered for the rector of the church dedicated to the Holy Martyrs Grand Duchess Elizabeth and Nun Barbara, Priest Alexander Gatiev.

In connection with this tragedy, the Head of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District addresses all who cherish the Church of St. Elizabeth and who care for the fate of Christian shrines, calling them to support the elimination of the consequences of the fire and the restoration works: “No trials that we encounter on the path of life should become a cause of excessive sorrow or despondency. I call upon all citizens of Kazakhstan to respond to this misfortune and to help restore the Church of St. Elizabeth. I am confident that through the intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos and the prayers of the New Martyrs and Confessors of our land, the all-merciful Lord will reveal to us ‘the exceeding riches of His grace’ (Eph. 2:7) and will grant the opportunity to restore the damaged church to its former beauty.”

Donations for the restoration of the church may be sent:

By phone number +7 775 281 34 24 to the Kaspi Gold bank card (A. Gatiev) with the note “donation for the church”.

To the bank account:

PRIKHOD ELISAVETY I VARVARY MPRO

BIN: 970640002454

Current account in KZT: KZ086010191000065856

Bank: JSC “Halyk Bank of Kazakhstan”

BIC: HSBKKZKX