Archimandrite Theodosius (Kuryanov) Awarded the High Distinction of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District – the Order of Archbishop Sophronius (Sokolsky)

April 26, 2026. Uralsk. Following the Sunday Divine Liturgy at the Archangel Michael Cathedral, Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan congratulated the rector of the principal church of the Ural Diocese, Archimandrite Theodosius (Kuryanov), on a significant milestone – his 70th birthday.

The Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan presented Father Theodosius with the Order of Archbishop Sophronius (Sokolsky), the first hierarch of the Turkestan Diocese and Apostle of Semirechye. Metropolitan Alexander bestowed this high award upon the pastor in recognition of his labors for the benefit of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan and on the occasion of his 70th birthday.

Presenting the order, Metropolitan Alexander noted in particular:

“I cordially congratulate you on a special date in your life – your 70th birthday! For more than three and a half decades you have borne ecclesiastical obedience and faithfully fulfilled your pastoral ministry on the blessed land of Kazakhstan. You have become a spiritual father and wise наставник for many people, fulfilling in deed the words of the Apostle who calls us ‘to rejoice with those who rejoice, and to weep with those who weep’ (Rom. 12:15). The Lord has granted you to be a witness and participant in the revival of Holy Orthodoxy, and now, through your labors, with the help of the all-strengthening grace of God, the work of the Gospel proclamation continues on the Ural land. By the word of preaching, heartfelt consolation, and the example of your life, you kindle in people’s souls the saving fire of faith. Your many years of labor in the field of Christ have earned you the well-deserved respect of the clergy and the faithful. On this memorable day, I wish you good health, peace, and well-being.”

The Metropolitan wished Father Theodosius health, long life, and God’s help in his continued pastoral labors for the good of the Holy Church, and presented him with a blessed prosphora and a bouquet of flowers.