Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos Chanted at the Ascension Cathedral in Alma-Ata

May 28, 2026. Alma-Ata. Following the conclusion of the evening service at the Ascension Cathedral, Bishop Klavdian of Taldykorgan, Vicar of the Astana Diocese, presided over a prayer service with the reading of the Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos.

Concelebrating with His Grace were: Archpriest Valery Zakharov, Dean of the parishes of the Southern Capital; clergy of the cathedral; and rectors and clergy of the churches of Alma-Ata.

Praying during the service were staff members of the Alma-Ata Diocesan Administration and Orthodox residents of the Southern Capital.

The kontakia and opening portions of the ikoi of the Akathist were read alternately by the hierarch and the concelebrating priests.

The hymns were performed by the men’s choir of the Alma-Ata Diocese.

Following the reading of the Akathist, clergy and faithful sang the prayer Beneath Thy Compassion and the magnification to the Most Holy Theotokos, after which the hierarch delivered a sermon on the veneration of the Mother of God.