Chairman of the Central Election Commission of the Republic of Belarus I.V. Karpenko Visits the Dormition Cathedral and the Spiritual and Cultural Center of the Metropolitan District in Astana

October 5, 2024. Astana. The Dormition Cathedral and the administrative and spiritual-cultural center of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District, named after Saints Cyril and Methodius, were visited by representatives of the Central Election Commission of the Republic of Belarus, led by Chairman I.V. Karpenko.

The representatives arrived in Kazakhstan’s capital as observers for the national referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan.

With the blessing of Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan, the esteemed guest was welcomed by Archimandrite Sergiy (Karamyshev), Dean of the parishes of Astana, and Protopriest Dmitry Baydek, Sacristan of the Dormition Cathedral.

During the tour of the Republic’s main cathedral, Father Sergiy spoke to the Belarusian delegation about the construction and beautification of the cathedral, the interior frescoes painted by a group of iconographers from Palekh (Russia, Ivanovo region), led by the member of the Union of Artists of Russia V.K. Kurilov, and the creation of the carved, gilded iconostasis made by craftsmen from the Feodor Stratilates Artistic and Production Workshop, following the traditions of the 17th century, and adorned with icons painted by Honored Artist of the Russian Federation S.N. Sokolov.

The meeting between the dean and the guests continued in the fireplace hall of the spiritual-cultural center.

During the conversation, Archimandrite Sergiy (Karamyshev) shared with Igor Vasilyevich and his entourage information about the life of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District and the Diocese of Astana, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. He provided statistical data on the number of dioceses, parishes, and clergy and discussed the Church’s plans for the implementation of educational, cultural, youth, and social projects.

The Dean also informed the guests that, with the blessing of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, the relics of Blessed Matrona of Moscow, one of the most revered saints among Orthodox Christians, are currently visiting Kazakhstan.

At the conclusion of the meeting, which took place in a warm atmosphere, the participants exchanged wishes for success in their good endeavors. As a blessing from the Head of the Metropolitan District, Archimandrite Sergiy presented the guests with icons of the Mother of God “The Inexhaustible Cup” and books detailing the life of Orthodoxy in Kazakhstan.