August 22, 2026. Alma-Ata. Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan visited the Orthodox Abode of Mercy – the social welfare center of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District in the settlement of Tuimebayeva, Alma-Ata Region, which comprises an orphanage and a home for the elderly.
The Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan was accompanied by O.N. Ovchinnikov, Secretary of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District, Honored Worker of Kazakhstan and Honored Art Worker of the Russian Federation; V.M. Kapsamun, President of the Eleos-Meirim Public Foundation; and representatives of the Board of Trustees.
At the Abode of Mercy, the hierarch and his guests were welcomed by Archpriest Vyacheslav Pugachev, Director of the social center and Head of the Metropolitan District Commission for Charity and Social Ministry.
Upon arrival, the Metropolitan and those accompanying him offered prayers at the house church dedicated to the Venerable Martyrs Grand Duchess Elizabeth and Nun Barbara, after which he venerated the relics of the saints.
Together with V.M. Kapsamun, President of the Eleos-Meirim Public Foundation, the Head of the Metropolitan District visited elderly residents in the palliative care unit, where 30 people are currently receiving assistance. The home for the elderly accommodates a total of 54 residents. The archpastor spoke with those residing at the social institution and wished them strength of soul and body.
His Eminence blessed the kitchen facilities of the home for the elderly following their major renovation, carried out with the blessing of the Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan and with the support of the Eleos-Meirim Public Foundation (President – V.M. Kapsamun). The hierarch thanked the benefactors for their assistance to the Orthodox Abode of Mercy, as well as all those who carry out their noble ministry and care for orphans at the diocesan social welfare center.
The Metropolitan and his guests then toured the residential buildings, grounds, and auxiliary facilities, after which they met with teachers, caregivers, staff members, and medical personnel. The diocesan social welfare center currently employs a large team of qualified specialists working with children of various age groups and with adolescents experiencing behavioral difficulties.
A group photograph was taken to commemorate the visit.
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