Metropolitan Alexander Attended a Children's Celebration in the "Folk Tales Park of the Nations of Kazakhstan"

On August 31, 2024, following the Divine Liturgy at the Kazan Cathedral, a children's celebration took place in the "Folk Tales Park of the Nations of Kazakhstan" with the blessing of Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan, marking the beginning of the new academic year.

The event was organized by the "Apostle" Public Foundation, led by its president G.G. Sosnovsky, and the Department of Culture of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District.

Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan attended the celebration.

Participants of the celebration included: the vicars of the Astana Diocese—Bishop Klavdian of Taldykorgan and Bishop Veniamin of Talgar; the Dean of the churches of Almaty and Rector of the St. Nicholas Cathedral, Protopriest Valery Zakharov; the Dean of the Christ Nativity Cathedral, Protopriest Alexander Gaichenya; the Dean of the Kazan Cathedral in Almaty, Priest Georgy Rublinsky; clergy of the Almaty Diocese; President of the "Apostle" Public Foundation, G.G. Sosnovsky; teachers and students of Sunday schools; students from general and secular educational institutions in Almaty; parishioners; and activists of the Orthodox volunteer movement "Seraphim."

Before the event began, the Head of the Metropolitan District addressed the attendees with a greeting. "A person must always keep in their heart the joy from that first encounter with God, remember the strength that drew them to services in the church, the deep, serious feelings that arose for the first time during the reading of the Holy Scriptures, conscious Confession, and Communion of the Holy Mysteries of Christ. Everything that a person acquires in youth—skills, knowledge, habits, abilities—will stay with them forever, becoming part of their inner spiritual core. My dear ones, never forget—God is very close to you, and therefore, in difficult life circumstances, confidently turn to the Lord, and He will help you. Treat your peers, teachers, and mentors with kindness and respect. I wish you all a joyful spirit, God's help, health, peace of mind, and to the educators and staff—strength and fortitude. May the unfading graceful light of Christ illuminate all of us on life's path," said, in particular, Metropolitan Alexander.

During the celebration, numerous children and adolescents of various ages participated in contests, competitions, and quizzes organized by professional entertainers. Everyone interested could attend a painting masterclass.

Everyone was offered refreshments—pastries and hot tea from a samovar.

Metropolitan Alexander interacted with the park guests and event organizers. His Eminence wished the children the fulfillment of good hopes and a joyful spirit.

A significant role in organizing and conducting the event was personally played by the President of the "Apostle" Public Foundation, G.G. Sosnovsky.