POPE’S DAY IN ASTANA

On June 29, the Solemnity of the Holy Chief Apostles Peter and Paul, the Apostolic Administrator for Catholics of the Byzantine Rite in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, Mitred Archpriest Vasyl Hovera, together with the priests of the Apostolic Administration, Fr. Yaroslav Holovchuk, Fr. Ihor Svitovyi, and Fr. Oleksandr Adomenas, took part in a diplomatic reception organized by the Apostolic Nunciature at the invitation of the Apostolic Nuncio to the Republic of Kazakhstan, Archbishop George George Panamthundil.

The reception was dedicated to Pope’s Day, a special celebration observed on the Solemnity of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul and recognized as a public holiday in the Vatican. This day holds special significance for the entire Catholic Church, as it is connected with the memory of the apostles, upon whose witness of faith the ministry of the Successor of the Apostle Peter, the Pope of Rome, is founded.

The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, religious communities, and public organizations. The priests of the Apostolic Administration had the opportunity to meet with diplomats and guests of the reception, as well as to speak about the activities of the Apostolic Administration for Catholics of the Byzantine Rite in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

A special highlight of the reception was the performance of the Greek Catholic choir of the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul in Pavlodar, under the direction of Tetiana Holovchuk. During the solemn part of the event, the choir performed the anthems of the Holy See and the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The participation of the representatives of the Apostolic Administration in this event became an important sign of unity with the Universal Church, as well as an opportunity to present the life and ministry of Catholics of the Byzantine Rite in Kazakhstan.