Summary of the discourse delivered to the political, religious, diplomatic and leadership of the country during the apostolic visit to Kazakhstan.
Monsignor Joji Vadakara, Vatican City
Pope Francis began his homily by saying that he had come to vast and ancient Kazakhstan as a pilgrim of peace, aiming for dialogue and mutual unity. Thanking Kazakh President Kassym-Yomart Tokaev for the welcome, the Holy Father announced that his address would refer to the dombra, which has become a symbol of the country’s musical culture.
Dombra is part of history
The Pope highlighted that Dombra, which has become part of the history of the Kazakh people, continues to be a link between the past and the present in the face of progress and dynamic changes.
Saint John Paul II
Recalling the apostolic visit of Saint John Paul II to Kazakhstan in September 2001, the Pope recalled how his predecessor described the country as “a land of martyrs, believers, exiles, thinkers and artists”. Pope Francis highlighted that this country, with its experience of suffering and oppression, has always given priority to human dignity, regardless of their religion or caste.
Two teeth
The Pope reminded that Kazakhstan can bring differences together just as two strings of dombra make music. He drew attention to the fact that the country brings together the Asian and European cultures, which are similar to the old and the new, like the hot summer in the country. Quoting the Kazakh proverb that unity is the source of success, the Pope said that the country has about one hundred and eighty ethnic groups, more than eighty languages, different religious and cultural traditions, and a special place for the country to be a country of unity. It was reminded that the call was also made.
healthy secularism
Although it is a secular country as defined by the country’s constitution, the Pope reminded that the country allows the free existence of religion and belief and said that this shows that the country treats all citizens equally and helps all religions , ethnicity, language and culture. groups to understand their acceptance in the country. The Pope emphasized that freedom of religion greatly helps social harmony.
Freedom and the cost of human life
Regarding the meaning of the word Kazakh, referring to the existence of a free and independent human being, the Pope urged that the guarantee of freedom helps to avoid manipulation through encounters between people and societies. The Pope said that the abolition of the death penalty is proof that the country values human life. The Pope reminded that it is important to ensure freedom of thought, conscience and expression.
Civil authorities and public welfare
Citizens can ensure the common good by favoring a democracy that ensures that power is for the benefit of all, the Pope said. The Pope highlighted the recent initiatives in the country to further strengthen the responsibilities of the Senedd and local authorities to ensure a correct distribution of power. The Pope remembered that even if they are changes that cannot be implemented quickly, fulfilling promises will lead to more trust in the people who govern.
Promises and performance
The Pope reminded that democracy and modernization should not be limited to words and promises, but should reach the service of the people by listening to the people and providing solutions to their alleged needs. Workers, youth and vulnerable groups need special attention. True democracy is the answer to extremism and vested interests that threaten the public good and stability in society. In this context, the Pope recalled in his speech the importance of a fair distribution of financial resources and economic sustainability. Rather than the financial profit of a few, the state and the public sector should focus on ensuring the pride of all workers.
Peace, Music and Crisis Ukraine
The Pope wanted the name Kazakhstan to remain synonymous with peace and unity, as well as the culture associated with music. Like Pope John Paul II who came to sow seeds of hope during days of violence in 2001, Pope Francis said he came to voice the cry of many for peace in these days of the miserable war and invasion in Ukraine and the ongoing conflicts elsewhere. The Pope urged that peace is the path to fundamental progress.
Interactions and the progress of the world
Emphasizing the need for diplomatic efforts that promote mutual encounters and dialogue, the Pope reminded us not to forget that those with more power also have more responsibilities. Rather than creating and strengthening different groups, we need leaders who facilitate dialogue internationally. We must build a world that is more sustainable, peaceful, and considerate of future generations.
Peace Efforts and the Holy See
Speaking about world peace, the Pope praised Kazakhstan’s decision to give up nuclear weapons and use energy from cleaner sources. The Pope reminded us that these, along with religious debates, are the seeds of hope for the future that we must mold for the next generation. Ensuring that the holy adventure is close in this endeavour, the Pope mentioned that they started diplomatic relations right after the country got its independence thirty years ago. The Pope highlighted that Catholics in Central Asia have lived here for a long time with an open attitude to inter-faith dialogue, without thinking about conversion.
Conclusion
The Pope ended his speech by thanking the President of Kazakhstan and everyone else for the hospitality he received and the opportunity to have a fraternal dialogue with leaders of different religions. Wishing God to bless Kazakhstan’s call for peace and unity, the Pope assured that he follows with prayer and closeness the work of all for the good of all.
