Pope Francis left Kazakhstan on Thursday afternoon, concluding his 38th apostolic journey. He arrived in Kazakhstan to attend the 7th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.

Addressing bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated persons, seminarians and lay pastors at the Cathedral of the Mother of God in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, on Thursday morning, Pope Francis called on the diversity and strength of the Church to joyfully embrace their spiritual heritage and “bear generous witness to it” in order to bear witness to the promise of Christian hope. He said that the abundance of experiences should be shared with others and encourage everyone to witness the living Church.

In his speech, the Pope reflected on the rich Christian history of Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, and how the example of those who lived their faith teaches us how to live a happy and Christian life.

The Pope noted that all the baptized are one body, rich in countless cultures and ways of life.

Pope said, we must remain attentive and not be paralyzed and immobile with nostalgia, but rather be inspired and grateful for all the wonderful things the Lord has accomplished, motivating us to “set out, to move forwards, to spread the word about Jesus. "

The enormity of the country may make them feel inadequate or not capable of reaching those in corners of the country, especially young people, Pope Francis reassured participants of the meeting that there is a quiet grace in being a small church.

Pope Francis gave the example of a Kazak priest, Blessed Bukowinsk, who shared his witness of faith by caring for those in need.

Pope Francis concluded his address with a special consecration to the Heart of Mary Most Holy, venerated as Queen of Peace in Kazakhstan.

In an interview at the end of Pope Francis' Apostolic Journey to Kazakhstan Msgr Khaled Boutros Akasheh insists that the Pope's presence in Nur-Sultan has offered a meaningful contribution to the efforts of interreligious dialogue which offer hope as the war in Ukraine and elsewhere continue to afflict humanity.