Astana: A new Marian church honoring persecuted Christians has been consecrated in Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, marking a significant milestone in the region. The church, established by the U.S.-based organization Nazarene.org, is the sixth of its kind globally and the first such sanctuary dedicated to persecuted believers in Central Asia. The consecration ceremony took place on June 20.
Situated in a nation where Christianity has long endured suppression, the church was built with the blessings of Archbishop Thomas Peta and the support of Auxiliary Bishop Athanasius Schneider. As a powerful symbol of solidarity with suffering Christians, an icon titled Mother of the Persecuted crafted by Lebanese Melkite nun Sister Souraya Hero was installed in the sanctuary. The icon features an Aramaic inscription, the historic language of Christ, reflecting deep spiritual and cultural roots.
Although Kazakhstan declared religious freedom following its independence in 1991, in practice, religious minorities continue to face restrictions. Roughly 70% of the population is Muslim, while Christians primarily from the Russian Orthodox tradition comprise about 26%. Catholics remain a small minority but play a vital role in the country through education, worship, and social outreach.
Kazakhstan currently ranks 39th on the Open Doors World Watch List, which tracks countries where Christians experience the most persecution. The newly consecrated church stands as both a place of prayer and a symbol of resilience for believers around the world who suffer for their faith.