Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan congratulated believers on Christmas

"2010 was a landmark year for the Orthodox Christians of Kazakhstan. All the attainment were achieved thanks to the well-considered home policy promulgating mutual respect and religious tolerance. All the people of Kazakhstan celebrated the 20th anniversary of the country's independence. A holy shrine of Kurskaya-Korennaya icon of the Blessed Virgin was brought to Kazakhstan. New eparchies were opened, new temples were dedicated, social, youth and educational activities have developed at all parishes," the message reads.

"I wish all the people of Kazakhstan good health, God's help in good works and peaceable initiatives in 2012. I heartily congratulate everyone on the holiday of peace and God's love - Christmas!"