Remembering Pope Francis: A Shepherd’s Heart for Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia
- Altynai Maria Abaskan
- Apr 21
- 2 min read
With the passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic faithful in Kyrgyzstan and across Central Asia remember a shepherd who reached across vast distances—not only in geography, but also in spirit. His papacy brought our region into clearer focus within the universal Church, offering messages of hope, fraternity, and accompaniment.
His Apostolic Concern for the Peripheries
Pope Francis often spoke of going to the “existential peripheries”—and in doing so, he reminded us in Central Asia that we are not forgotten. Though few in number, the Catholic communities of Kyrgyzstan and our neighbors have always found comfort in his emphasis on inclusion, mercy, and encounter.
Historical Visit to Kazakhstan (2022) and Its Impact
During his historic visit to Kazakhstan in 2022 for the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, Pope Francis stood as a symbol of dialogue and peace. His presence brought renewed encouragement to the faithful across Central Asia. His words—“Peace is not only desired; it is our responsibility”—resonated deeply in our region, where cultures and creeds coexist.
Message to the Bishops of Central Asia
In his support for the newly formed Bishops’ Conference of Central Asia, Pope Francis expressed joy in seeing the growth of synodal unity. He prayed that the bishops might continue to shepherd their flocks with “the smell of the sheep,” a pastoral phrase now cherished in our region.
Legacy of Humility and Hope
Whether through his encyclicals like Fratelli Tutti, or his unwavering commitment to the poor and the environment, Pope Francis challenged us to live the Gospel with simplicity and courage. In Kyrgyzstan, this message bears fruit in our small communities, where hospitality, faith, and compassion reflect the Church he envisioned.
A Kyrgyz Prayer of Thanksgiving
Кудай Таалам, Рахмат Cага, Папа Францискке бизди эстеп, сүйүү менен багып келгендиги үчүн. Анын мурасын жүрөгүбүздө сактайбыз. Оо Жараткан, анын жанын бейиште тынчтык менен тосуп ал. Оомийин.
Lord God, thank You for Pope Francis, who remembered us and shepherded with love. We carry his legacy in our hearts. Receive him in peace into Your heavenly kingdom. Amen.
Господи Боже, благодарим Тебя за Папу Франциска, который не забыл о нас и с любовью нас пастырствовал. Его наследие живёт в наших сердцах. Прими его душу с миром в Своё небесное Царство. Аминь
*All our articles are written with the help of ChatGPT AI and reviewed by human editors.
