The exhibition on the Shroud of Turin was organised by the Russian Orthodox Church in Central Asia, together with the Sovereign Order of Malta and the charitable foundation Kirche im Not.
Newsroom (25/08/2025, Gaudium Press )A significant international exhibition dedicated to the Holy Shroud of Turin opened in early August in Kazakhstan’s capital, serving as both a spiritual pilgrimage and an educational endeavor. The event, blessed by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, is a precursor to the 8th Congress of World Leaders of Traditional Religions, underscoring the nation’s role as a hub for interreligious cooperation.
Titled as a spiritual and educational display, the exhibition is a collaborative effort between the Russian Orthodox Church in Central Asia, the Sovereign Order of Malta, and the international Catholic aid foundation Kirche in Not (Aid to the Church in Need). It is hosted within the city’s Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, a symbol of Kazakhstan’s commitment to global harmony.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by a distinguished assembly of civil and religious leaders. His Excellency Archbishop George Panamthundil, the Apostolic Nuncio to Kazakhstan, joined Metropolitan Aleksandr (Mogilev) of Astana, Kazakh Minister of Culture Aida Balaeva, and Regina Lynch, President of Kirche in Not. The presence of Princess Sofia of Löwenstein-Wertheim-Rosenberg, a noted expert on the Shroud’s history, highlighted the exhibit’s scholarly gravitas.
For the Catholic faithful, the Shroud is a profound sacred object, believed to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity for contemplation, featuring a full-size replica of the Shroud, 27 informational panels, and meticulously crafted replicas of the Crown of Thorns and the nails of the Crucifixion, made according to first-century customs.
In his remarks, Metropolitan Aleksandr referred to the Shroud as “what is called the Fifth Gospel,” a relic that unites scientific inquiry with deep spiritual devotion. The sentiment was echoed by civil authorities, with Minister Balaeva noting the exhibit’s power to offer “testimony to the history of the spiritual growth of all humanity” and to “regenerate the moral guidelines and values that enrich the human soul” in a troubled world.
The Catholic leaders present emphasized the significance of the event taking place in Kazakhstan. Archbishop Panamthundil noted the aptness of holding the exhibition in “a country known for its ability to develop interreligious dialogue, mutual respect and peace-building.” His Excellency Bishop Tomasz Peta of the Astana diocese affirmed that “religious freedom truly exists here,” allowing for a fruitful collaboration that deepens the spiritual awareness of the people.
Open until September 25th, the exhibition provides a space for interfaith encounter centered on one of Christianity’s most revered and studied artifacts. It stands as a testament to the power of shared sacred history to bridge divides, inviting all visitors—regardless of creed—to reflect on the mysteries of faith, sacrifice, and redemption.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Asianews.it
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