The Russian Orthodox Church in Turkmenistan plans to open new pilgrimage routes

The Russian Orthodox Church plans to open new pilgrimage routes in Turkmenistan. Archbishop Feofilakt of Piatigorsk and Circassia told TASS that he is temporarily in charge of the Russian Orthodox Church's patriarchal diocese in Turkmenistan.

"At present, we continue dialog with the state authorities on preservation and the possibility of expanding pilgrimage trips to them. Residents of Turkmenistan with great joy, for example, on the Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God go to one of the most beautiful temples - the Church of the Protection of the Mother of God in Mary, in ancient Merv, where there was once a Christian ancient diocese. There is no doubt that we will not only continue to develop these pilgrimage trips here within Turkmenistan, but also create and open new routes," he said.

Vladyka Theophylact reminded that there were ancient Christian dioceses, Christian communities and confessors on the territory of modern Turkmenistan already in the 4th century AD. One of them is the martyr John of Merv, honored by the Russian Orthodox Church. In addition, according to tradition, one of the 12 apostles - Thomas - preached in the ancient Turkestan. "For the Turkmen land, Christian culture is an integral part of history," the archbishop concluded.

There are currently 12 Orthodox communities in Turkmenistan, with 19 priests and deacons serving.