The construction of the cathedral, as previously mentioned, is in full swing, and its dimensions promise to be record-breaking for the region. The akim of the district, Rishat Turdybekov, reported this at a local maslikhat meeting. However, the deputies expressed concern about the sources of funding and the feasibility of creating such a large religious facility.
The location of the church near the space center sparked a heated reaction among the deputies. They questioned who is financing the project and how necessary such a large church is, as reported by Ulysmedia.kz.
— You claim that you are building the largest church in Central Asia. Who is funding it? Do we really need such a church? Has this issue been discussed? Has the necessity of such a temple been analyzed? We already have many churches, — expressed his opinion deputy Bauyrzhan Smailov.
In response, Rishat Turdybekov stated that the issue has long been resolved and the project is included in the general plan of the capital. He also clarified that the project was approved back in 2018–2019, and budget funds for the construction of the church are not being allocated.
— You know yourself that budget money is not allocated for the construction of mosques and churches. This is done through donations. We are not the initiators of the construction, — added Turdybekov.
Nevertheless, the akim's response did not satisfy the deputies. Smailov tried to raise the issue again, but the moderator quickly changed the subject. It is important to note that in September 2025, the building Orthodox church was visited by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and all Rus, which also drew public attention to this project.
