Contrary to media reports, the Pope is going to Kazakhstan. Earlier, in an interview with the Portuguese CNN, Francis said that doctors recommended not participate in the Seventh Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions because of health problems. However, the organizers expect the arrival of the Pope in the capital on Sep 13. Of course, the most anticipated event for pilgrims from all over the world will be a religious mass, in which everyone can take part, regardless of religion, El.kz reports with reference to Astana TV.
"About 4,000 pilgrims go from all over the world and from all over Kazakhstan – they go specifically to Mass. All pilgrims travel for the Pope and go to every city in which he holds this Mass. In fact, this is a very cool event, because people from Europe, Russia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan go for the Pope and, also, see our country. Pope Francis will hold Holy Mass on Wednesday, September 14, at 16:45 at the Expo – its duration will be two hours. Admission is free, however, to participate you need to book a ticket on the website kassir.kz until September 11. The organizers recommend coming to the venue by public transport to avoid traffic jams. Special buses at 12 stops throughout the city will be available for all everyone - you can see their list on your screens. At these stops it will be possible to leave your private cars. Buses will take the participants of the prayer service to their destination free of charge, and after that they will take everyone back," Nazym Zhangazinova, an official representative of the congress said.