Russian Russian Orthodox Church and Russian Geographical Society Scientific conference in 2022 held a presentation of the book "1,500 Years of Christianity in Central Asia" in Bishkek. The publication is a collection of reports by archaeologists, historians, and art historians on the development of Christianity in Central Asia.
Now the book is also available in Kyrgyz, which became the reason for its separate presentation to Kyrgyz readers. According to Vladimir Rudenko, a member of the Russian Geographical Society, it was the translation into the official language that attracted a significant number of Kyrgyz audiences.
The presentation was also attended by archaeologist, Candidate of Historical Sciences, member of the Writers' Union of Kyrgyzstan Alexander Mikhailovich Kamyshev and other researchers. The speakers noted that scientific evidence and archaeological finds attest to the centuries-old presence of Christianity in the region. The discussion touched upon the issues of ancient crosses, cairns and symbols found on monuments of material culture.
Vladimir Rudenko stressed that interest in the topic is actively growing: "Christianity is a traditional religion not only in Russia, but throughout Central Asia."
He also noted that Kyrgyz Christians from China were among those present, which was one of the unexpected and revealing moments of the meeting.
According to the researcher, the audience actively asked questions about the meaning of Christian symbols, which required referring to the words of the Gospel: "Whoever does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me."
The book has been received by state universities, libraries, as well as religious scholars and historians, which allows it to be used in educational and scientific activities.
According to the participants, the event was an important step in strengthening the understanding that the Christian tradition is part of the cultural heritage of the peoples of Central Asia, and interest in this topic is "rippling through the water."