On May 15th, President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko met with Franklin Graham, the President and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
The Head of State thanked his guest for taking the time to visit Belarus despite the distance, and for discussing not only interfaith dialogue but also international relations, “You are somewhat familiar with Belarus, having been here before, and you have also visited Russia several times. Therefore, you understand the direction in which the situation is developing both in our country and in the Russian Federation. I am confident that you know that 25 religious denominations live peacefully, coexist and interact in Belarus. Honestly, we are very proud of the interfaith harmony that exists in Belarus. There are 850 Protestant communities, 20 missions and 5 educational institutions in our country. Therefore, your faith is very widely represented here.”
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association was founded in 1950. Its headquarters is located in Charlotte (North Carolina, USA). From May 14th to 18th, Franklin Graham is visiting Belarus, during which he is scheduled to participate in a number of events.
The Head of State expressed gratitude to the leader of the Evangelical Association for the support and assistance provided to Belarusians, “We sincerely appreciate this. It’s not about the size. I believe that after our meeting, you will focus more on Belarus. You are doing a great job. Thank you for your help and support. Two-thirds of all humanitarian aid we receive in Belarus comes from the United States. Surprisingly, despite all the talks about ‘sanctions, sanctions...’, the Americans are managing well. Your contribution is also part of this humanitarian aid from the US. Thank you.”
The President noted that in the next day or two, Mr. Graham will have a meeting with Belarusian Protestant believers, “You will gain a better understanding of how they live here. However, I want to reassure you that this [the peaceful coexistence of different denominations] is a defining feature for us. We are proud of our interfaith harmony, so there is no need to be concerned about your Protestants — our Protestants.”
The Head of State shared that he has warm personal memories of Belarusians of this faith dating back to Soviet times.
“You know, the Soviet Union was officially an atheist state. However, behind the scenes, everyone prayed. When I was a party committee secretary working in agriculture, half of my farm workers were Protestants. The farm head where I served was actually a follower of your faith… I still keep in contact with him, and his son now works somewhere in the United States,” the President added. “So, you see, I have a deep understanding and respect for your faith. Since then, I have held a very positive attitude towards our people who follow this faith.”
Aleksandr Lukashenko added that, as a historian by education, he was very interested in understanding how Protestants differ from Orthodox and Catholics, “I have visited their homes. I must tell you, Franklin, they are incredibly kind and hardworking people.”
The Head of State mentioned that he became certain of this after assuming the presidency. Aleksandr Lukashenko specifically pointed out that a significant number of Belarusians who follow the Protestant faith reside in the southern part of the country, particularly in the Brest Region, “These are very hardworking and kind people, which is why I hold a very positive view and attitude towards them.”
