Penza, 6 July 2012. PenzaNews. The day of lifting the dome on the bell tower of Savior Cathedral will be noted not only in the regional history of Penza, but the history of Russia. This was stated by the governor Vasily Bochkarev during the ceremony of consecration of the dome and the bell tower cross on Friday, July 6. “Our ancestors had been building this cathedral for 24 years, and then in an instant it was blown up. Our duty was to restore it, and now we can say that we have done a lot,” said the governor, adding that the people have no future without faith.

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Vasily Bochkarev pointed out that some Penza residents opposed to the restoration of the cathedral, but the vast majority of people agreed that it should be done.

Benjamin, the Bishop of Penza and Kuznetsk, noted the importance of constructing another temple in Penza.

“In a short time in Penza God's house, a house of prayer will be erected for our families, where we shall find peace of mind, and where our children will grow,” he said.

The Bishop added that without the support of the population and the regional authorities restoring the temple would have been very difficult.

“I want to say special thanks to Vasily Bochkarev, who is the engine that gives energy for creation,” noted Bishop Benjamin.