Penza, 8 July 2013. PenzaNews. Celebrations devoted to the Day of Family, Love and Fidelity were held in the central Park of Culture and Recreation named after V. Belinsky in Penza on Monday, July 8. At first, a fire was lit near the icon of faithful spouses Pyotr and Fevronia of Murom, who are the patron saints of Christian marriage.

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Then the governor of the Penza region Vasily Bochkarev addressed those present with a greeting speech and stressed the importance of preserving family values.

“Today, one of the main problems is divorce. There are more than 30% of single mothers in Russia,” the head of the region stated.

He also wished those present to have strong families and raise children who would become active citizens praising the Penza region.

“Happy Holiday! I wish you health, love, happiness, and as much opportunities and luck as possible,” the governor added.

Seventy couples who have been married for over 25 years were honored during the solemn ceremony.

Governor Vasily Bochkarev and Chairman of the Legislative Assembly of the Penza region Ivan Belozertsev awarded them with medals, diplomas and memorable gifts.

At the end of the celebration, each family could lit the icon-lamp from the fire and take it home.