(lubavitch.com)  Vladimir Nikolaevitch Khomenko was inaugurated as the city’s new Governor at a ceremony April 27, at the Chernigov regional administration. The event was attended by religious leaders of different faiths.

Governor Khomenko addressed the leaders about the importance of working towards moral and spiritual goals and imparting them to the citizens.

“Let us work together toward the vision of a greater Chernigov.”

Rabbi Yisroel Silberstein, of Chernigov, spoke about the responsibility of leaders to help others. 

“With a new position comes a new responsibility. What one did yesterday, does not suffice for today. We must always advance in spirituality."

Semyon Bellman, the president of the Jewish Community of Chernigov, mentioned the positive relations between the Jewish community and Governor Khomenko. Through his critical support, the Chernigov Music Festival was created. This event helps preserve the rich Ukrainian and Jewish cultures for future generations.

“It is fitting that Vladimir Khomenko is the only governor in Ukraine to be reappointed under the new president Viktor Yanukovych,” said Rabbi Silberstein.

Governor Khomenko was presented with a silver Menorah, symbolic, said the Rabbi, of the message “that we must always increase our worthy activities”.