Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, is a Recipient of the 2014 Ellis Island Medal of Honor

BURBANK — The Stewardship Committee of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America has organized a celebration dinner honoring Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, a recipient of the 2014 Ellis Island Medal of Honor. The event will be held on Tuesday June 17, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. at the Taglyan Cultural Center (1201 N. Vine Street, Los Angeles, CA 90038).

Reflecting on the prestigious honor His Eminence said, “The United States of America has been a safe haven for the Armenian people. The blessed land of opportunity has welcomed immigrants from all walks of life with open arms. We are eternally grateful to this country for bestowing upon us the democratic values and human freedoms by virtue of which we are able to practice our ancestral Christian Faith with dignity and honor.”

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Stewardship Program of the Western Diocese – a mission aimed at training and educating Priesthood-Candidates as they prepare to lead the flock of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

For tickets, reservations, or sponsorship opportunities call the Diocesan Office at 818-558-7474 or Stewardship Committee member Mrs. Aida Sethian at 626-695-8013.

The National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO) sponsors the Ellis Island Medals of Honor which are presented annually to American citizens who have distinguished themselves within their own ethnic groups while exemplifying the values of the American way of life.

Past Medalists include six U.S. Presidents, one foreign President, Nobel Prize winners and leaders of industry, education, the arts, sports and government. And, of course, everyday Americans who have made freedom, liberty and compassion a part of their life’s work.