On Saturday, February 10, 2018, a gala was held at Holy Cross Cathedral’s “Bagramian” Hall in Montebello honoring the legacy of humanitarian and philanthropist George Mardikian, a founding member of the Armenian national Committee to Aid Homeless Armenians (ANCHA). The event was organized by the Armenian Displaced Persons Community and Armenian Mesrobian School, and proceeds will benefit Mesrobian School, which was founded by displaced persons brought to the U.S. by ANCHA.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, attended and conveyed his message. In attendance were ARF Central Committee Chair Mr. Daron Der Khachadourian, representatives and members of the “Tro” Gomideh, Holy Cross Cathedral, Mesrobian School, sister organizations, DP community, and bust sponsors Mr. and Mrs. Haig and Argine Kelegian.
The evening began at the foyer with a prayer for the repose of George Mardikian’s soul, which was offered by the Prelate and accompanying clergy, after which the bust was unveiled.
The program continued inside the hall with the invocation by the Prelate, who then delivered his message paying tribute to “an extraordinary individual and true patriot.” His Eminence spoke of George Mardikian’s vision and altruism and his profound love for his nation and people which was manifested through his founding of ANCHA and other philanthropic and educational endeavors in the Middle East. He lauded also George Mardikian’s fortitude, resilience, and indomitable spirit, and his passion for helping others build a better for themselves as he did for himself from hard work and determination. Finally, the Prelate commended the organizers for their initiative to honor the legacy of George Mardikian, adding that the statue will serve as an everlasting and tangible tribute to a rare breed of man whose life was characterized by goodwill and service, and concluded by hoping that his life will serve as an inspiration for all to live with purpose, goodness, and love for our nation and people.
The program included remarks by ARF Central Committee member Mr. Levon Kirakosian and Mesrobian School Principal Mr. David Ghoogasian, presentation of awards on behalf of the school, and a documentary on the life of George Mardikian.
The evening served as an expression of gratitude by the DP community, a large number of whom settled in Montebello and became the backbone of the Armenian community and the founders of Mesrobian School and who continue to lend their valuable support to the School and Holy Cross Cathedral.
