On Sunday, October 8, 2017, the annual gala of the Armenian National Committee of America Western Region was held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel with the attendance of public officials, dignitaries, leaders and members of community organizations, sponsors, and friends. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, attended and delivered the invocation.
This year, the organization honored the following individuals for their contributions to the advancement of the Armenian Cause: Garo Paylan, Armenian member of Turkish Parliament – Freedom Award, Terry George, Filmmaker and Director – Arts & Letters, State Senator Anthony Portantino – Legislator of the Year, Bared Maronian, Documentary Filmmaker – Arts & Letters, Congressman David Valadao – Advocate for Justice, and a special tribute to the late musician Chris Cornell.
The Prelate commended the incredible level of devotion and enthusiasm with which the leadership and membership of the ANCA-Western Region serve day in and day out to fulfill the organization’s vast and far-reaching mission, praying for God to continue to bless them with strength, courage, and wisdom so that through them, the voice of the Armenian-American community may continue to resonate through the halls of our government. He blessed the honorees, “bold and principled individuals from different walks of life but with shared purpose, advocating tirelessly for truth and justice through their respective capacities,” and the sponsors, “whose generosity makes it possible for this and all community organizations to grow and expand their scope.” The Prelate concluded by beseeching the Lord to continue to guide our collective path as we serve for the progress and prosperity of our people and our nation.
