Western Diocese

On June 27, 2009, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, presided over Samuel Ilanjian's 65^th anniversary event, organized by AGBU "ARDAVAZD" Theatre Group, sponsored by AGBU-Western Region, which was held at AGBU Alex Manoogian Center in Pasadena, California.  The event was aimed at recognizing Ilanjian's dedicated efforts in the realms of art, culture and community life throughout many years of his fruitful life.

The Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian reads the letter of commendation and blessing of His Holiness Karekin IIDuring the festive program, the Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian read the letter of commendation and blessing of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians addressed to the honoree, in which the Pontiff praised Samuel Ilanjian for his many years of dedicated service to the Armenian communities in Lebanon and the United States. In the letter, His Holiness also noted that upon the request of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese, Samuel Ilinjian was to be presented with Sts. Sahag-Mesrob Medallion in recognition of his distinguished service to the Armenian art and culture.

The Primate presents Samuel Ilanjian with Sts. Sahag-Mesrob Medallion On behalf of His Holiness Karekin II, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian presented Samuel Ilanjian with Sts. Sahag-Mesrob Medalion and praised him for his contribution to the cultural life of various Armenian communities throughout his fruitful life.