Western Diocese

On November 3, 2007, the elegant 35^th anniversary event of the Armenian Assembly was held at the Beverly Hills Hotel. The Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, representing the Primate, read His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian’s message and prayer that may God bless the Armenian Assembly and its members with more energy and enthusiasm in achieving their objectives. The Martyred journalist Hrant Dink’s wife was especially mentioned and distinguished in the Primate’s prayer:

“O Almighty God, tonight we offer our prayer of thanksgiving for the blessed institution of Armenian Assembly of America, which has actualized an important task and mission in the life of the Armenian Americans in this blessed country of the United States of America.

Tonight’s gathering makes an important milestone in the life of Armenian Assembly with the 35^th anniversary celebration. We ask God’s abundant blessings upon the leaders of Armenian Assembly so that may they continue their God-entrusted mission of instilling in the hearts of Armenian American citizens of the United States of America special love and dedication for this great country which has given us all the means to maintain our national identity and has supported us in our efforts in rebuilding of Armenia.

Tonight we particularly pray for the soul of Hrant Dink whose heroic life has been an inspiration for the children of our nation. May the Lord bless his soul and protect his wife Rachael and children.

The eyes of all wait upon you, O Lord, and you give them their food in due season. You open your hand and fill all things living with plenty-ness. Glory be to the Father and to the Son, and to the Holy spirit, now and always and forever, Amen.”