Western Diocese

On July 13, 2007 His Eminence Abp. Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese, received the Honorable Eric Garcetti, President of the Los Angeles City Council, at the Headquarters of the Western Diocese to discuss matters of mutual importance. For many years the Diocese has enjoyed a strong and productive relationship with Councilmember Garcetti, whose Thirteenth District includes the areas of Little Armenia and St. John Armenian Church.

The meeting was conducted in a warm and friendly atmosphere. It began as the Primate provided the councilmember with an overview of the Diocese’s current initiatives including the training of candidates to the priesthood, establishing a long-term strategic plan for the Diocese, and the events planned for the celebration of the 80^th anniversary of the Western Diocese (2007). He also proposed a program that would allow Diocesan youth to seek internships with the City of Los Angeles. This was also a joyous occasion for those in attendance as the Primate chose this meeting to inform councilmember Garcetti that he would be the recipient of the Civic Award of the Western Diocese for 2007 to be presented to him on December 1^st during the annual Diocesan Ball.

 “Eric Garcetti has been a cherished friend of the Armenian Community, who has visited Armenia and has been instrumental in the implementation of the Yerevan – Los Angeles Sister City program. As a young leader of the City of Los Angeles, his vision and commitment to serve the community is commendable and inspiring,” stated the Primate.

Mr. Garcetti responded to the Primate’s initiatives and commended him for his efforts. Additionally he discussed several exciting programs he is currently developing to benefit the Armenian Community, especially the youth.

Also attending the meeting on behalf of the City of Los Angeles were Lynnette Amerian, Executive Assistant to the Councilmember, and Jane Berner, Assistant Planning Director; participating on behalf of the Diocese were Fr. Manoog Markarian, Parish Priest of St. John Armenian Church, Hollywood, Dn. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Chairman of the Diocesan Council, Deputy Sheriff Tevan Aroustamian, and Dn. Matthew Ash.

At the conclusion of the meeting the Primate and Dn. Der Mugrdechian thanked the Councilmember for his efforts on behalf the Armenian Community and the residents of Los Angeles.