Western Diocese

On May 1, 2009, following the day-long meetings of the 82^nd Diocesan Assembly, a banquet was held on the annual occasion starting at 6:00 PM, at the Gogian Hall of St. James Armenian Church of Los Angeles. Members and delegates of the Diocesan Clergy Conference, the 57^th Ladies Society Assembly, and the 82^nd Diocesan Assembly joined His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian at this celebratory event and enjoyed a warm and festive evening with other faithful from throughout the Diocese.

Recipients of the Archbishops Award. The recipients of the Archbishop's Award for this year were: Mr. Robert Barsam from St. James, Los Angeles; Mr. Chris Yaldezian from St, Peter, Van Nuys, and Mrs. Velo Herbekian from the Armenian Church of the Deseret (Rancho Mirage). The Primate also awarded the Hye Spirit awards to Mr. and Mrs. Armand Akarakian from St. James, Los Angeles, and Mr. and Mrs. Harry Sherinian from St. Vartan, Oakland.  The Primate introduced the members of the Hosting Committee to the guests and thanked for their outstanding work in hosting the 82^nd Diocesan Assembly.