Stewardship

Diocese Energizes the Community

Once you bring people into the excitement and energy of the Armenian Church community, they are more likely to assume leadership roles and support the Diocese’s ministry programs.

One successful way the Diocese worked to bring new energy to the community in 2003 was by hosting an opening night reception for an exhibit at New York City’s Whitney Museum of American Art featuring the works of Armenian-American modernist artist Arshile Gorky.

More than 500 guests – leaders of the Armenian community from around the globe, Gorky family members, and the honored guest, filmmaker Atom Egoyan – came to the Whitney to pay tribute to the great Armenian artist.

“We are here today to pay tribute to the genius of Arshile Gorky, one of the most influential American artists, in whose heart was forever etched his ancient roots in Van and Armenia,” said Vicki Hovanessian, a contemporary art collector from Chicago who organized the reception for the Eastern Diocese.

Gorky’s works speak to Armenians about a shared identity. Born in Van, the heart of historicArmenia, and tormented during the Armenian Genocide, during which his mother died of starvation, Gorky eventually became an artistic force inAmerica, before his tragic suicide.

Six of the Gorky works displayed at the Whitney are part of the Eastern Diocese’s collection.

Building success

The reception generated over $104,000 to support Diocesan ministries and programs. More importantly, it was a chance for the community to feel pride in one of its talented sons. The high turnout also showed the surrounding society the dedication Armenians feel towards their culture and faith.

Buoyed by the energy created by the gala, various individuals offered their support and leadership to the Diocese and its ministries.

“It’s so important to have events like this, where Armenians can come together,” said George Kassis, the Diocese’s director of communications and stewardship. “When you see others excited about their faith and heritage, and giving their time and resources, you begin to give more of yourself.”