HONORING OUR FRIENDS

Saturday night a gala banquet capped off the successful Diocesan Assembly. Guests filled the room as the Shushi Dance Ensemble of the St. Vartan Cathedral -- which was recently highlighted in a photo in National Geographic magazine -- swirled, twirled, and moved to bring the Armenian theme of the night to life.

Embodying the continuation of a culture, it was announced the Shushi would perform next year in Nagorno-Karabagh, commemorating the Armenian Genocide.

During the banquet the Diocese honored two men for their continuation in continuing and improving the Armenian culture.

Rabbi Arthur Schneier, founder and president of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation -- an international organization dedicated to freedom of religion and human rights – was presented with the Friend of the Armenians Award. The Armenian of the Year Award was presented to Dr. Vartan Gregorian, president of the Carnegie Corporation and former president of Brown University and the New York Library.

"Both of our honorees are men of deep faith, which has inspired them to action," said Archbishop Khajag Barsamian. "Neither has lost their faith in the better angels of human nature. Their sense of hope has helped them not only endure but excel in life."

Both men came from humble backgrounds and overcame obstacles to rise to prominence. Rabbi Schneier was a survivor of the Holocaust and Dr. Gregorian came to America from Iran and built himself up through the academic world.

"And both have dedicated their efforts to the greater good," the Primate said. "This weekend we talked about stewardship: the giving of your time, talent, and treasure. Each of these men exemplify that virtue at the highest level."

In his remarks, Dr. Gregorian urged the banquet guests to do what they can to bolster the Republic of Armenia.

"We have to take care of not only our local communities, but one land, small as it is, which has been entrusted to us," he said. "Armenia needs you and you need Armenia. We have to learn to become great ancestors; not to live for the moment but live for the future."

Rabbi Schneier spoke of his efforts to build ecumenical bridges to face international terrorism, which he called the great scourge of the century.

"We value life. We believe in coexistence, in dialogue," he said. "We're going to strengthen those leaders who believe in dialogue and peaceful coexistence. And we hope by doing this we will send a message and awaken a silent majority."

Posted by Jake at May 2, 2004 12:32 AM