"Armenian of the Year" Award

George Mekenian and his late wife Rose, were also honored on Saturday night, May 3, 2003, when they were given the "Armenian of the Year" award during a gala banquet.

Both Mekenians served on the Diocesan Council and have long been supporters of the Diocese and their home parish, St. Thomas Church of Tenafly, NJ.

Their son, Steven, attended in memory of his late mother. George spoke for the family, urging people to give their time and efforts to lead the future generation into the church.

"My earliest recollection was of my grandmother, holding my hand and walking me to church, showing me how to hold my hands during the Creed," George Mekenian said. "We can help expose our grandchildren at an early age to the sights and sounds of our church service. Then when they grow older, we can discuss our values and heritage with them, letting them know what it means to us."

"Friend of the Armenian" Award

Also honored during the evening was Michigan Congressman Joe Knollenberg, the Republican co-chair of the Congressional Armenian Caucus, a group of legislators in Washington who work to pass bills supportive of Armenia and Armenian causes. He was presented with the "Friend of the Armenian" award.