Three Armenian American Judges Honored At The Western Diocese

The Honorable Armenuhi Amy Ashvanian, the Honorable Michael Amerian and the Honorable Victoria Bedrossian-Wilson, three distinguished judges, were honored at the Western Diocese on Wednesday, April 4, 2018. More than 200 guests attended the special evening.

The Zorayan Museum, in which classical and contemporary works of Armenian artists were on display, was the venue of the event. The exhibition, showcasing the personal collection of art aficionado Hayk Amirkhanyan, was sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Edi and Talin Sarafoglu and was organized by the Zorayan Museum Committee. It was dedicated to the honorees.

In his remarks, Archbishop Derderian commended the judges. His Eminence noted the immense joy felt by the Armenian-American community in celebration of their appointments to the California Superior Courts in Los Angeles. The judges were introduced by the young professionals of Nerouj.

Below is the Primate’s message in its entirety.

Tonight’s celebration is unique. As we continue to celebrate the Glorious Resurrection of Christ, the celebration becomes more meaningful and visible through the lives of three distinguished judges who have graced the Armenian community and the community at large with their vision of excellence. I have often said that life is a stewardship entrusted to us by God, which needs to be lived wisely enlightening the lives of our fellow brothers and sisters.

To me personally and to the Diocese as well as for the members of the community, the elevation of distinguished individuals to judgeship has greater significance. In all of our successful steps, we want to share the resilience of our nation whose life’s journey especially in the last century has been tumultuous and torturous.

Therefore, the revival of our community is expressed through the success stories of our people. I cannot possibly find the right words to express my joy and gratitude to our distinguished judges only because words cannot encapsulate the joy of our people.  

Tonight, I would like to implement a new method of introduction of our honorees. Three of our Nerouj young professionals will be given the honor and privilege to make the presentations.

I also would like to note that tonight’s art exhibition showcasing the wondrous works of Armenian classical and contemporary artists, is dedicated to our honorable judges. The beautiful exhibition is held in the Zorayan Museum under the patronage of Mr. and Mrs. Edi and Talin Sarafoglu. As always, Mr. and Mrs. Sarafoglu have been staunch supporters of all Diocesan missions including those aimed at cultural enrichment.

The paintings being showcased is from the personal collection of Mr. Hayk Amirkhanyan, an art aficionado and a devout member of our Zorayan Museum Committee. His presence and valuable insight is commendable and greatly appreciated, indeed.

I personally and on behalf of all of us would like to extend a very warm welcome and deep gratitude to our honorable judges and wish them success in their respective careers.