Hello!

My name is Jack Terzian, and I am studying to pursue priesthood in the Armenian Catholic Rite. I am currently enrolled at the Angelicum in Rome, and am seeking support for my journey as I study and grow in prayer, faith, discipline and knowledge.

I come from an Italian and Armenian background. After receiving a call to the priesthood in college, I chose to follow this path. After much discernment, I moved toward pursuing the priesthood in the Armenian Catholic Rite. My father is a member of this rite, and grew up in the Armenian Catholic Church.

In my discernment, I learned about the possibility of being ordained as a married man. Though I am not currently married or in a relationship, I believe the Lord has invited me to discern this call openly.

Unfortunately, the Armenian Catholic Church is not currently equipped to financially support men on this path, though they do still encourage the call. I was told by my bishop that the qualifications are to be married and have completed the necessary studies.

Having received this information, I decided to return to Rome to study Philosophy and Theology. Prior, I was a member of the Armenian seminary, but could not stay because that option only remains open for those who desire to pursue a calling in the celibate priesthood.

I speak Italian and basic Armenian, and desire to continue to learn both of these languages and cultures, so as to be able to serve the world and all cultures in a greater and deeper capacity.

I am a musician and artist, and I seek to use the gifts that the Lord has given me to spread the redemptive message of the Gospel and the Good News of the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. I write and compose music that speaks of God's glory and personal redemption.

In addition, I have great aspirations to and prior experience of working with youth. I desire to lead them to know Jesus and understand their identities as beloved children of God. At home in Philadelphia, I also started a young adult group in honor of Pier Giorgio Frassati, a soon-to-be saint, in which we worship, serve, and share in community together.

I have a desire to unite the East and West through art, culture, prayer, and spiritual unity. I am answering the call of the Church and its leaders to rise up and become the saint that God has called me to be. My deepest desire is to serve the Church, all peoples, and be conformed to Christ in my entire body, mind, and spirit.

Attached is my acceptance letter to the Angelicum, written in Italian. The letter asserts that I was a prior student, and have been re-accepted back into the university for the 5-year program of Philosphy and Theology.

I am sincerely grateful for your contributions, and I will remember you in my prayers and eventual priesthood.

I am currently applying for an academic scholarship for the full program. I am asking for monetary support for this academic year.