Called to Serve

Yesterday, I had the joy of welcoming and blessing the new students of St. Nersess Armenian Seminary at St. Vartan Cathedral. Deacons Armen, Thomas, Sarkis, and Subdeacon Serge are embarking on their first year of seminary life-a new chapter in their journey of faith, discipleship, and service to Christ and His Holy Church.

Every journey begins with an encounter. The Gospels remind us that discipleship always begins with a simple but profound encounter with the Lord. Andrew and Peter were casting their nets, James and John were mending theirs, and Matthew was sitting at his tax collector’s booth when Jesus came to them and said, “Follow me.” That first encounter changed everything.

Our seminarians are now living that same reality. They, too, have heard Christ’s call and responded with courage: “Here I am, Lord.” Like the apostles who left behind their nets and tables, these young men are stepping into a new season of formation, prayer, and service.

Over the next three years, they will walk closely with Christ—through study, through worship, through the daily rhythm of life in community. Just as the apostles followed Jesus from town to town, listening to His teaching and witnessing His works, so too will our seminarians learn to recognize His presence in their studies, their struggles, and their growth.

Let us pray for our seminarians as they begin this new academic year. May they encounter Christ deeply and continually. May their minds be sharpened, their hearts expanded, and their spirits strengthened for the ministry that awaits them. And may we, as their church family, walk with them, encourage them, and be inspired by their example.

Let us also take this moment to renew our own encounter with Christ. For Discipleship is not meant only for clergy. You may not be standing at the altar, but right where you are—in your home, at your job, in your neighborhood—God is calling you. His invitation is the same: walk with Him, serve with joy, and let your life shine with His love. And each new morning God gives us another opportunity to rise and say with faith: “Here I am, Lord. I will follow You.”