"My sense of calling to become a priest was rather sudden, when I was a late-teenager," says Ksachikyan. "I was speaking with one of my friends about the difficultues that the Armenian people had faced throughout history and the challenges that Armenia was facing after its independence in 1991. The day after the conversation, I woke up and somehow the idea of becoming a priest was in my head," he said.
Fr. Daniel Findikyan, Seminary Dean, spoke with gratification about the graduate. "I first met Deacon Mkrtich in Los Angeles when he was 17 years old. He was a lanky teenager, shy, and not able to say much about his sudden impulse to come to Seminary," the dean said. "What a grace it has been for me to watch Mkrtich mature into an eloquent and faith-filled young man, possessing wisdom far beyond his years. He will be a wonderfully effective priest of our beloved church." The Commencement ceremonies, which will begin with a brief prayer service, will begin at 4:00PM and are open to the public. A reception will follow. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by email or by phone: (914) 636-2003. | Abp. Yeghishé Gizirian will preside over the 2011 St. Nersess Commencement. |