Study tour of Armenia to dovetail with the 60th anniversary of the Jinishian M

LOUISVILLE — People who are interested in exploring the history, culture and landscapes of Armenia are invited to participate in the Jinishian Memorial Program’s annual study tour. 

The Discover Armenia Mission Tour takes place Oct. 1-10 and will be hosted by staff of the Jinishian Memorial Program (JMP), an international relief and development agency administered by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). 

“People who enjoy learning about a country through meaningful local connections and a friendly atmosphere should strongly consider this study tour,” said Eliza Minasyan, who manages JMP. “Participants will discover not only Armenia’s rich history and ancient heritage but also its present-day life, current challenges and remarkable resilience.” 

July 30 is the deadline to apply for the tour, which begins in  Armenia’s capital city, Yerevan, and “boasts grand Soviet-era architecture, charming cafes, and bustling markets,” according to the tour agenda. 

Along with learning about the town’s history and culture, participants will gain insight into the work of JMP, which empowers Armenians across the Middle East and Europe through economic development, community health, education and spiritual upliftment.

“Our foundation is built on the kindness and compassion of simple, caring individuals,” Minasyan said. “We are not supported by wealthy magnates but by middle-class donors whose generosity of spirit helps make dreams possible.”

This year’s tour dovetails with JMP’s 60th anniversary, which adds a special note of significance to the educational opportunity.

“Participants will not only experience Armenia through its history, culture and landscapes but also gain a deeper understanding of six decades of compassionate service, development work and human connections that have impacted countless lives,” Minasyan said.

There will be several organized events, including an “expo for one of our economic development programs,” she said. “We’ll hold the expo for a few days where all these businesses that were supported to be established in the regions of Armenia will come to promote their products and share and communicate with each other.”

Sights featured on the tour include cultural treasures, such as the Holy Mother See of Etchmiadzin Cathedral, one of the first Christian cathedrals in the world, and the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni. 

The tour includes visits to ancient monasteries as well as cities that range from old to contemporary (Photo courtesy of the Jinishian Memorial Program).

“There also will be visits to ancient monasteries, old and contemporary cities, breathtaking mountains, caves and landscapes that reflect Armenia’s unique blend of history, spirituality, resilience, and natural beauty,” Minasyan said.

The study tour is open to anyone, but there are certain individuals for whom it might be especially beneficial. For example, this tour is “ideal for those interested in development work and the ongoing process of post-Soviet democratization and social transition,” Minasyan said. “It is an opportunity to experience firsthand the culture, faith, spiritual strength and hospitality of a nation that has miraculously survived through centuries of empires and hardships while preserving its identity and values.”

Former tour participant Eric Diekhans wrote in a 2024 reflection, “I can declare without hyperbole that my 10 days in Armenia was the trip of a lifetime. I will return to Armenia, and I’ll bring a new appreciation for this country steeped in tradition but unafraid of change.”

Most of the tour takes place on a bus, with moderate walking required and plenty of opportunities for “friend-raising,” Minasyan said.

“We intentionally keep our groups small, so participants can communicate openly, build friendships and learn from one another,” she said. “We eat together, walk together, learn together and celebrate together. Every day brings something unexpected, meaningful and beautiful, making the journey not only educational but also deeply personal and unforgettable.”

For more information about the tour and about the Jinishian Memorial Program, go here.

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