On a mission to Armenia
Registration is now open for the Jinishian Memorial Program’s October 2025 Study Tour
LOUISVILLE — Armenia’s rich history, vibrant culture, faith traditions and breathtaking scenery will be on full display when the Jinishian Memorial Program once again offers its annual Study Tour to Armenia, Oct. 1-10.
Hosted by local JMP staff, this immersive study tour will provide firsthand insight into faith-based community development projects throughout Armenia, while also allowing participants to explore the beauty of Yerevan, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Ararat, and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s post-Soviet transformation.
The Jinishian Memorial Program, administered by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), was established in 1966 through an endowment from Vartan H. Jinishian to provide economic, social and spiritual assistance to millions of Armenians in Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, Armenia, Georgia and other countries. Its fundamental mission is to help people transition from poverty and despair to self-sufficiency and hope.
“The primary goals of our study tours are to learn about Armenia through the eyes of local people; understand its past, present and aspirations for the future; and experience local tradition, hospitality, humor and culinary delights,” said Eliza Minasyan, JMP coordinator. “Participants learn about our development projects and often appreciate and build upon what they have in their own life and are inspired by the resilience, creativity and dynamism of the Armenian people. They often continue to stay involved and connect with us.”
In addition to visiting selected projects, those taking the tour will also have ample opportunity to go sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide, who will enrich their experience with local history and cultural insights.
Reflecting on his own experience, 2024 JMP Study Tour participant, Eric Diekhans, a member of Lake View Presbyterian Church in Chicago, called Armenia “a country steeped in tradition but unafraid of change.”
The cost of the tour, which includes food, housing, and all in-country transportation (land only), is $2,200 per person with JMP donors eligible to receive a 10% discount. The deadline to register is May 1.
“Most of our tour participants leave Armenia with a profound appreciation for its people and a renewed motivation to make a positive impact in their own communities,” added Minasyan. “One former participant encapsulated the experience perfectly: ‘All I can say is, go … and let the people, their faith and the landscapes draw you into their embrace.’"
To download the application form, click here. Questions about the study tour may be directed by email to Eliza Minasyan. To read the stories of former participants, guests of Jinishian, click here and here.
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