Giris Azize Ordained as Catholic Priest at Age 64

After a 29-year marriage and a career change, a former husband and father was ordained in Boston.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Catholicism

Giris Azize Ordained as Catholic Priest at Age 64

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On May 16, 2026, 64-year-old Giris Azize was ordained as a Catholic priest at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston. Azize, who is now serving at St. Julia's Church, entered the priesthood following a 29-year marriage and a previous professional career.

Why it matters

His path to the priesthood reflects the unique mission of the Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, which specializes in training older, second-career candidates for ordination. This case highlights how the church integrates men with significant life experience, including family roles, into religious leadership.

Giris Azize, who holds a 1984 biology degree and a 1995 master's in computer management, is a father of four. He completed his religious formation at the Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston following the annulment of his 29-year marriage.

The players

Giris Azize

He is a Catholic priest who transitioned to the clergy at age 64 after a career in management and a 29-year marriage.

Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary

This educational institution located in Weston, Massachusetts, focuses specifically on the formation of men who pursue the priesthood as a second vocation later in life.

St. Julia's Church

This is the local parish in Weston where Azize currently serves as a parochial pastor.

Cathedral of the Holy Cross

It is the seat of the Archbishop of Boston and served as the site for the May 2026 ordination ceremony.

The details

Azize successfully balanced his earlier professional life with his later vocational calling, eventually joining the clergy after navigating the church's requirements for candidates with former marital histories. He currently serves as a parochial pastor at St. Julia's Church, transitioning his skills from a background in science and management to his new religious role.

1984: Azize earned his degree in biology.
1995: Azize received his master's degree in computer management.
May 16, 2026: Giris Azize was ordained as a priest at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross.

Culture Shift

The transition to the priesthood for older professionals reflects a shift toward addressing clergy shortages by tapping into the vocational experiences of second-career candidates. This trend contrasts with traditional models that favor early-adulthood entry, potentially changing the face of parish leadership.

Residents of St. Julia's Church in Weston will experience a change in their parish leadership following the appointment of a new pastor. The inclusion of a career professional into the clergy may shift how the parish manages its administrative and communal outreach programs.

The takeaway

The journey of Giris Azize shows that life experience, including marriage and raising children, can serve as a foundation for a future in religious ministry. Readers considering career changes may find value in how professional expertise can transition into meaningful service roles later in life.