"Magic isn't as common in Jarzon as our neighbors," Melisan confessed. "The only place to learn it is in the priesthood, like myself, or as a lay healer. It's unfortunate, but... the country was founded after a time when the entire continent was being used as shock troops and experimental subjects by the Sorcerer-Kings. Arcana -- magic -- is something that needs control."
Granted, Melisan could think of plenty of people who entered the priesthood not out of any calling to serve, but because it was how you gained power in Jarzon. If he was being strictly honest, that would include himself, even if he rationalized it as being in a position to help more people.