The life of archbishop Paul (Olmari) of Finland

The problem of educating learned monks as the most opportune cadre to occupy administrative positions in the Church has always been acute for the Finnish Archdiocese. First, of course, this was needed for filing episcopal vacancies; second, learned monks were viewed as potential missionaries and traveling clergy, who would be able to fill in for parish priests and carry out their duties. Te governing body of the Finnish Orthodox Church - the Ecclesiastic Administration - set a new goal in the 1920’s and 1930’s to form a new generation of clergy and monastics, who would be able to carry out the pastoral duties needed for the formation of a national Finnish Church. One of the most prominent representatives of this generation of clergy is Paul (Olmari), the future Archbishop of Karelia and All Finland