Welcome to a pilgrimage of hearts to Valamo. During the course, we will explore the world of animals and their significance in creation. We will meet animal friends and share our experiences and memories of beloved pets. What all can we learn from them? We will discuss animal theology, ecology, and animal rights, which are emerging as a human rights-like issue globally. We will walk in nature, wagging our tails and sensing new scents. Many saints have lived in close interaction with animals. We will touch upon their personal histories through iconography and literature. You can attend the course with or without a pet, if the theme is otherwise pleasing. Please note that pet-friendly rooms are available only in limited numbers; the pet supplement for the room is included in the price of this course.
Monday, August 31
12 Course opening, introduction, and treat time for pets
12:30 Guided outdoor tour of the monastery grounds
14 Accommodation and lunch at Restaurant Trapesa
15-16 Creation as God's gift – animal and human together on the path to salvation – Archimandrite Andreas and dog Tyty from Lintula Monastery
16:15 Akathist of Thanksgiving at Saint Nicholas' chapel on the shore of Juojärvi
17 Life and wisdom of hens – guided visit to Valamo Monastery garden – Obedience Brother Mattias
18 Ninth Hour. Vespers. Small Compline and Rule of Prayer.
19:30 Supper
Tuesday, September 1. Beginning of the Ecclesiastical Year and Day of Prayer for Creation Blessed by the Ecumenical Patriarch
6 Midnight Office and Matins. Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom.
7:30-10:00 Breakfast at Restaurant Trapesa
9 DVM, specialist veterinarian in small animal diseases, Tytti Harjuhahto and dog Nasti talk about the healthcare of elderly dogs and cats, and answer participants' questions
11 Lunch at Restaurant Trapesa
12 Dog as an assistant - Archpriest Sergius Colliander and assistance dog Karma
13 What flashed among the blueberry bushes? – a sensory walk in silence in the monastery forest
14 Pet pampering break and snack time
15 Art moment - textile artist Riitta Turunen and dog Milli
16 Thematic book tips
17 Blessing of pets – Hieromonk Rafael
18 Ninth Hour. Vespers. Small Compline and Rule of Prayer.
19:30 Supper
Wednesday, September 2
6 Midnight Office and Matins. First Hour.
7:30-10:00 Breakfast at Restaurant Trapesa
9 Scents on the Prayer Path
10:30 Snakes as friends - Alina Kallio, who worked as an animal keeper at Korkeasaari, introduces participants to the world of her snakes
11:30 Course closing lunch at Restaurant Trapesa
12 Room checkout
Dogs attending the course can, if they wish, enjoy a free massage as practice clients for dog massage student Tauno Koriala. Massage times are arranged separately.
