The Roman Catholic Diocese of Tallinn will mark the 100th birth anniversary of Catholic priest, translator, theologian and advocate for Estonia’s culture and spiritual life, Father Vello Salo, on November 5 at the Pirita Convent.
Father Vello Salo lived through war, exile and a national rebirth. Ordained a Catholic priest abroad, he devoted his life to the spiritual and cultural renewal of Estonia, tirelessly fostering dialogue between faith and national identity. His dedicated work as a translator of Sacred Scripture and literature, as a publisher at Estonia Publishing House, as chaplain of the Pirita Convent, as chair of the Commission on the Crimes of Occupations and in many other important roles has left an indelible mark on the nation’s spiritual landscape.
Bishop of Tallinn Philippe Jourdan recalls that ‘Father Vello Salo’s love for Estonia and the Gospel went hand in hand – he showed us that to believe also means to serve one’s people with wisdom, humility and heart.’
The memorial day begins at 14:30 with a prayer for the deceased and the lighting of candles at Father Vello Salo’s grave at Metsakalmistu, followed at 16:00 by a Holy Mass at the Pirita Convent celebrated by Bishop Philippe Jourdan of Tallinn. After the Mass, in the chapel of the Pirita Convent, Father Vello will be remembered by his friends and collaborators, followed by a gathering.
The memorial day is supported by the Grand Priory of the Order of Malta in Estonia.