Our Purpose

Saint Herman’s Orthodox Theological Seminary is a sacred place to train future readers, subdeacons, deacons, and priests to serve the God-protected Diocese of Sitka and Alaska and her diverse flock. With deep and sincere appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of our Russian and indigenous history as well as a full awareness of the challenges of contemporary Alaskan society, the seminary seeks to form men so that they may be faithful guardians of Orthodox tradition and zealous proclaimers of the Gospel of Christ.

The seminary and her seminarians are especially inspired by the ascetic example of Saint Herman the Wonderworker, the linguistic missionary efforts of Saint Innokenty of Alaska, and the cultural sensitivity of Saint Yakov [Netsvetov] of Alaska. The seminary provides seminarians with the tools to face the challenges of materialism, addiction, and abuse, with the full conviction that with God, all things are possible.

Those interested in continuing in the footsteps of our Russian and indigenous Saints are invited to come to Saint Herman’s, to learn about the one faith delivered by the saints, and to go forth to serve those who have been faithfully awaiting the day when a priest would come to their village and offer them, the gift of all gifts, communion with our Lord Jesus Christ.