Kirkonlämmittäjä: Romaani

''Kirkonlämmittäjä: Romaani'' by Arvi Järventaus is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Janne Flykt, a boy from the outskirts of town who is affectionately nicknamed ''Kirkko-Janne.'' While Janne is not particularly pious, he frequents the cathedral with his grandmother and partakes in playful, mischievous activities with his friends, often involving games of chance against the church wall. The opening of the novel introduces Janne Flykt and his friends as they engage in a game of ''seinäraha,'' hitting coins against the cathedral wall. This scene captures their carefree innocence and playful banter, exemplified by the boys' excitement and Janne's eventual encounter with the bishop, who surprisingly encourages their playful gambling. As a result, they feel a sense of empowerment, thinking they have divine approval for their activities. The beginning establishes a lighthearted tone combined with hints of deeper reflections on faith, community, and the nature of youth.