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Become a member

Can I join the Church?

Yes, you are welcome! The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland is open to everyone, no matter where you come from or what church you belonged to before.

You can come to our services and events even if you belong to another church. You do not need to leave your old church to visit us.

Already a Christian?

If you are a Christian and have already been baptised, you can join our Church. You do not need to be baptised again.

If you are a member of one of these churches, you only need to make a simple written request to join:

If you belong to another Christian church, you can also join by applying at your local parish. All applications are private. The parish will help you with the process.

Please note: You cannot be a member of two churches at the same time – unless the other church is an Anglican Church of the Porvoo Communion.

Not baptised?

If you are not baptised and want to become a Christian, please contact your local parish. They will help you prepare for baptism. You must take adult confirmation classes before being baptised.

Baptism is the start of Christian life. First you become a Christian through baptism – after that, you can become a Church member.

Why become a Church member?

We support you in the important moments of your life.

  • Baptism for your child

  • Marriage ceremony

  • Comfort and help when someone dies

You can also:

  • Take part in Church services and find peace in a busy life

  • Volunteer and help others

  • Join music groups and choirs

  • Be buried in the local Church cemetery (even if you are not a member)

Church and community

The Church works a lot with children and young people. Parishes organise clubs, camps, and events. Ask your local parish how to join.

The Church also helps people who face difficult times – for example, with money problems or personal struggles.

Church buildings and art are an important part of Finnish culture. Many churches are the most loved buildings in their towns.

A child is drawing with crayons on a white paper.

More about membership

 

    • There are about 3,5 million members in the Church.

 

    • Most Finnish people join as babies through baptism.

 

 

    • If you move abroad, you stay a member but don’t need to pay church tax.

 

You become a member of the parish in the area where you live.

If you are not a Finnish citizen but live in Finland, you are welcome to join right away.

If you do not have Finnish citizenship or residence, you can join after joining parish activities for at least 3 months.