Who is the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and what are its ministries?
The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland (ELCF), a member of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), is made up of just over 4.5 million members. The ELCF is organized in an episcopal-synodical basis and its clergy have apostolic succession. It has eight regional dioceses and one non-geographical Swedish-speaking diocese based in Porvoo, east of Helsinki. The ELCF approved the ordination of women in 1986, and the first woman was ordained in 1988. The church’s pastors are educated in the country’s two theological faculties, in the University of Helsinki and the Swedish University in Turku. Gathering together for worship is at the heart of the ELCF’s ministry. During the week, many people engage in small group Bible study, discussion and prayer. According to the ELCF, “Sunday services in Finland are not such social gatherings as in many other countries, so it is easier to get to know other people in activities and meetings that are held on weekdays and evenings.” Many parishes offer a wid
