The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland
Parish elections form the basis of Church democracy
In parish elections, parish members elect the representatives who hold the highest power in parishes. Approximately 10 000 candidates will be elected for the four-year period 1011-2014. The number of candidates in the elections is an estimated 30 000.
Parish elections are local elections, organised every four years. Members of the parish board (kirkkovaltuusto in Finnish) are elected in these elections. In parishes belonging to a parish union (seurakuntayhtymä), the elected become members of a parish council (seurakuntaneuvosto) or a joint parish board (yhteinen kirkkovaltuusto).
The aim is to elect people of all ages, in different life situations, representing different fields, who bring their experience and vision to the use of the parish. The increase of young adults among the elected is especially hoped for.
Next election day for parish elections is November 14th
Members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church who are 16 years old by November 11th 2010 have a right to vote in the parish elections. Confirmation class or confirmation are not required of the voter, Church membership is sufficient. The voter must be member of the Church by October 15th 2010.
The nationwide election day for parish elections is on Fathers' Day, November 14th 2010. In some parishes, it is possible to vote also on November 15th 2010. Parishes will provide the polling stations, of which detailed information will be available on this website during the autumn 2010.
The voting hours will be decided upon by the parish. On Sunday November 14th, polling stations open after the service and close at 8pm. Opening hours on Monday November 15th will be announced by the parish. Voting ends at 6pm.
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Parish elections 2010
More information of the parish elections 2010 in Finnish.
