In Finland, confirmation is an important milestone in many young people’s lives. It is a time to learn about Christianity, explore questions about life and faith, and celebrate with family and friends.
In the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, confirmation usually follows a period of learning called confirmation school. Most young people attend confirmation school in the year they turn 15. Adults can also take part in confirmation preparation.
For many families, confirmation is both a Christian ceremony and a cherished tradition marking a young person’s transition towards adulthood.
Confirmation is a Christian ceremony connected to Baptism. During the service, participants confess the Christian faith, and the congregation prays for them and gives them a blessing.
Confirmation does not replace Baptism. It offers an opportunity to reflect on the faith into which a person has been baptised and to affirm that faith as their own.
In Finland, confirmation is often celebrated with family and friends. The day may include a church service, a family gathering and a festive meal.
Confirmation school, known in Finnish as rippikoulu, is a period of learning, discussion and shared activities. Participants explore the Bible, the Christian faith and questions about life, relationships and the world around them.
Many young people attend confirmation school at a camp, spending several days together with other participants and their leaders. Day programmes and other arrangements are also available.
Confirmation school is an opportunity to ask questions and explore different perspectives. Participants do not need to have all the answers about faith when they begin.
Most young people attend confirmation school at around the age of 15. Adults can also participate if they wish to learn more about Christianity or take a step towards joining the Church.
Confirmation is normally for people who have been baptised. Those who have not been baptised can attend confirmation school and, if they wish to become members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and their local parish, prepare for Baptism as part of the process.
If you have been baptised in another Christian church, your local parish can advise you on how your baptism relates to joining the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland.
Confirmation has practical significance as well as spiritual meaning. In the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, confirmation enables a church member to receive Holy Communion independently and to serve as a godparent, provided the other requirements are met.
Confirmation school is organised by local parishes, which can explain the available options, registration and practical arrangements.
If you would like to arrange confirmation school for a young person or are interested in confirmation as an adult, contact your local Evangelical Lutheran parish. You can ask questions and explore the options before making a decision.