Life can bring situations when we need someone to talk to. Illness, loss, uncertainty and difficult changes can raise questions about our lives, relationships, beliefs and future. Sometimes it helps simply to have someone who listens.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland offers pastoral care to people in different life situations. You can talk with a pastor or another parish worker about what is on your mind, whether your concerns are connected to faith, a personal crisis or everyday life.
Pastoral care is based on listening, respect and confidentiality. You do not need to be a member of the Church or know what you believe to seek support.
Pastoral care offers an opportunity to talk about matters that are important to you. You may want to discuss a difficult situation, a loss, questions about the meaning of life or matters of faith. You do not have to find the right words or know what you want to say in advance.
Pastors and other trained parish workers are available for personal conversations. The discussions are confidential, and pastoral care provided by the parish is free of charge.
You can contact your local parish to ask about pastoral care or arrange a conversation. Many parishes also have staff who speak English.
Illness can affect many aspects of life, both for the person who is ill and for their loved ones. It can bring uncertainty, worry and questions about the future.
Hospital chaplains provide support to patients and their loved ones in hospitals and other healthcare settings. They are available to listen and talk about whatever matters to the person seeking support, including fears, relationships, faith and questions about life and death.
You can ask hospital staff how to contact a chaplain. You can also find contact details on the hospital’s website. Hospital chaplains respect each person’s beliefs and wishes. You do not have to be a Christian to talk with them.
Parish workers may also visit people who are ill at home or living in care institutions. Contact your local parish to ask what support is available.
Illness and difficult life situations can also affect family members and friends. If someone close to you is seriously ill, you may have worries or need space to talk about your own feelings.
Pastoral care is available to loved ones as well as to the person who is ill. You can contact a hospital chaplain or your local parish to ask about support.
Some parishes also offer practical support to people who are ill or have difficulty managing everyday tasks. Depending on the parish, this may include visits, companionship or help with errands.
Contact your local parish to find out what kind of support is available in your area.
If you would like to talk with someone, contact your local Evangelical Lutheran parish. A pastor or another parish worker can help you find the right kind of support.
If you are in hospital, ask a member of staff how to contact the hospital chaplain.
You do not need to have a particular faith or attend church regularly to get in touch. You can simply start by telling someone what is on your mind.