Everyone can face times when life feels difficult or problems become too much to manage alone. You may be worried about money, struggling with a relationship, facing a personal crisis or simply needing someone to talk to.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland offers counselling and practical support through local parishes. You can talk with a pastor or a diaconal worker about your situation and explore what kind of help might be available.
Counselling and consultations with parish pastors and diaconal workers are free of charge and confidential. You do not need to be a member of the Church to seek help.
Sometimes it helps to talk through a difficult situation with someone who will listen without judging you. Parish workers can offer emotional support and help you consider your options when you are facing challenges in your life.
You can talk about personal concerns, family matters, loneliness, grief, uncertainty or other issues that are affecting your wellbeing. You do not need to be religious to ask for support.
Pastors can offer spiritual support and pastoral care if you wish to discuss questions about faith, life or meaning. You can also talk with a diaconal worker about your situation and the practical challenges you may be facing.
If you are experiencing financial difficulties, a diaconal worker can help you look at your overall situation and consider possible ways forward.
Depending on your circumstances and what your local parish offers, support may include:
The Church’s support is intended to help people in difficult situations and complement other forms of social support. The assistance available varies between parishes, so contact your local parish to discuss your needs.
Relationships can be affected by disagreements, major life changes, parenting challenges or other pressures. Family and relationship counselling offers an opportunity to discuss these issues and look for ways forward.
Many parishes provide family counselling. If this service is not available in your local parish, you may be referred to another provider. Contact your parish to find out what services are available and how to make an appointment.
Parish workers can also help you find support for other difficult situations, including addiction-related concerns, loneliness or major changes in life.
You do not have to know exactly what kind of help you need before getting in touch. A parish worker can listen to your situation and help you identify possible sources of support. If your needs are better addressed by another service, they may be able to guide you towards it.
Start by contacting your local Evangelical Lutheran parish and asking to speak with a pastor or a diaconal worker. Most parishes have staff who speak English, although the services available and the languages offered vary.
If you are new to Finland, finding your way around the support services can sometimes be difficult. You can explain your situation to a parish worker and ask what kind of help may be available to you.
For confidential counselling or practical support, you do not need to have all the answers. Getting in touch is a good first step.