Lutheranism in Finland

Prayer has been at the heart of many people's lives in Finland through the centuries, but – and this is a very Finnish characteristic – faith is a largely private matter. Don't be surprised to see Finns sitting alone in a quiet corner of the church during services.

Finnish spirituality has been much influenced by a rural life that was – until quite recently – the norm. Even today, many Finns seek God in nature and the wilderness: in a forest, by a lake or at the seashore.

Hymns and other spiritual songs have always held an important place in the lives of the Finnish faithful: expect to sing a lot if you go to a Finnish service!