From 1 June, more than 50 people can attend church services, as long as safety instructions are followed

The bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland have issued more specific instructions on how many people can attend worship and other church services.

As of 1 June 2020, more than 50 people can attend services and ceremonies held at church, such as weddings, christenings and funerals. This is possible provided that the events follow the instructions issued by the authorities on how to organise public events in a safe manner. The maximum number of participants is 500 people, but the number of participants must be adjusted to the venue so that a safe distance of one to two metres can be maintained.

Ceremonies held after the service, such as christening ceremonies, wedding celebrations and memorial services, as well as church services held at home or in other private venues count as private gatherings. This means these gatherings are subject to the Government’s 50-person limit.

The bishops detailed their instructions to parishes based on the government resolution of 6 May. The dioceses will issue more specific instructions, for example on measures to be taken in celebrating the Eucharist.

Further information: Petri Merenlahti, special advisor to the Archbishop, tel. +358 40 1425 299