Finland is one of the most homogenous nations in Europe in the context of religion: Some 84 per cent of the population belong to the Evangelical Lutheran Church and about two per cent belong to other Christian churches or communities. 13.5 per cent of the population are not registered with any religious denomination. The Orthodox Church in Finland has just under 60,000 members, i.e. 1.1 per cent of the population. Freedom of religion became guaranteed in Finland in 1923.
Finnish religiousness has been aptly described as "belonging without attending," as most Finns do not participate in organized church ceremonies as regularly as others. The role of the church in Finnish life is reflected more in annual traditions, such as Christmas and Easter, and also during important family milestones including baptisms, confirmations, marriages, and funerals.
Christianity arrived in Finland in the 13th century from both the east and the west. Finland was then part of the Swedish realm and King Gustavus Vasa of Sweden, who reigned during the 16th century, decided to implement the Reformation in his kingdom, as a result of which the property of the Catholic Church in Finland was confiscated and the Lutheran Church was established as the national church.
For a long time, the Church oversaw important functions of society, such as local administration and education, while the State had a part in such matters as the administration, funding and regulation of the Church. Later on, the Lutheran Church was disestablished, but the Evangelical Lutheran and Orthodox churches still retain their special position as the national churches. Members of the two churches pay a
membership fee in the form of church tax of around 1-2.25 per cent, depending on the parish, which is collected in conjunction with income tax. In addition, the churches receive a small share of corporate tax paid by companies, corporations and other similar entities. This money is used to support social development managed by the Church, such activities as child and youth work, social work, plus the maintenance of graveyards, parish registers and historical buildings.
Read more on the religion in Finland - see the Virtual Finland website on politics and society and choose topics of your interest under the theme religion.
