Make Your Voice Heard in the Parish Elections 2026 for the Church in Espoo

The Church Needs the Expertise of its Members 

“The Church needs the skills and expertise of its members in order to function both now and in the future. Parishes value the fact that elected representatives give their time and bring their knowledge for the benefit of the community,” says Mirja Miettinen, Coordinator of the Espoo Parish Elections. 

In the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland’s Parish Elections, individuals have an opportunity to influence the future of their own parish and often also their local residential area. By voting or standing as a candidate, one supports activities that reflect their own values. The elected representatives form an important strategic support group for the parish or for the parish union leadership. 

“You can stand as a candidate if you have been confirmed and are a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church who will turn 18 by the election day on 15 November. Candidate registration closes on 15 September,” Miettinen reminds. 

“If you are not currently a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church but are interested in becoming a candidate in the parish elections, join the Church in good time.  Your  membership  must  be  confirmed  on  15  September.” 

You can contact your own parish, any of their employee or the Vicar to find out about membership in Espoo. You can also read more about the membership here. 

The parish elections are held every four years in November. The next elections are held on 15 November 2026. 

What Do Elected Representatives Do? 

Elected representatives chosen in the elections represent the members of the parish. They work in cooperation with the parish vicar and other employees. 

Parish elections are local elections that govern decision-making in your parish: how the tax money from parishioners will be allocated, what activities will be offered, who will receive assistance, and where and how. Representatives can influence also who are nominated as lay members to the General Synod. 

All the Evangelical Lutheran parishes in Espoo belong to the Espoo Parish Union. That means that two elections will be held. In one election, representatives are elected to the Parish Board, the executive body of the parish, and, in the other, to the Joint Church Council, the executive body of the Parish Union. Separate candidate lists are compiled for both elections, and candidates can choose to run in either one or both elections. 

Who Can Stand for Election? 

Candidates must be confirmed members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland that have turned 18 on, or before the election day. Candidates have to give their written consent to stand for election. 

If you would like to stand for election, contact your parish for more information. 

Who Can Vote? 

You can vote if you are a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and are 16 years old on, or before the election day 15 November 2026. Confirmation preparation or confirmation are not required; Church membership is enough.