Herättäjät

Herättäjät, meaning "Awakeners," is a term used in Finnish religious history to refer to a pietistic revival movement that gained prominence in the 19th century. This movement emerged within the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and emphasized a personal, emotional, and experiential relationship with God.

Key figures associated with the Herättäjät movement include Lars Levi Laestadius and Paavo Ruotsalainen. Laestadius, a Sami pastor and botanist, played a significant role in spreading the movement's message, particularly in northern Finland and among Sami communities. Ruotsalainen, a farmer from Eastern Finland, was another influential preacher whose sermons often focused on repentance and the need for spiritual awakening.

The Herättäjät movement stressed the importance of God's grace, the concept of "living faith," and the necessity of internal conviction over outward religious observance alone. They often gathered in informal settings, such as homes and fields, for prayer meetings and sermons, which were characterized by their fervent and emotional delivery. The movement also advocated for a simpler lifestyle and a strong moral code.

While initially met with some resistance from the established church hierarchy, the Herättäjät movement gradually gained widespread acceptance and deeply influenced Finnish religious life and culture. Its legacy continues to be felt today, with organizations like the Herättäjä-yhdistys (Herättäjät Association) still active in promoting Christian fellowship and spiritual growth. The movement's emphasis on personal faith and community remains a defining aspect of Finnish pietism.