Kasteissa

Kasteissa is a Finnish term that broadly refers to the act of baptism. In the context of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, which is the predominant Christian denomination in the country, kasteissa is a significant sacrament. It is typically performed on infants, though adult baptisms also occur. The ceremony is a public declaration of faith and a welcoming into the Christian community.

The baptismal service usually takes place during a regular church service, although private ceremonies can also be arranged. It involves the pouring of water over the individual's head while reciting specific prayers and vows. Parents and godparents play a crucial role, promising to raise the child in the Christian faith. Following the baptism, the child is often given a baptismal certificate.

Kasteissa holds cultural as well as religious importance in Finland. Historically, it has been a rite of passage and a marker of belonging to the community. While church attendance has seen a decline in recent decades, baptism remains a widely practiced tradition, often carried out even by those who are not actively religious, as a way to honor family traditions and connect with their heritage. The church registers baptisms, which historically served as a form of civil registration.