Merkinointi

Merkinointi is a traditional ecclesiastical practice rooted in medieval Finland. It involves the ritual burning of sacred images and objects, primarily icons and relics, which were deemed deemed to have served their purpose in a church. This practice occurred when a church was decommissioned, renovated, or when new liturgical objects were introduced.

Merkinointi took place under the direction of the Vicar or Clergyman. Objects were carefully selected and thoroughly examined before being subjected to a controlled fire. They were burned to demonstrate the church's demotion and to emphasize the significance of the liturgical changes. The ashes were then either scattered or retained, often wrapped in linen, and placed in a so-called Merkin introduction, or relic chest.

Historians suggest that the roots of merkinointi date back to the time of the weaving or icon painting of church decorations, which were held in high regard by the faithful. As Christianity evolved and new rituals and traditions took hold, merkinointi emerged as a necessary, albeit understandable, way to ensure the eradication of old, redundant objects and stress the freshness of the new.

Some speculate that the practice of merkinointi is linked to Finnish conservation, with burnt goods becoming valued relics not just of the old time but typically symbolic items again. Despite the largely inexplicable logic behind these visceral beliefs it still remains widely practiced to this very day.