Seurakontakti

Seurakontakti is a Finnish term that translates to "parish contact" or "congregation contact." It refers to the official or informal relationship and communication between a member of a Lutheran or Evangelical Lutheran parish in Finland and the parish itself. This can encompass a wide range of interactions, from participating in church services and events to receiving pastoral care and engaging with parish administration.

The concept of seurakontakti is rooted in the structure of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, which has a parish-based organization. Membership in a parish typically involves residing within its geographical boundaries or choosing to be a member of a specific parish. Seurakontakti is therefore the practical manifestation of this membership, outlining how individuals are connected to their local church community.

Examples of seurakontakti include attending Sunday mass, participating in confirmation classes, receiving communion, being married or having a child baptized by a parish minister, or seeking counsel from a pastor. It also involves the parish maintaining records of its members and communicating information about its activities through newsletters, websites, or direct mail. The nature and depth of seurakontakti can vary significantly from person to person, depending on their level of engagement and involvement with the church.