kirkkovaltuusto

Kirkkovaltuusto is the elected local governing body of a parish (seurakunta) within the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. It represents the parish members in decision-making between general congregational meetings and is responsible for planning, supervising, and guiding the parish’s activities and finances.

Members are elected in kirkkovaalit, the church elections held for a fixed term, typically four years. The council is usually chaired by a puheenjohtaja and may form committees to handle specific areas such as finances, property, worship arrangements, youth work, and social missions. The size of the council varies depending on the parish and its statutes.

Key responsibilities of the kirkkovaltuusto include approving the annual budget and long-term financial planning, supervising the parish administration, and overseeing the maintenance and use of church buildings and other properties. It also guides the parish’s strategic priorities and service offerings, including worship, education, and outreach programs, in line with the church’s mission and values.

The kirkkovaltuusto operates within the ecclesiastical framework of the diocese and the wider church administration. It is expected to collaborate with the diocese, follow church laws and regulations, and implement diocesan guidance at the local level. The parish priest (kirkkoherran) leads the parish’s daily operations and works in cooperation with the council, which exercises oversight and supports the parish administration.