ristimiä

Ristimä is a Finnish term referring to a traditional christening or baptism ceremony. It is a significant cultural and religious event in Finland, marking the formal introduction of a child into the Christian faith. The ceremony typically takes place in a Lutheran church, as Lutheranism is the dominant Christian denomination in Finland.

The ristimä ceremony involves the baptism of the infant by a pastor, who usually sprinkles holy water on the child's head. During the service, the child is given a Christian name, which is often a combination of family names or names with religious significance. Godparents, known as "kummit," play a crucial role in the ceremony, pledging to support the child's upbringing in faith and life. They often present gifts to the child.

Following the religious service, it is customary to hold a celebratory gathering, often called a "ristiäiskahvit" or christening coffee. This is a social event where family and friends come together to celebrate the child's baptism. Special foods and cakes are typically served. The ristimä tradition carries strong cultural weight, emphasizing family, community, and religious heritage. While the religious aspect is central, the social and celebratory elements are equally important for many Finnish families.