seurakuntaneuvosto

Seurakuntaneuvosto is a central administrative body within Lutheran parishes in Finland. It is elected by the parish congregation and is responsible for the practical management of the parish's affairs. The seurakuntaneuvosto oversees the parish's finances, property, and personnel, and it makes decisions on matters concerning the parish's activities, such as organizing services, pastoral care, and social work.

The composition and specific responsibilities of a seurakuntaneuvosto are defined by Finnish church law and the individual parish's statutes. Typically, its members are laypeople from the congregation, though clergy may also participate in a non-voting capacity. The seurakuntaneuvosto meets regularly to discuss and decide on matters presented to it, often in cooperation with the parish priest and other church officials. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that the parish operates efficiently and effectively in serving its members and the wider community. The seurakuntaneuvosto is accountable to the parish congregation and ultimately to the diocesan chapter and the church leadership.