Stand as a candidate
Why run as a candidate?
As an elected representative of the parish, you will be involved in:
- Deciding how funds are used
- Participating in staff recruitment decisions
- Shaping the public image of the church
- Sharing your expertise
- Selecting representatives for the Church Assembly and the Diocesan Council
Who can stand as a candidate?
You can run as a candidate if you are over 18, a member of the church, and have received confirmation. If you are not a member or have not been confirmed but wish to run, contact a parish employee or the vicar’s office, and you will be guided on how to proceed.
Which parish do I belong to?
Your parish is determined based on your home address. You can check which parish you belong to using your address here (in finnish).
Steps into the parish elections
What is important to you?
Think about the values you want to promote as a decision-maker. Familiarize yourself with the current candidate lists, i.e., the groups nominating candidates.
Candidate lists (in finnish)
Contact a candidate list or start your own
If you find an existing candidate list that suits you, get in touch with the list’s contact person. You can also start your own electoral association to nominate candidates for the parish elections.
Start your election campaign
Once you have decided to run, begin your campaign. Share your candidacy on social media, create leaflets explaining the issues you care about, and spread the word about your candidacy. Complete the online election tool around late September to early October.
Mark your calendar
Candidate numbers will be announced on October 1. Advance voting will take place from November 3–7. The main election day is Sunday, November 15.
Your term as an elected representative begins alkaa
If you are elected, your term as an elected representative starts on January 1, 2027. You will receive more information after the election results are confirmed.