Our Church. A community in search of unity. A community in search of unity. ISBN (bound) ISBN (PDF) Our Church

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1 Our Church A community in search of unity The ecumenical strategy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland until the year 2015 is a strategy approved by the Church Council for International Relations on January 26th, It is intended as an aid to the ecumenical activities and strategic planning of - the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church, - its parishes, - dioceses and - church organizations. The basic outline of the principles, goals and activities set out therein is intended to serve the aforementioned bodies own strategies. Even those parishes that do not have opportunities in practice to meet members of other churches and practise ecumenical co-operation in their locality can implement the ecumenical strategy by reinforcing the Lutheran identity and ecumenical openness of their parishes. Feedback on this strategy can be sent to the Church Department for International Relations at P.O. Box 185, FI Helsinki, Finland or by at kuo@evl.fi or by fax ISBN (bound) ISBN (PDF) Our Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Church Council, Department for International Relations P. O. Box 185, Satamakatu 11 A, FI Helsinki, Finland kuo@evl.fi A community in search of unity The ecumenical strategy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland until the year 2015

2 Our Church A community in search of unity Finepress Oy Helsinki 2010 English translation: Michael Cox Layout: Mikko Huotari The ecumenical strategy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland until the year 2015 ISBN (bound) ISBN (PDF) Approved by the Church Council for International Relations on January 26th, 2009 Our Church a community in search of unity

3 Table of Contents Preface 6 Mission 12 Vision 12 Values 13 Aims 14 I Our aim is the visible unity of the Church 16 II We care for the weak and shoulder global responsibility 20 III We promote the ecumenical dimension in the life of the church and its members 28 IV We strengthen the significance of church membership in the world and in Finland 34 V We communicate a message and engage in open discussion 38 VI We will renew the structures of our ecumenical activities 44 4 Our Church a community in search of unity 5

4 When drawing up this strategy the working group has made use of the description of the working environment as background material (in Finnish at ekumeeninenstrategia). The church s ecumenical strategy is intended as an aid to the ecumenical activities and strategic planning of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church, its parishes, dioceses and church organizations. The basic outline of the principles, goals and activities set out therein is intended to serve the aforementioned bodies own strategies. Even those parishes that do not have opportunities in practice to meet members of other churches and practise ecumenical co-operation in their locality can implement the ecumenical strategy by reinforcing the Lutheran identity and ecumenical openness of their parishes. Preface On December 17th, 2007 the Church Council for International Relations (CCIR) set up a working group consisting of Bishop Eero Huovinen (chairman), Reverend, Executive Director Risto Cantell, Rural Dean Jaana Marjanen, Programme Director Hanna Ojanen, Bishop Simo Peura, Programme Coordinator Aaro Rytkönen and Executive Secretary Eila Leppämäki (secretary) to draw up an ecumenical strategy for the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church. In a meeting in August 2008 the CCIR studied the first draft produced by the working group and returned it for further consideration. The working group requested comments on the draft through the Internet, the Communications Centre of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and the church media. CCIR s comments and feedback from the public were taken into account in the second draft, which the CCIR considered in December After discussing principles, the draft strategy was returned for further consideration. Our Church a community in search of unity. The ecumenical strategy of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland until the year 2015, was approved at a meeting of the council on January 26th, Ecumenism In this strategy the word ecumenism means efforts towards unity on the part of churches and Christians, i.e. deeds, actions and attitudes which further Christian unity throughout the world. Co-operation between churches and Christians has both a biblical and a practical basis. One of the most important passages of the New Testament referring to Christian unity is the prayer of Jesus that believers should be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you (Jn. 17:21). Justification for ecumenism is also found in Ephesians: There is one body and one Spirit just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all (Eph. 4: 4-6). Efforts towards Christian and church unity concern both doctrinal matters and practical actions. The objective of doctrinal discussions is to find close fellowship with other churches and other Christians. The objective is unanimity or sufficient agreement which makes it possible to celebrate the eucharist together. This objective has been achieved in the Porvoo church community, in 6 Our Church a community in search of unity 7

5 which the Anglican churches of Great Britain and Ireland and the Nordic and Baltic Lutheran churches, signatories to the Porvoo Declaration, are in eucharistic commu nion. No such progress has yet been made with many other churches. Practical co-operation between churches is also possible where there is not yet perhaps never will be full agreement on central issues of Christian doctrine. The churches must work together in preaching the gospel, in Christian service (diaconia) and on issues of social justice. Christians can also work together for a juster world with people of other faiths. In ecumenism we need both doctrinal and practical cooperation. By working together churches and Christians witness to their common faith. In this way our common faith takes on visible form. The objective of ecumenism is the visible unity of Christ s church and Christian fellowship. Inter-faith dialogue aims at increasing knowledge of and respect for other religions and increasing opportunities for practical co-operation. The objective is to make possible and improve inter-faith peace, tolerance and co-operation. Inter-faith dialogue and ecumenism differ from each other in essence and in their goals, but from the church s point of view both are necessary. Besides ecumenism, inter-faith dialogue is an important part of the church s domestic and international activity. Therefore it is briefly treated in this strategy. On January 22nd, 2008 the Church Council approved the church strategy: Our Church a participatory community. Strategy of the Finnish Lutheran Church until This church strategy report deals broadly with the church s altered working environment and with global changes. The church s ecumenical strategy takes into account the most important factors of change in the working environment set out in the church s strategy report. In addition, it also briefly deals with other significant factors affecting the church s ecumenical activities that are not mentioned in the church s strategy report. The Our Church strategy states that mutual caring is a visible sign of fellowship. The early Christians were known for caring for each other. Similarly, it states that the church has its local manifestation and global dimensions. The ecumenical strategy stresses that the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church belongs to the universal Church of Christ. Relations with other churches, both in Finland and abroad, are evaluated from this angle. According to the Our Church strategy, the task of the church is to call people to fellowship with our gracious God, to introduce durable and lasting principles to life, and to provide care for our neighbour and God s creation. This is also the basic starting-point of the church s ecumenical strategy - Our Church a community in search of unity. The church s Our Church strategy and its ecumenical strategy In this strategy ecumenism means efforts towards church and Christian unity, that is, deeds, actions and attitudes that promote Christian fellowship throughout the world. 8 Our Church a community in search of unity 9

6 The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Ecumenical strategy 10 Our Church a community in search of unity 11

7 Mission Our ecumenical task is to pray and work so that Christians and the Christian churches might be of one mind in faith, celebrate communion together, serve other people and witness to Christ. Vision The ecumenical activities of our church are fellowship, witness and service. Church members are aware of belonging to the universal Church of Christ and regard ecumenism as an essential part of the Christian faith. The church s doctrinal dialogues and the everyday activities of church members are mutually supportive. Church members consider global responsibility for their neighbour and the whole of creation to be an essential part of the Christian life. Values Reverence for the holy We regard faith in the Triune God as the foundation of the unity of the Church. We acknowledge the uniqueness of the person and saving work of Jesus. We seek Christian unity, obligated by the prayer of Jesus (Jn. 17:21). We consider all people and the whole world to be created by God. We recognise the yearning for holiness in other religions. Truthfulness We seek unanimity in faith and love. Obedient to the will of Christ we bear witness to him. We strengthen mutual trust and act openly and transparently. We are the same church in every direction. Responsibility We care for our neighbour near and far. We take measures to protect the creation and its integrity. We use common resources responsibly and support sustainable development. Justice We work for global justice. We promote human rights, freedom of religion and equality. 12 Our Church a community in search of unity 13

8 Aims I Our aim is the visible unity of the Church We aim towards the expression of Christian unity in worship and intercommunion. We commit ourselves to the legacy of undivided Christendom and seek Christian unity on the basis of our Lutheran identity. We seek unanimity with all Christians on the basic truths of faith. We pray for Christian unity and for the unity of the whole Church. We co-operate with all churches and Christian denomin ations working in Finland. II We care for the weak and shoulder global responsibility We act for the benefit of our fellow human beings, obligated by the love of God. We work for peace and justice. We bear responsibility for the creation and its future. We encourage parishes to increase financial support for international diaconia and mission. We are in active contact with other churches near and far on an equal basis. We engage in international diaconia, especially through Finn Church Aid and the church s missionary societies. III We promote the ecumenical dimension in the life of the church and its members We regard ecumenism as an opportunity to renew and strengthen our own church. We promote the growth of ecumenical attitudes in our church through knowledge and praxis. We are increasing ecumenical education in our parishes and recommend that it become part of all education in the church. We communicate information about ecumenical developments and as regards what the agreements signed by our church might mean in parish life and in the lives of church members. We confirm ecumenical practices in the public image of the church and in everyday parish life. IV We strengthen the significance of church membership in the world and in Finland We support the church contacts of expatriate Finns and their links with local churches. We share information regarding church activities and the services provided abroad. We encourage Finnish churches abroad to receive new members and provide them with opportunities for active involvement. We have an open attitude towards all immigrants and are ready to discuss matters of faith. We promote a positive, multicultural attitude in the church and in society. V We communicate a message and engage in open discussion We are obedient to the Great Commission and carry forward the message of the Gospel. We commit ourselves to act in accordance with the church s mission strategy. We commit ourselves to act in accordance with the confession of our church and the international agreements signed by us. We engage in open dialogue with representatives of other religions and worldviews. VI We will renew the structures of our ecumenical activities We promote ecumenical objectives in the strategies and activities of parishes, dioceses and church organizations. We monitor changes in the ecumenical situation and aim to influence the development of international ecumenical organizations and their activities. We extend opportunities to participate in ecumenical activities on various levels. We are building together a church that is ecumenically open and faithful to its calling. 14 Our Church a community in search of unity 15

9 of other churches as their own. Unity allows diversity of spiritual life. Ecumenism is itself a movement arising from Christian faith, the goal of which is church renewal and church growth into unity, service and witness. Unity is not the result of human effort but ultimately a gift of the Holy Spirit. Ecumenism is possible only where there is faith in Christ and reliance on the Holy Spirit who creates faith by the Word of God and the sacraments. Spiritual life, faith and prayer are an essential part of ecumenism and church renewal. We commit ourselves to the legacy of undivided Christendom and seek Christian unity on the basis of our Lutheran identity. I Our aim is the visible unity of the Church We aim towards the expression of Christian unity in worship and intercommunion. The objective of ecumenism is the visible unity of the Church. The visible unity of the Church of Christ presupposes agreement on the fundamental truths of faith and is visible in the joint celebration of the eucharist, as a common Christian witness and selfless service. Church unity will be possible to achieve when there is sufficient doctrinal agreement between churches and when the sacraments and the ordained ministry are recognised. Then churches will work together and regard members The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church believes and confesses that it belongs to the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ. Our Lutheran Church is the heir of the Catholic Church of the West and the continuator of its work, which since the Reformation represents the same Christian faith that St. Henry the first bishop of our church implanted in our country. Faithful to the principles of the Reformation, our church emphasizes the Word of God and the sacraments as the foundation of faith and salvation and as the true constitutive elem ents of the Church together with the ordained ministry of the Word and sacraments. The self-understanding of this church is clearly expressed in church law and in the church constitution: The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church acknowledges the Bible-based Christian faith which is expressed in the three ancient creeds and in the Lutheran confessions. The church s confession is expressed in more detail in the church constitution. (CL I, 1 1) The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church acknowledges the Christian faith which is based on God s holy 16 Our Church a community in search of unity 17

10 Word, the prophetic and apostolic books of the Old and New Testaments, and which is expressed in the three ancient creeds and in the original Augsburg Confession and in other Lutheran confessions included in the Book of Concord. The church takes as its highest guideline the principle of the confessional books that all doctrine in the church must be examined and evaluated by God s holy Word. (CC I, 1 1) Our church possesses a strong Lutheran identity and we are committed Finnish Lutherans. The activities and ecumenical contacts of our church arise from Lutheran belief and the Lutheran confession. Being a Lutheran and ecumenism are not options or antitheses, but manifestations of the same faith. We seek unanimity with all Christians on the basic truths of faith. Our church is a confessional Lutheran church which, faithful to its own tradition and confession, seeks agreement on the fundamental truths of faith with all Christians. In the view of our church, unity cannot be achieved by keeping silent about doctrinal differences. Only where churches take seriously their own doctrine and confession can they genuinely meet with representatives of other trad itions. According to the Augsburg Confession, what is sufficient for unity is agreement on gospel doctrine and the administration of the sacraments (CA VII). In the view of our church, what is sufficient (satis est) for Church unity that is, doctrinal agreement is also necessary (necesse est) to achieve unity. The objective of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church is not to aim at similarity in inter-church ecumenical relations. Agreement on the fundamental truths of faith is a sufficient requirement for church unity. We pray for Christian unity and for the unity of the whole Church. The basis of our church s ecumenical efforts is Christ s prayer for unity. Ecumenism presupposes faith in Christ and obedience to his will. We trust in God s grace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our efforts towards unity. We co-operate with all churches and Christian denominations working in Finland. Our church acts consistently and determinedly by being the same church in all directions. We are an active member church of the Finnish Ecumenical Council and we keep in regular contact with the Finnish Free Church Council and Frikyrklig samverkan, and with Christian churches active in our country. Our closest contacts are with those who, like our church, represent and respect the common legacy of undivided Christendom and who hold to the classic interpretation of Christianity and sacramental ecclesiology. We also work with churches and denominations whose doctrine and confessions differ from our own. Our common objective is reinforcing unity, witness and service. The basis for Christian co-operation is faith in Christ as God and Saviour and the acceptance of biblical authority and the doctrine of the Trinity. 18 Our Church a community in search of unity 19

11 tian life. The task of churches and Christians is to love their neighbour, spread the Word of God and seek church unity. Christ gave us an example of how other people should be treated (Lk. 10: 25-37, Mk. 10:46-52). In the Lutheran view, diaconia is not only an important part of Christian life, but is at the heart of Christian faith and an inseparable part of it. In His mercy God sacrificed Himself for the sake of humankind. He did not love men and women because they are good in themselves, but loved human beings and the world in spite of sin. This love engenders love in us, wherewith we are able to love other people. God s love for us makes it possible for us to love our neighbour. Diaconia is not only an obligation or tool for Christians, but is an inseparable part of our lives. II We care for the weak and shoulder global responsibility We act for the benefit of our fellow human beings, obligated by the love of God. The basis for the church s socio-ethical activities arises from the Old Testament (Ex ; Lev. 25), from Jesus ministry in the Gospels, and from other books of the New Testament (Jas. 5:4). Faith and love belong together. Love for our neighbour calls us to act for the benefit of those in need. In addition to alleviating human suffering, the church should exert influence on unjust structures and practices through its preaching. Preserving dignity of life is an inseparable part of church life. Socio-ethical activities are in the very nature of churches, for the demand for justice is an essential part of the Chris- Often in ecumenical discussions a distinction is made between doctrinal ecumenism (Faith and Order ecumenism) and ethical ecumenism (Life and Work ecumenism). The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church wishes to combine these two angles. The Golden Rule shows that one s relationship with one s neighbour cannot be separated from one s relationship with God. Therefore socio-ethical activities and provoking discussion are not only the churches right, but an obligation arising from their selfunderstanding. Then the church s ecumenical and doctrinal dialogues with other denominations will include more practical elements. The church has an important role to play in social development. First of all, churches are often trusted participants in their society. They are trusted more than the police, politicians or the press. Secondly, they work among people even in the farthermost villages. In countries where the infrastructure is undeveloped this is highly significant. The church acts as people s teachers and models in the various areas of life. Thirdly, churches stay to support people even during major disasters. Even if foreign organizations have to leave when disaster threatens, the churches remain in villages and towns to carry out their diaconal task. In addition to meeting needs, in the future the church will have an even more important role to play in defending human rights. Therefore the question of 20 Our Church a community in search of unity 21

12 human rights and church theology is particularly important. We work for peace and justice. Many churches and church federations have begun more frequently to discuss their role in issues of peace. Questions of peace have also arisen in inter-faith discussions. An open letter sent by Muslim leaders to Christian leaders is one sign of this. The role of religion in building peace will be important in the future. The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church will continue to be actively involved in emphasising the role of churches and religion in settling conflicts. We bear responsibility for the creation and its future. Many churches (e.g. the Church of Sweden, the Ecumenical Patriarchate) and ecumenical organizations (the World Council of Churches, the European Conference of Churches, the African Conference of Churches and many others) have introduced the issue of environmental and climatic change on their agenda. The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church has also approved its own environmental and climate programme. The climate issue must continue to be a natural part of the church s partnership with the churches of the south. Climatic change affects primarily the global south, where the population do not have the chance to adjust to changes as well as the people of the global north. We encourage parishes to increase financial support for international diaconia and mission. In 1999 the Bishops Conference recommended that in 2000 the proportion of grants should be three percent of tax income. In their 2004 budgets parishes granted an average 2.5% of their tax income to support Finn Church Aid and church mission organizations. The church s new strategy working group proposed that parishes should set aside four percent of their budget for supporting international diaconia and mission work. During the past decade differences between rich and poor countries have continued to grow. Therefore it is natural that parishes bear even greater social responsibility for those who are in the very worst situation. Finnish parishes can afford to support the people of the global south. The church also has a very good opportunity to set the government an example. Supporting international diaconia is not a matter of how much money is given to Finnish organizations. What is more important is to pay attention to the quality of work and possible overlapping in church activities and those of church organizations. We are in active contact with other churches near and far on an equal basis. The bilateral relationships of the Church Department for International Relations with various churches have been weighted towards Scandinavia, North America, and Eastern and eastern Central Europe. Relationships with the Church of Ingria, the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church, the Russian Orthodox Church and the Hungarian Lutheran Church have coloured the church s bilateral international ecumenical activities. In addition, contacts with the Church of England and the Church of Ireland have increased, especially in the context of the Porvoo Agreement. And we must not overlook co-operation with German churches; this involves theological matters on the one hand, and practical matters and work among expatriate Finns on the other. However, contacts with the global south have remained very limited. Church organizations have worked closely with churches of the global south, but the central administration of the church has not been involved (with the exception of co-operation in Namibia). In the future the Church Department for Inter- 22 Our Church a community in search of unity 23

13 national Relations will pay more attention to inter-church relationships, not merely in the immediate environment, but also much more extensively. Active and egalitarian contacts presuppose that both parties are aware of their role in co-operation. The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church and its organizations have several co-operation agreements with various churches. The church s new mission strategy brings greater clarity on this matter. We engage in international diaconia, especially through Finn Church Aid and the church s missionary societies. Finn Church Aid is the main agent of international diaconia of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church. Church mission organizations also operate in the area of social responsibility. Approaches are different from organization to organization, and organizations must consult to ensure that their division of labour is a clear one. Finn Church Aid has the church s mandate for its activities, and this separate legal entity is through governance linked to the church s decision-making system. The work of Finn Church Aid is inspired by the church s faith and is based on both prophetic and caritative diaconia. The position of church mission organizations is based on the decisions of the General Synod to accept the present seven organizations as church mission organizations. According to the church s proposed mission strategy, this arrangement would be replaced by an agreement signed by the church and each mission organization, in which the rights and obligations of church mission organization are defined. In Finn Church Aid s international operations humanitarian aid and emergency response occupy an important position. In humanitarian work international codes of conduct are observed. Finn Church Aid operates through a co-operation network, thus making it possible to take action where disasters occur. This concerns church mission organizations mainly when their partners request help in dealing with humanitarian crises. Church mission organizations are involved in bearing international social responsibility. The mission document of the Lutheran World Federation speaks of holistic mission which comprises both preaching, social diaconia work and exercising influence on social and political structures. Partners of mission organizations are most frequently Lutheran churches around the world. Finn Church Aid and certain church mission organizations are engaged in co-operation with the World Council of Churches (WCC) and the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and finance their activities. At the moment Finn Church Aid is the largest Finnish financer in both the WCC and the LWF. When church mission organizations emphasise their co-operation with international church federations it is important that they also contribute financially to the work of the said organizations and also support partner churches through these organizations. ACT Alliance, a co-operation organization of churches and church agencies, is a principal partner. Finn Church Aid is a member of ACT Alliance, the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission being an observer member. Finn Church Aid supports churches both bilaterally and multilaterally through international church agencies. Mission organizations support their co-operation churches mainly bilaterally, but some organizations have also begun to support churches multilaterally, for instance through the LWF. If changes take place in co-operation between our church organizations and international church federations, they will consult with each other on changes and with bodies responsible for the church s foreign affairs. Finn Church Aid and church mission organizations are channels of government development co-operation allowances. This is of prime importance from the point of 24 Our Church a community in search of unity 25

14 view of the church s social responsibility. Co-operation presupposes careful assessment of the situation in national and local churches. Activities must continue to be transparent. Church mission organizations responsible for international diaconia are co-ordinated by the Church Committee for Global Mission. 26 Our Church a community in search of unity 27

15 efforts towards unity are based: There is one body and one Spirit just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. These both show that church unity is an essential part of the Christian faith. Ecumenism is understood as unity on a Christian basis and as the quest for it. In that sense ecumenism is not a black and white matter that either exists or does not. Although the ultimate objective of ecumenism is full unity, its realization is often some way away. We understand that the ecumenical objective of unity also means change in ourselves. Growth in ecumenical attitudes will at the same time renew our own church. III We promote the ecumenical dimension in the life of the church and its members We regard ecumenism as an opportunity to renew and strengthen our own church. Church unity is not only one possible feature of our faith, but is a central element of faith. One of the main passages of the New Testament concerning Christian unity is Jesus prayer (Jn. 17:21) that believers might be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you. Ephesians 4: 4-6 is another commonly adduced passage on which ecumenical We promote the growth of ecumenical attitudes in our church through knowledge and praxis. The origin and growth of an ecumenical attitude can be influenced by example and education. This can mean correcting wrong ideas, reducing prejudices or assuaging fear of the unknown. In an era of globalization church members face chal lenges where it is important to be aware of one s own premises. Encounters with people of other denomin ations and people of other faiths take place everywhere, in schools, in the workplace and in homes. The objective of ecumenical education is not only increasing knowledge, although the aim is to provide basic information about ecumenism, its goals and methods. The objective is reinforcing ecumenical motivation and attitudes on the basis of Lutheran identity. A strong demonstration of ecumenical attitude is prayer for other churches and for churches active in their own locality. 28 Our Church a community in search of unity 29

16 Ecumenical education supports a positive attitude towards ecumenism on the part of church members and strengthens motivation. It thus provides increased opportunities for ecumenical activities and makes them more interesting. The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church considers it important that school textbooks and confirmation school broach the subject of ecumenism and other denominations and that it is taught openly. During the period of the strategy the present situation will be reviewed and the necessary measures taken. We are increasing ecumenical education in our parishes and recommend that it become part of all education in the church. The starting-point of ecumenical education is faith in Jesus Christ as God and Saviour, as God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and recognising biblical authority (the WCC constitution). The concept of ecumenism must be highlighted by ecumenical educators so that its many aspects receive their due. In ecumenical education it is important that an ecumenical attitude is nurtured and reinforced, even when there are significant differences between churches. It is important that churches work together in all these matters wherever and whenever possible. Ecumenism which thinks it a waste of time to take into consideration all differences is not on a sustainable basis. The most important task is distributing the kind of material that affects the work of our church s ecumenical educators and church members opportunities to participate actively. We recommend that church members attend ecumenical training programmes, for young people in particular KETKO. (Ketko is an international and ecumenical training programme organized by the Finnish Ecumenical Council.) During the period of the strategy the Church Council for International Relations will decide on the matter of the continuation of the church s bilateral scholarships. At present the church has bilateral scholarship exchange with the Russian Orthodox Church, the Hungarian Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Theological Seminary of Gettysburg (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America). In addition, there is co-operation with the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Church of Ingria. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria offers members of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church theological scholarships to Erlangen. The Church Department for International Relations is our church body which draws up background material for our church s decisions on ecumenical policy (which are taken by the Church Council for International Relations, the Bishops Conference, the Church Council and the General Synod). The task of the department is to inform other bodies of our church s ecumenical policy and of any decisions it takes, so that they may produce material that can be used in ecumenical education. The resources of the Department for International Relations for ecumenical education suffice mainly to provide expert advice for those whose task it is to undertake ecumenical education on the diocesan, parish and organization level. Ecumenical education must be offered where other Christian education takes place. Therefore the Department for International Relations must see to it that the available material corresponds to decisions taken by our church. We communicate information about ecumenical developments and as regards what the agreements signed by our church might mean in parish life and in the lives of church members. It is important to ensure on a regular basis the availability of information on our church s ecumenical policy. Care must be taken that our church members receive accurate 30 Our Church a community in search of unity 31

17 information as to the rights offered them by ecumenical agreements entered into by our church. In addition, we need up-to-date information as to how agreements develop. We confirm ecumenical practices in the public image of the church and in everyday parish life. Our aim is that the public image of the church, its brochures, material on the Internet, television and radio programmes show that we believe in the unity of the Church. We bring ecumenism and co-operation in Finland to public notice, both in celebrations and in everyday life. In everyday parish life we encourage grassroots ecumenism, for example meetings with the staff of local churches, and finding natural ways of co-operation both in times of both joy and sorrow (important celebrations, major disasters). We publicize in a comprehensible way international ecumenism, ecumenical agreements and co-operation in different organizations. 32 Our Church a community in search of unity 33

18 found Christian congregations in line with the confession of our church. We reinforce their integration into the local church, which also helps adjustment to the new environment. In work among expatriate Finns theological and ecumenical matters may take very difficult practical forms, especially in countries where there are many doctrinal differences between our church and the national or local church. We support Finnish churches abroad, especially when they need theological input from the central administration of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church and its leadership in order to keep open channels for discussion. IV We strengthen the significance of church membership in the world and in Finland We support the church contacts of expatriate Finns and their links with local churches. It is important for expatriate Finns to attend the Word and sacraments and to take part in church life and decision-making in their new homeland. The basic elements of work among expatriate Finns are public worship, occasional services, and pastoral care. We provide expatriate Finns with opportunities to attend church services and meetings in their own mother tongue and their right to We share information regarding church activities and the services provided abroad. We help to maintain expatriate Finns contacts with the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church and Finnish Christianity. We exploit the Internet and take care that information about work among expatriate Finns and its links are constantly brought up to date. We encourage Finnish churches abroad to receive new members and provide them with opportunities for active involvement. Church work among expatriate Finns work is especially challenging where so-called old and new colonies and immigrant generations meet. Many parish communities are prone to conflicts between members of staff and are therefore vulnerable. In these situations the church s department for work among expatriate Finns offers special support and encourages the creation of an open atmosphere. The strength of work among expatriate Finns has always been the significant proportion of volunteers bearing responsibility on the local level. When the clergy s duties 34 Our Church a community in search of unity 35

19 cover a wide geographical area, parishioners naturally take care of many administrative tasks in the parish and in practical work. They represent continuity in the work and silently pass on information. We support these networks of volunteers. Maintaining contacts is essential, especially where parish work is loosely organised and the Finnish community is small. We have an open attitude towards all immigrants and are ready to discuss matters of faith. skills both for working with immigrants and for dealing with our church s ecumenical contacts. We invite immigrants to church activities, to hold positions of responsibility, and encourage them to apply for ordination training. We pay special attention to ensuring that the children and young people of Christian immigrant families take part in church activities. Contact with the local church helps immigrants to settle down in their new living environment. We pay especial attention to the reception of immigrants in local churches. As far as possible, we direct Christian immigrants to a church of their own denomination. We support foreign national churches and various foreignlanguage churches in our country. In practical forms of co-operation we observe ecumenical agreements signed by our church. We are available to meet immigrants of other faiths and are ready to discuss matters of faith with them. We train parish employees and lay representatives so that they have sufficient knowledge and skills to meet immigrants. We promote a positive, multicultural attitude in the church and in society. We understand that the church can influence public attitudes in a significant way so that human rights are ensured and peace in society is strengthened. We participate in discussion of matters affecting society and in proposed legislation in co-operation with other churches and Christian communities. We make use of experience gained abroad in the church on the national and local level. We take seriously the fact that church employees, church members and missionaries returning to Finland from abroad are a resource for our church. Their experience and expertise provide many 36 Our Church a community in search of unity 37

20 and work of Christ, his life, death and resurrection, God s love became visible. Called and authorised by Christ, his followers bear witness to their Lord in all the world: All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matt. 28:18-20). Mission is the real reason for the existence of the church and a way of life. V We communicate a message and engage in open discussion We are obedient to the Great Commission and carry forward the message of the Gospel. Mission is based on the activity of the Triune God in the world. The basis for mission is the mutual love between the Persons of the Trinity. God created man for this purpose. God has not rejected nor forgotten his creatures, even though they have become separated from Him through sin. God became incarnate in Jesus of Nazareth. In the teaching The church lives and acts in a world in which injustice prevails. For this reason the church s task in the world is to be understood holistically. The churches mission work includes not only preaching the gospel but also diaconal and social dimensions. This holistic view we wish to preserve in the work of the churches. Just as the churches task in the world always includes preaching, caritative diaconia and the social dimension, it must be remembered that all three elements are just as valuable and each of them in itself serves the church s holistic task in the world. Our church desires to carry out faithfully the missionary task in a changing environment. This causes us problems of adjustment. We must be able to co-operate on an equal basis with the Third World churches. We must resolve the humiliating economic dependence of poor churches on the rich churches of the north. The mission work of the churches of the south and east in Europe affects the self-understanding of our own church. This development might lead to the fragmentation of Christianity. In spite of changes and problems of adjustment, the Great Commission is and remains in force. We must go above all where Christ is not yet known. We commit ourselves to act in accordance with the church s mission strategy. In a meeting on December 4th, 2008 the Church Committee for Global Mission presented a proposal for the 38 Our Church a community in search of unity 39

21 church s mission strategy. On December 15th, 2008 the Church Council for International Relations approved the committee s draft to be presented to the Church Council. The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church and its mission organizations act in accordance with the church s mission strategy. The mission strategy will be brought up to date as and when necessary, and always in consultation with mission organizations and Finn Church Aid. According to the proposal, the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church would enter into official agreements with mission organizations. Mission organizations are by nature service organizations of the church. In order for cooperation between the church and mission organizations to be as flexible and effective as possible, the Church Office for Global Mission must play a prominent role in the co-ordination and development of mission work. Therefore personnel resources of the unit must be reinforced so that resources correspond to needs. Job descriptions also need to be updated. The proposal of the Church Committee for Global Mission for a church mission strategy contains a proposal for the creation of the position of diocesan secretary for international work. These secretaries would become dio cesan employees. The diocesan chapters would be allocated money from the church s common funds for the payment of salaries and to finance activities. At the same time their job description would be expanded to comprise the international and ecumenical work of the diocese. We commit ourselves to act in accordance with the confession of our church and the international agreements signed by us. Confession is the key to a deeper understanding of faith and to assessment of contemporary phenomena. Without a theological tradition one cannot positively develop contextual theological work, which is necessary to carry out the church s mission in a changing environment. Our church and its mission organizations support partners on the basis of the Lutheran confession when they develop their own theological work. Of the mission organizations, the Finnish Bible Society is ecumenical in nature. Our church has something to learn from its partners. This means strengthening of reciprocity when dealing with foreign churches. The experiences of growing churches in arranging congregational worship, outward-directed work and training of church members inspire the traditional churches. Getting to know the way in which partner churches interpret the Christian faith and theological work opens up new angles on the understanding of the interplay between confession and culture. Studying another context leads to a re-appraisal of one s own context. The primary partners of our church and its mission organizations are Lutheran churches around the world. Mission organizations have been and are supporting the founding of new churches. Before organizing as a church, mission organizations have an important role to play in establishing ecumenical contacts. After the church is organized responsibility and decision-making authority for arranging ecumenical relationships are transferred to it. The church s mission organizations must promote good ecumenical relationships everywhere. In countries where there are several Lutheran churches, mission organizations must be supported and their efforts towards unity promoted. The church s mission organizations and Finn Church Aid participate in the activities of the Lutheran World Federation and of other ecumenical organizations. With growing internationalism several church organizations are involved in international networks. The involvement of many organizations also creates tensions. Therefore it is essential that the missionary nature of the church is so well understood that our church has the same voice and the same face irrespective of the direction in which it is facing. 40 Our Church a community in search of unity 41

22 Our church and its mission organizations also have non- Lutheran partner churches. An important part of practical mission work is co-operation with various international organizations. In developing these relationships ecumenical agreements signed by our church are observed, and we can profit from bilateral discussions with the Orthodox, Roman Catholics, Pentecostals, members of the Free Church, Methodists and Baptists. Many ecumenical organizations are changing both in their types of activities and in structure. Typical is the tension between the traditional search for unity and the threat of fragmentation. The latter is caused by, for example, the spread of independent churches and new charismatic movements. From the viewpoint of mission work, bilateral relationships and negotiations between churches are even more important. The threshold between activities based on personal contacts and inter-church relations has been lowered. When meeting a person of another faith one must remember that a relationship that enables discussion can be created only in an atmosphere of trust. References to other people and words addressed to them must be truthful, and everyone should have equal rights to express their faith. Discussion is possible only if our own religious identity is strong and we know what our faith comprises and how it is expressed. Changes in society, communities and culture bring confusion to peoples minds. Changes also affect family life. One must learn to provide support for multi-faith families or families living in a multi-faith context. Projects for the common good and equality between men and women should be promoted. Acting in a spirit of religious freedom includes freedom to change religion. In this respect the missionary nature of the Christian faith is always present. The growth of Asian and African churches and active participation in ecumenism causes changes in ecumenical relations. The special task of church mission organizations and Finn Church Aid is to support their partner churches. They in turn ensure that the voice of partner churches be heard in our church and in international contexts. We engage in open dialogue with representatives of other religions and worldviews. We live in a society that is becoming more multi-faith. It is important for society that people of different faiths as well as the non-religious live in peace. An increasingly multi-faith society is a new challenge to our church which has lived historically and culturally in a folk church situation. Meeting people of other faiths expands our awareness. We learn to know foreign ways of thinking and foreign ways of life. At the same time we have to evaluate our own faith and Christian way of life from an altered perspective. 42 Our Church a community in search of unity 43