Conservative Laestadianism is one of the revival movements within the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. Conservative Laestadianism has also spread beyond Finland’s borders. The movement functions regularly in 22 countries. The most important activities are services, Sunday schools, day circles, and Bible classes. The primary content of these activities are reading and explaining the Bible, prayers, and singing songs of Zion and hymns.
To organize its activities, Conservative Laestadians in Finland have established associations called rauhanyhdistys (RY). The events arranged by the RYs are open to all people. There are 173 RYs in Finland, with a total of around 35,000 members. The RYs’ central organization is Suomen Rauhanyhdistysten Keskusyhdistys (SRK),which supports the activities of the RYs, does mission work, organizes camps, and publishes papers, books, and audio material. You can read about the activities of SRK and the RYs on SRK’s website.
Conservative Laestadians’ understanding of faith is based on the Bible. We believe that the Bible is the word of God and that in the Bible God has revealed everything a person needs to know to be saved from the power of sin, to live in unity with God, and to receive everlasting life. The Bible is the Conservative Laestadians’ ultimate instruction for faith and life.
Conservative Laestadians live as a part of society, but they seek to adhere to Biblical teachings and traditional Christian values and live accordingly. We have a positive attitude toward social development and changes, as long as they do not contradict with faith and a good conscience. We appreciate diligence and responsibility and want to actively participate in the upbuilding of society.