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Evangelical Lutheran Church extends hand to immigrants

The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church is endeavouring to help immigrants join its ranks. An Episcopal meeting of bishops gave support to a change in the law to allow immigrants to join even if they do not have a registered home municipality.

Enkelipatsas kirkossa.
Image: Yle

Archbishop Kari Mäkinen says the aim is to ensure that immigrants could join any congregation without legal obstacles. Membership of non-Lutheran denominations such as The Finnish Free Church or the Finnish Orthodox church does not require registration.

The Lutheran Church has developed various services for immigrants over the years mainly in big cities. Other denominations also offer similar services.

A majority of immigrants are nominally Christian.

Sources: YLE