Church Volunteers Increase in Finland

During a recession in the early 1990s volunteers in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland jumped in to help others, according to the church's recently released 1992-1995 four-year report. There are now more than 23,000 voluntary helpers who visit and provide assistance for the elderly, the handicapped, the sick and others who need help.

When unemployment increased during the recession, parishes began providing meals for the unemployed. Meals are now provided in more than 200 parishes for 40,000 people. The parishes have also arranged camps, trips, sauna evenings, study groups and discussion groups with the unemployed. In addition the church has tried to provide a greater voice for the unemployed in society.

Source: (LWI)

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