Ecumenical Christmas 2026

An ecumenical appeal for peace from Finland’s Christian denominations – Education of the heart builds peace

The Ecumenical Christmas event will be held for the 31st time this year. It takes place on 10 December 2026 at 18:00 at Martinkirkko in Turku, at Huovinkatu. The event will be televised and broadcast on YLE TV1 on 24 December 2026 at 11:05.

This year’s theme is “Education of the heart builds peace.” The humanitarian message at the event will be delivered by Academician of Science Martti Koskenniemi. At the Ecumenical Christmas event, Finland’s largest Christian denominations will present a joint appeal for peace. This year, it is being prepared by Bishop Raimo Goyarrola of the Catholic Church in Finland.

Joining the prayer for peace will be Tommi Koivunen, leader of the Finnish Free Church; Elia, Archbishop of the Orthodox Church of Finland and All Finland; and Tapio Luoma, Archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Turku and Finland.

The music will be provided by Jukka Pietilä, cantor of Turku Cathedral, and the Turku Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Ruut Kiiski. Also performing are soprano Emma Kajander, Markku Hietaharju on organ, and the Hups! handbell ensemble, conducted by Anu Åberg.

The audience will sing together from the Finnish Mission Society’s 2026 “Most Beautiful Christmas Carols” booklet. A warm welcome to Martinkirkko in Turku!