The adult confirmation camp will be held in a peaceful setting by Lake Vitträsk. Photo: Aada Harju, Espoo Parishes
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This autumn, adults in Espoo have a unique opportunity to attend a confirmation camp designed specifically for them. For the first time, Espoo’s Lutheran churches are organizing an adult confirmation camp at the Hvittorp Retreat and Training Center in Kirkkonummi from October 11–13, 2024.
The adult confirmation camp offers a break from everyday life to explore life’s big questions in a peaceful, trust-filled environment.
Participants will dive into the core teachings of the Lutheran faith over the course of three days. Although the schedule is full, there is ample time for personal reflection, prayer, and journaling. The serene autumn landscape of Hvittorp and the comforting warmth of the sauna provide additional space for spiritual care.
“We want to offer an experiential version of confirmation school for adults. The camp format has been very popular with young people, and it allows adults to complete confirmation in a condensed timeframe,” says Tapio Suontakanen, a pastor from the Olari parish.
Who Can Attend?
The camp is open to adults aged 18 and over who live in Espoo. Church membership is not required, and those interested in joining the church can do so during the confirmation process.
Before the camp, each participant will receive a phone call from a pastor to discuss their expectations and the possibility of confirmation. The camp will conclude with a confirmation ceremony in Hvittorp’s chapel on Sunday, where participants can invite family and friends to share in the celebration.
Those who have not yet been baptized can be baptized during the camp. A godparent who is a member of the church is required for baptism.
Adults who have already completed confirmation are also welcome to attend, perhaps with a fiancé or an adult godchild who is currently undergoing confirmation.
Why Attend Adult Confirmation?
“Some people need confirmation for practical reasons, some are seeking a deeper understanding of God and spirituality, and others are looking for discussions on ethical questions,” Suontakanen explains.
Practical reasons may include plans for a church wedding or a desire to become a godparent. Full church membership requires baptism and confirmation, after which members can participate in Holy Communion, serve as godparents, and be married in a church ceremony. Confirmed members also have the right to run for church office in elections.
The cost of the autumn 2024 adult confirmation camp is €40 per participant, covering meals and accommodation in double rooms. The camp will be led by pastors Erika Kallio from Tapiola parish and Tapio Suontakanen from Olari parish. The camp will be conducted in Finnish.
Registration for the adult confirmation camp is open until September 29. Space is limited. For more information and to register, please follow the provided link.
HT
- Next Article Forecast: Finland to see an almost 20% drop in number of seven-year-olds
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
