Advent season begins with church services and celebrations across Finland

Today marks the beginning of the Advent season, with the first Sunday of Advent recognized as a significant occasion within the Evangelical Lutheran Church. This day heralds the start of a new liturgical year as well as the anticipation of Christmas. It is a particularly beloved day for many Finns, who often attend church services to celebrate.

In honor of this new church year, congregations will sing the Hosanna hymn during today’s services. The season of Advent comprises the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, each representing a time of reflection and preparation. Traditionally, the Monday following the first Advent Sunday kicks off a period of fasting that lasts until Christmas Eve.