Finland’s first fine dining event in a church sparks debate in Turku

A fine dining event at Turku’s St. Michael’s Church has drawn criticism from some locals, though the parish’s rector defends the initiative as a way to attract new visitors, Yle reports.

Rector Jouni Lehikoinen approved the event after receiving a request last autumn, stating that commercial concerns are secondary. “The reality of the evening is far from commercialism,” he said. “The church building itself, through its presence, speaks to many people.” The event, priced at €190 per person, sold out quickly, with 100 guests expected to attend across two sittings on Saturday.

The menu, prepared by chefs Erik Mansikka and Toni Kostian, includes optional alcohol pairings—a decision Lehikoinen acknowledged was carefully considered. “I’ve been told that in fine dining, most of the service is non-alcoholic,” he said. “This isn’t some kind of boozy party.” Organiser Aki Wahlman of Foody Allen confirmed that while most guests chose the wine package, the event follows classic dinner service norms, with no open bar or excessive drinking.

St. Michael’s Church is not charging rent for the event, as church representatives are involved. Lehikoinen admitted overlooking the chance to include a charitable donation component but promised it would be part of any future events. “That was my mistake,” he said. “Next time, there will definitely be a charitable aspect.”

Meanwhile, Turku Cathedral—classified as a burial site—will not host similar dinners. Dean Aulikki Mäkinen explained that while the cathedral receives requests for events, its status limits possibilities. “If we were to serve food, it would be for the underprivileged and our diakonia [social welfare] clients,” she said. The cathedral does, however, permit “silent yoga” sessions, which Mäkinen described as aligned with Christian spirituality, blending scripture with movement.

Lehikoinen drew a clearer line, stating that St. Michael’s would not host events tied to other religions, including yoga or Islamic gatherings. “The church must dare to set boundaries,” he said.

The debate reflects broader trends in Finland, where churches increasingly explore unconventional uses. In Pori, Keski-Pori Church will host a fashion show next month featuring designs by Jukka Rintala. “Churches have historically been places of celebration where people dress their best,” said chaplain Henrika Hyttinen.

Under Finnish church law, local parishes have autonomy over event approvals, provided they respect the sacred purpose of the building. Petri Määttä, a church counsellor, noted that decisions are made in cooperation with parish councils.