Akaa church hires security for same-sex wedding amid reports of harassment

Akaa’s Lutheran congregation hired security guards for a same-sex wedding in May after a disruption during a church service the week prior, according to a report by Yle.

A young man was removed from Akaa Church in Toijala for disruptive behaviour when a same-sex couple’s marriage was announced. Video obtained by Yle shows the man standing and shouting loudly; his face has been blurred for privacy.

Majka Nurminen, chair of Akaa Pride and a city councillor, said the incident was part of a broader pattern of harassment against the local LGBTQ+ community, which has persisted for years. She added that many now fear attending church events.

Reverend Leena Sorsa confirmed the disruption and said the congregation took the situation seriously, leading to the decision to hire security for the wedding.

In 2023, opposition derailed plans for a rainbow service in Akaa, which the local LGBTQ+ community viewed as deliberate discrimination. This year, the congregation intends to hold its first such service.

City councillor Mia Joki (Christian Democrats) denied allegations of fostering a hostile environment. She acknowledged her influence as a public figure but rejected claims that her actions, including past complaints about rainbow services, were intended to harass. Joki called the security measures for the wedding an overreaction.

Joki, who left the church and its council last year after the congregation’s decision to allow same-sex weddings, said Akaa’s small size amplifies tensions but stressed that dialogue should include all perspectives.