Parish elections 2026

In the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, parishes function independently and have a democratically based administration. Parish elections are held every four years. The next elections are held on 15 November 2026.

Parish elections are local elections that govern decision-making in Kotka-Kymi parish: how church tax money will be used, what activities will be offered, who will receive assistance and how parish resources will be directed. 

Let your voice be heard. 

What is the election about?

Parish council is the supreme decicion-making body in a parish. In the parish election, new members will be elected for the council. In Kotka-Kymi, 29 council members are elected. 

Council members, or representatives, can influence what happens in their parish, including how parish funds are spent and what activities are offered. The council adopts the parish’s annual budget, determines the local church tax rate, and creates and terminates positions within the parish.

Representatives will serve on the council for the years 2027-2030, until the next elections. 

Who can stand as a candidate?

Candidates must be confirmed members of the Church and at least 18 years old. Candidates have to give their written consent to stand for election. Nomination of candidates is open until 15 September.

If you would like to stand for election, contact publicist Elina Valtonen, elina.valtonen@evl.fi​​​​​​​ / 040 72 38 345.

Who can vote?

You can vote if you are a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and are at least 16 years old. Confirmation preparation or confirmation are not required; Church membership is enough.

Parish elections are local elections: you can only vote for candidates who are standing for election in your own parish. For example, if you are a member of Kotka-Kymi parish, you cannot vote for candidates in Hamina parish. 

Remember to bring your ID. Your identification will be confirmed at the voting location. 

Where to vote?

Advance voting takes place on 3–7 November. Kotka-Kymi parish organises advance voting in several locations across Kotka city. You can also vote in advance in any advance voting location of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, but you may only vote for candidates of your own parish. 

On election day 15 November, voting takes place in Kymi Church, Suntionkatu 18.