Week after week, I note with joy that our churches across Finland are filling with people. It is a great sign of hope to see so many gathering together to live and share their faith. At the same time, it also gives rise to a certain concern: it is becoming increasingly clear that our premises no longer suffice for everyone. Many participate in Mass standing along the sides, in the entrance areas, or even on the stairs. In some parishes, large screens have been introduced so that the Mass can be followed from parish halls. I have also received messages from people who, due to lack of space, have had to turn back home without the possibility of participating in the Eucharist.
This is, as I often say, a “blessed problem.” Blessed, because it is a great blessing to see the Catholic population in Finland growing strongly – a blessing because the People of God thirst for His word and desire to receive the sacraments. Yet it remains a real challenge, for which we are seeking solutions. Together with parish priests, we are in discussions with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland in order to obtain the use of more chapels and churches, whether by renting them or, where possible, acquiring them as our own.
We know that our financial resources are limited, but we trust that God will guide us and provide the necessary means to find new places of worship for His glory.
In the meantime, I ask you to pray that we may find more churches and serve the People of God ever better in their needs. Nor should you forget that you are the living stones of this Church – the one, holy, Catholic and apostolic Church. If we remain faithful to Jesus, He Himself will give us everything we need.
I wish you all a blessed and joyful Easter. Under the guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our Mother, and Saint Joseph, let us bring Jesus to all people.
+ Raimo Goyarrola
Bishop of Helsinki
8 April 2026