Savonlinnan seurakunnan kirkkoneuvosto has terminated its after-school program agreement with Savonlinnan kaupungin. The decision affects first and second-grade children in this Finnish city.
The church made this announcement in an official statement. Other organizations continue providing after-school care in Savonlinnan.
Finland's Opetushallituksen issued new guidelines prohibiting religious practice in shared activities. The rules specifically include after-school programs. Religious events must now be organized separately from general activities.
Savonlinnan seurakunta had been conducting weekly devotionals and food prayers before snacks. The church council determined that after-school activities without these elements no longer qualify as church work.
Church leader Sammeli Juntunen explained their position in the statement. He said the church cannot implement societal activities if it cannot naturally share its message about a loving God. The congregation must serve children and families in ways that keep the church's message visible.
The after-school program will operate normally through spring 2026. It currently runs five days weekly for four hours each day. Approximately 45 children and eight instructors participate.
Due to the termination, the church has started production and economic procedures. This includes potential layoff negotiations. The church leader acknowledged that dismissals remain possible.
The congregation plans to reallocate freed resources. It will organize open after-school activities for elementary students in church-owned facilities.
This situation highlights the tension between public services and religious practice. The church chooses to withdraw rather than operate under secular constraints. Meanwhile, families must find alternative arrangements for their children's care.