Non-Alcoholic Communion Wine Gains Ground in Finnish Parishes
The use of non-alcoholic communion wine has become more widespread in Finnish Evangelical Lutheran parishes, with some now offering only alcohol-free options. While no precise statistics exist, Yle reports that in certain congregations, such as Sotkamo Parish, all communion wine is non-alcoholic. Other parishes, including Hämeenlinna-Vanaja and Järvenpää, provide non-alcoholic wine upon request or during specific services like confirmations.
Arto Vallivirta, an expert on worship life at the Church Council, confirms the trend, stating that non-alcoholic wine is at least available alongside traditional options in all churches. In some cases, the shift has been driven by cost considerations, though Sotkamo Parish priest Heikki Nissinen notes that the decision there was made primarily with young people and families in mind. Ilta-Sanomat also highlights that financial factors have influenced the change in some parishes.
Practical Considerations and Traditions
Non-alcoholic wine presents logistical challenges due to its shorter shelf life. Yle explains that once opened, it spoils more quickly than alcoholic wine, which is typically sweet and fortified for better preservation. To address this, some parishes have adopted freezing non-alcoholic wine in small portions, such as in ice cube bags, to extend its usability.
Traditionally, communion wine in the Evangelical Lutheran Church is alcoholic, with an alcohol content often around 15 percent. However, leading chaplain Heidi Lieke of Hämeenlinna-Vanaja Parish emphasizes that the key requirement is that the wine be made from grapes, regardless of alcohol content. She notes that non-alcoholic wine is frequently requested by young people, individuals with medical restrictions, or those who avoid alcohol for personal reasons.
The amount of wine consumed during communion is minimal—less than one centiliter per person—making it a symbolic rather than intoxicating experience. Yle estimates that approximately 16,000 liters of communion wine, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, were used in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in 2025.
Changes Beyond Wine
The shift toward inclusivity extends beyond wine. Many parishes, including Hämeenlinna-Vanaja, Sotkamo, and Järvenpää, now serve gluten-free communion bread (öylätti) by default. This change reflects broader efforts to accommodate dietary restrictions and ensure accessibility for all congregants.
While the tradition of alcoholic communion wine remains strong, Lieke suggests that non-alcoholic options better align with the principle of accessibility. Vallivirta’s observations indicate that the practice varies by parish, with some opting for non-alcoholic wine only in specific contexts, such as confirmation services, while others have made a complete transition.