Submitted by Val Hiscock on
The Grand Priory of Finland celebrated its 50th anniversary in Turku on 26 April 2025 with a distinguished gathering of over 100 participants. Turku holds special significance for the Grand Priory as its spiritual home, being the location of the first investiture and ecumenical service in 1975. The celebration was honoured by the presence of the Grand Master, H.E. Don Francisco de Borbón Graf von Hardenberg GCLJ.
The festivities began with an ecumenical service held in Turku Cathedral. The sermon was delivered by Archbishop Tapio Luoma. The Grand Priory's ceremonial procession both opened and concluded the service, adding a solemn and festive touch to the beautiful devotion. In his sermon, Archbishop Luoma emphasised that empathy and the genuine encounter with another human being bring light into lives shadowed by darkness. Light brings relief and comfort—it gives hope and courage. With these words, he extended his blessing and strength to the Order in its work.
The anniversary dinner was held in the grand hall of the Turku Volunteer Fire Brigade House. The City of Turku was represented by Protocol Chief Mika Akkanen, who brought greetings on behalf of the city. During dinner, guests enjoyed superb musical performances by pianist Mikko Heininen and guitarist-singer Luis Herrero. In her welcome address, Grand Prior Helena Pesola reminded attendees that continuous development of our activities is key to the vitality of our Order in the years to come. Our mission remains necessary, and our strong values and sense of community guide us in continuing our work amidst the challenges of the world.
The anniversary address was delivered by H.E. Chev. Matti Vuoria GCIrLJ, serving as both Grand Referendary and Grand Custodian in the Grand Magistral Council. Greetings were also conveyed by Referendary Andreas Rademachers KCLJ from the Grand Bailiwick of Germany.
Jubilee Year special donations
Russia’s brutal war has disrupted the lives of children in Ukraine and caused severe damage to their well-being. 7.5 million children are in need of help. The Grand Priory of Finland donated €5,000 in emergency aid to support Ukrainian children's education, healthcare, and future security. Another €5,000 donation was directed to the Ghandhjii Seva Nikitan leprosy hospital in India, a long-time recipient of our charitable support. Each year, around 100,000 people in India still contract leprosy. Support is needed both for prevention and for helping those already affected by the disease.
During the evening, guests also had the opportunity to make additional voluntary donations in support of Ukranian children, which raised over 2100€. Our members say that working for the good of others gives life a deeper meaning. In the autumn, we will continue our charitable activities, focusing especially on low-income families with children through our Christmas Coin campaign, says Grand Prior Helena Pesola.
A commemorative brochure has been produced for this very special occasion, and can be viewed or downloaded here.