This was the electronic card I received from the relocation company who moved me to Finland last year (which I have used with their permission). I include it to give you a seasonal greeting in Finnish.The most common wish at the moment is hyvää joulua - literally good Christmas. The word used here, rauhallista, means peaceful, also an important sentiment especially in Finland.
Back in the UK, our TV rituals for Christmas Day include the Queen's Christmas message. In Finland, the Declaration of Christmas Peace from Turku seems to have a similar place in people's hearts. According to the city of Turku's website, this has been read out in Turku almost every year since the Middle Ages. In addition to watching on Christmas Eve on TV, radio or the Internet; thousands of people arrive at Old Great Square to hear the words ring out from the balcony of Brinkkala Mansion.
"All of Finland settles down for Christmas as the bells resound through the square. At Christmas travellers can also find a moment’s peace in Turku.The bells of Turku Cathedral and city’s other churches toll the joy of Christmas, and on the night of Christmas Eve the cemeteries of the city are brightly lit with candles people have brought to the graves of their loved ones."
This evening, I am flying back to the UK for two weeks. I wish all of you reading this blog the same as I am looking forward to...a happy and peaceful time with those you care most about. Rauhallista joulua!
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