An empty Cathedral

I have spent the last 48 hours travelling. I am now at the most northern university town in the world, having spent most of the day walking around Helsinki. In the rain. As is my habit, I tried to visit at least the cathedral — there are two in Helsinki, a Lutheran and Orthodox one.

The Orthodox one was locked.

The Lutheran one was empty.  Apart from me and a few Chinese tourists.

Luke 12:41-48

41Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for everyone?” 42And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and prudent manager whom his master will put in charge of his slaves, to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? 43Blessed is that slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives. 44Truly I tell you, he will put that one in charge of all his possessions. 45But if that slave says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and if he begins to beat the other slaves, men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk, 46the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour that he does not know, and will cut him in pieces, and put him with the unfaithful. 47That slave who knew what his master wanted, but did not prepare himself or do what was wanted, will receive a severe beating. 48But the one who did not know and did what deserved a beating will receive a light beating. From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.

5 thoughts on “An empty Cathedral

  1. Hope you’re enjoying your travels.

    BTW, if you Kiwis observe Father’s Day, Happy Father’s Day!  If not, well, I still wish you well as a father.

  2. Were you visiting the churches to admire their architecture, or were you trying to attend mass? Scandinavian countries have very low church attendance; it would be shame if they’re always empty on Sundays.

    In case you’re wondering where all the Japanese tourists are, check Moomin World.

    I also wish you a happy Father’s Day [if Kiwis celebrate it]. Enjoy your travels.

  3. I was not trying to attend Mass, I’m reformed and by the time I had checked out of the hotel and got my bags to the airport (I am in Oulo for a conference for next three days) it was about 11 am when I got into Helsinki.

    I found Moomin stuff. Overly cute.

    Thanks for the Father’s days stuff. 

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