Customs and Dress

On the Monastery Grounds

It is customary in the monastery for both men and women to dress appropriately throughout the area. This way, the sanctity and unique nature of the monastery are respected. We hope that at least knees and shoulders are covered, as revealing attire is not suitable for the monastery.

Smoking is allowed only in designated areas. Monastery residents may not be photographed without permission. Photography is prohibited during services. The use of flash and tripods in churches is permitted only with the written permission of the head of the monastery.

Flying drones in the monastery area is permitted with written permission from the head of the monastery; the drone operator must follow general instructions and regulations for drone flying. https://droneinfo.fi/fi

With the exception of pet-friendly accommodation rooms, pets are not allowed inside churches or other buildings.

Cars must be left in the designated parking area.

During Church Services

Traditionally, men stand on the right side of the church (looking from the door) and women on the left. It is customary to stand during services, but there are also a few benches in the churches where one can rest during the service. However, the congregation should stand at least during the reading of the Gospel, the Lord's Prayer, and the consecration of the Holy Gifts. It is also good to remember that it is not appropriate to sit with crossed legs in church.

Women are requested to cover their hair with a scarf or other head covering during monastery services. Men are always bareheaded in church. Outerwear, especially in winter, can be left in the church's coat rack.

During censing, the congregation moves to the center of the church so that the priest can move freely around the nave.