Manners and dress

In the monastery area

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

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

Drone flying in the monastery area is permitted with the written permission of the monastery director; the drone pilot must follow the general instructions and regulations for drone flying. https://droneinfo.fi/fi

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

Cars are left in the designated area.

During services

Men traditionally sit on the right side of the church door and women on the left. During services, people usually stand, but churches also have a few benches where people can rest during the service. However, churchgoers should stand at least for the reading of the Gospel, the Lord's Prayer, and the consecration of the Eucharistic Gifts. It is also good to remember that it is not advisable to sit cross-legged in church, meaning one leg on top of the other.

In monastery services, women are expected to cover their hair with a scarf or other headgear. Men are always bareheaded in church. Outerwear can be left on the coat rack in the church vestibule, especially in winter.

During the incense burning, churchgoers move to the middle of the church so that the priest can walk around the church hall without hindrance.