Helsinki, Finland - Some 50 persons of all ages, many nationalities, and cultures gathered together in Helsinki to recognize and celebrate the yearly International Day of Families. The theme was ”Balancing Spirituality and Practical Affairs in the Family.”
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The keynote speaker was Mr. Markku Vuorinen, a nationally known evangelist, sports coach, entrepreneur, and an assemblyman of the city of Helsinki. He inspired the audience with his clear message:
”Before a road is built, its route is marked with sticks. The direction of our life needs to be marked by God's Word. God gave to man a woman, and to woman a man. When we appreciate and cherish our spouse as a present from God, when parents care for their children and children respect their parents, there is a reliable promise for the future of such a family. The family is the basis for a society. I am speaking with an experience of 42 years of marriage, several children, and grandchildren. Who else should speak out for the marriage and family if not we!”
Then everyone joined in a toast for a committed marriage and sang a traditional folk song praising the beauty of the home country. This celebration fittingly overlapped with Mothers' Day.
A joyful time for mutual sharing and a potluck lunch followed. The youth band ”Connection” provided musical inspiration throughout the program.
The sunny and warm spring day invited the young people to play ball games on the near-by field, thus rounding the spirited program with energetic action.
To read more about UPF observances of the International Day of Families 2012, click here.