August 3–12, 2026 · Western Uusimaa, Finland
Day 1 — Arrival in Finland and a Warm Welcome
The East African Gospel team arrived at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport on August 3, 2026, where they were warmly welcomed by Pastor Timo Kulta and Mrs. Satu Kulta. The team travelled to Vihti, settled into their hosts’ home and shared an evening meal together.
The day marked the beginning of an international ministry journey centred on gospel music, Christian fellowship and sharing the hope of Christ with communities in Finland.
Ministry Tour · Arrival & Welcome
Day 2 — Discovering Finnish Culture and History
On August 4, the team explored Finnish culture, history and daily life through a guided city tour. They visited Suomenlinna, the historic sea fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and viewed significant landmarks in Helsinki, including a historic church and important national buildings.
The experience offered the team an opportunity to appreciate Finnish heritage, architecture and community life while strengthening relationships through shared exploration and fellowship.
Cultural Exchange · Finland Tour
Day 3 — East African Gospel Cultural Concert at ViaDia
On August 5, East African Gospel ministered at a cultural concert hosted by ViaDia Länsi-Uusimaa ry in Nummela. Through vibrant gospel music from Uganda, the team shared East African worship traditions with the local community.
The concert featured energetic praise, diverse musical styles and opportunities for fellowship between Finnish attendees and the visiting team. After the performances, participants shared refreshments, stories and conversations, celebrating the unity of believers across cultures.
Gospel Concert · Cultural Ministry
Day 4 — Fellowship and Finnish Cottage Life
On August 6, the team enjoyed a special day at the country cottage of their hosts, Pastor Timo and Mrs. Satu Kulta. Set beside a beautiful Finnish lake and surrounded by nature, the cottage provided a setting for relaxation, cultural discovery and meaningful fellowship.
The team experienced swimming, a traditional Finnish sauna, games and a family lunch. The day highlighted the importance of Christian hospitality, friendship and building relationships beyond the stage.
Christian Fellowship · Cultural Experience
Day 5 — Community Evangelism and Festival Preparation
On August 7, the team participated in community outreach and prepared for the upcoming Valofestarit Gospel Festival. They visited Evangelist Ali, shared fellowship and testimonies, and joined their hosts in distributing invitations to the public.
The team also rehearsed at the Free Church of Vihti and visited the main festival venue at Nummela Town Square to prepare for the event. Churches, leaders and volunteers worked together in anticipation of the festival.
Evangelism · Festival Preparation
Day 6 — Valofestarit Gospel Festival: A Celebration of Worship
On August 8, East African Gospel took part in the Valofestarit Gospel Festival at Nummela Town Square. The event brought together music teams, churches and people from different backgrounds for an evening of gospel music, worship and the proclamation of God’s Word.
The programme featured Jipii Youth, Eve and Ossi, and East African Gospel. The East African Gospel team shared lively praise, worship and a message, presenting music in local East African languages and styles that connected with the audience.
The crowd responded with clapping, dancing and joyful participation. The festival demonstrated how gospel music can cross language and cultural boundaries while bringing people together in the name of Jesus.
Gospel Festival · International Ministry
Day 7 — Sunday Worship and Inter-Church Fellowship
On August 9, the East African Gospel team ministered during a Sunday service at the Free Church of Vihti, leading worship and sharing musical testimonies with the congregation.
The day also included a community potluck lunch, providing an opportunity to connect with church members and deepen friendships. In the evening, the team participated in a worship gathering with the Jipii Youth Band at another church.
The day’s activities strengthened relationships between the visiting musicians and local Christian communities through worship, shared faith and fellowship.
Church Ministry · Worship & Fellowship
Day 8 — Experiencing Finnish Nature and Culture
August 10 was set aside for cultural exploration and experiencing Finland’s natural beauty. The programme included a host-led excursion to enjoy the country’s landscape and local culture, followed by a farewell dinner in a traditional Finnish setting.
The day provided further opportunities for the team to appreciate their hosts’ generosity, reflect on the journey and strengthen the relationships built throughout the visit.
Cultural Experience · Ministry Tour
Day 9 — Reflection, Prayer and Thanksgiving
On August 11, the team had time for personal activities, rest and final preparations for the journey home. The day concluded with a gathering at the host family’s home for prayer and reflection on the tour.
It was an opportunity to give thanks for the ministry opportunities, celebrate the friendships formed and reflect on the experience of sharing the Gospel through music in Finland.
Prayer & Thanksgiving · Tour Reflections
Day 10 — Farewell to Finland
On August 12, the East African Gospel team prepared to leave Finland after ten days of ministry, worship, cultural exchange and Christian fellowship. The team travelled to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport for their departure flights home.
The tour had provided opportunities to share East African gospel music, serve local churches, participate in a major gospel festival and build relationships with believers in Finland. The ministry expressed gratitude to Pastor Timo and Mrs. Satu Kulta, ViaDia Länsi-Uusimaa ry, the Free Church of Vihti and everyone who helped make the visit possible.
Ministry Tour · Departure & Thanksgiving
