Vaasa City Church — How did it start?

The church was founded in late 1989 by Tom and Monika Lipkin. They both came to faith in 1980, the same year they were married. In 1979, they had joined a small Christian fellowship for university students. Although nothing spectacular happened outwardly, the Holy Spirit deeply touched their hearts. At that time, they had no idea what God was calling them to do.

Both Tom and Monika became active in a charismatic Lutheran church and later took on leadership roles in a Christian student association. Through these experiences, God began preparing them for the future.

In 1984–1985, they took leave from their jobs — Monika as a teacher and Tom as a civil engineer — to work with the mission organization Youth With A Mission (YWAM). In 1986, they resigned from their jobs, responding to God’s call to move to Sweden, where they completed a two-year Bible school program at Word of Life in Uppsala.

During the years 1986–1988, they felt called to start a non-denominational church in Vaasa. The church was officially established in November 1989 with eight courageous people. At that time, the spiritual climate in Finland was not very favorable for starting a new church, but despite the challenges, the church was born.

The church grew gradually. As pastors with limited experience at the time, Tom and Monika faced many challenges and had much to learn. Some seasons were easier, while others were more difficult. However, God has always been faithful.

The Church started as Swedish speaking church. Later on, the languages become both Finnish and Swedish. Around 15 years ago there come this international flavor in the church, and the languages become English and Finnish. Today English is the main languages.

Mission work began in Russia and later expanded to India, Thailand, and several African nations, including Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Nigeria. Mission has always been a central part of the church’s work, with recent efforts focusing particularly on Indonesia. This mission work has included preaching to large crowds, often accompanied by signs and healings, as well as encouraging and supporting local leaders and pastors.

Our theology is practical and grounded. We focus on the Gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the transforming power of God’s grace. Our vision is to build a healthy, grace-based church with both local and international outreach.

Locally, we are part of the wider Christian community, where churches support and encourage one another. This includes cooperation with both mainline churches, such as the Lutheran Church, and other denominations like Pentecostal and Baptist churches. In addition, we collaborate with various international mission organizations and churches.

Tom and Monika Lipkin continue to serve as senior pastors of the church.