Diak plays an active role as a reformer and developer of diaconal work and Christian education by participating in national and international RDI projects connected to the diaconal and educational work of the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Church and other sector actors. In addition, we study the religious field through project activities.
Diak aims to ensure that both the Church and wider society recognise the broad significance of diaconia and worldviews in encountering people in different life situations, as well as in promoting wellbeing and in building communities. The target groups of wide-ranging diaconia projects often include professionals and other actors working directly with the most vulnerable groups. At the same time, we contribute to societal development more broadly, with projects also targeting the social and health care sector and the education sector. Key areas for us include interreligious and intercultural dialogue, questions related to Christian education, and perspectives connected to palliative care and existential issues faced by people at the end of life.
Further information & partnership inquiries
Our development work is carried out in multidisciplinary cooperation with Diak’s key partners, including NGOs and parishes. Diak is involved in several community-based development projects that promote people’s participation. These projects strengthen the competence of diaconal workers in solution-focused and strengths-based methods, for example, and streamline service pathways for unemployed people and those with partial work ability.