- The Firstborn Laestadianism
Firstborn Laestadians are a subgroup within
Laestadianism . The "Firstborn" are known for theirtradition alism and their conservativepietistic ideals, and they seek to avoid "worldly pleasures". The name "Firstborn" relates to theBible , Hebr. 12:23, which mentions "the church of the firstborn" (KJV). American and Canadian congregations always use theKing James Version of the Bible. In Finland, the Finnish Bible Version of the year 1776 is used. Both Bible versions are based on theTextus Receptus .In
Sweden this group is often known as "West Laestadians". They have adopted a more critical attitude towards the Church of Sweden than other Laestadians. There are many Firstborn Laestadian congregations in the U.S.,Canada ,Finland andNorway , one congregation inDenmark and some activity inRussia ,Estonia ,Germany andGreat Britain as well.In the US and Canada the "Firstborn" are found in the
Old Apostolic Lutheran Church . There are congregations e.g. inAlaska ,British Columbia ,Washington ,Wyoming ,Montana ,South Dakota ,Minnesota ,Michigan ,Ontario ,Delaware andNorth Carolina . In America the "Firstborns" are the greatest Laestadian subgroup. The "Firstborn" all over the world consider the congregation in Swedish Lapland, where the Laestadian movement began, as a mother congregation. Christmas meetings inGällivare , Sweden, are the most important annual event for the "Firstborn" Laestadians.Notable firstborn
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Erik August Larsson
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