The Firstborn Laestadianism

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Firstborn Laestadians is a subgroup within Laestadianism. The "Firstborn" are known for their very strict and conservative pietistic ideals, and they seek to avoid "worldly pleasures". The name "Firstborn" relates to the Bible, Hebr. 12:23, where it is spoken about the congregation of firstborns.

In Sweden this group is often known as "West Laestadians". They have adopted a more critical and separatist attitude towards the Church of Sweden than other Laestadians. There are several firstborn laestadian congregations also in the USA, Canada, Finland and Norway and some movement also in Denmark, Russia, Estonia, Germany and Great Britain.

In the US and Canada the "Firstborns" are found in the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church. There are congregations e.g. in Washington, South Dakota, Minnesota and Michigan. In America the "Firstborns" is the greatest Laestadian subgroup.

The "Firstborns" all over the world confess the congregation in Swedish Lapland, where the Laestadian movement began, as a mother congregation. Christmas meetings in Gällivare, Sweden, is the most important annual event for the "Firstborn" Laestadians.