Intro
Pirkko is a retired high school teacher and a former pastor’s wife. She speaks from the heart about unexpected life trials with passion because she’s been there!
- Unplanned moves and changes
- Unexpected life trials
- Overcoming fear and doubt
- Thankfulness for God’s grace
- Choosing contentment through scripture
Bio
Pirkko Rytkonen was born in Finland. She immigrated to Canada as a child with her family. She grew up on the shores of Lake Superior in Thunder Bay.
Pirkko received her Bachelor of Arts from Laurentian University and Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto. Pirkko is a published author of a novel and her memoir.
She and her husband moved to the Toronto area in 2017. They have two sons and two granddaughters.
Memberships
InScribe Christian Writers’ Fellowship, members in every province in Canada
he Word Guild, a Canadian community for Christian writers, editors, and speakers
Christian Speakers Community//Equipping Aspiring & Active Speakers, online
Interviews
Briggs on Books, Central Valley Talk Show, Fresno California https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fGLFtzKD10
Far From Home Podcast, Mabel Ninan (coming later)
Topics
I encourage women who are overwhelmed about life’s circumstances to set their focus on God’s goodness.
I used to be consumed with fear and anxiety. Uprooted from home to follow my husband’s ministry overseas and back. New home, new church, new experiences – it was a lot! But God was faithful. He helped me find contentment and joy.
I use my speaking and writing to teach others to be thankful. I help them find joy and trust God. This is especially important during unexpected changes and trials.
Takeaways
- Receive encouragement for everyday living
- Renewed interest in the Bible
- Refocus negative mindsets to new thoughts about God’s goodness
Book me for 2026!
I’m available to speak at your next Women’s event, Seniors gathering or church. Reach out in person or through social media. My email is: pirkkoryt@gmail.com.
The Bridge Markham, YES seniors meeting, February 19, 2026
This event was our church’s very first seniors gathering with over sixty people present, including some of our pastors.
Springvale Baptist Church, Stouffville, JOY seniors meeting, October 1, 2025
Pirkko’s talk at our Seniors Meeting was thoroughly enjoyed by all. She has a fascinating life story of challenge and change through which she is able to see God’s plan and path for her life. Sharon Russell, Event Planner of JOY gatherings at Springvale.
Saalem Church Thunder Bay, Finnish service, June 15, 2025
Evangel Church Thunder Bay, Ladies Bible Study, June 11, 2025
(No photo taken)
Suomi Koti, Toronto (Finnish Retirement Home) March 30, 2025
Saalem Church Finnish Seniors Friends Circle, Toronto, March 29, 2025
Shepherd Village Friday Fellowship, Toronto, November 8, 2024:
We were pleased to have Pirkko Rytkonen as our guest speaker in the fall of 2024. Her message “Finding Contentment Through Unexpected Changes & Trials” really resonated with our residents at Shepherd Village. Her speaking style connected well with the audience, and her visual presentation of photo slides and Scripture references complimented her message so well. Her message of faith and trust in the Lord was so encouraging for us. Chaplain at Shepherd Village
Saalem Church Finnish Seniors Friends Circle, Toronto, October 26, 2024:
Your presentation was beautiful, so encouraging. Pastor Miriam Kemppainen at Bayview Family Church/Finnish Saalem Church.
Fair Haven Family Camp, Women’s Tea, Beaverton, July 24, 2024:
She spoke to the hearts. Event Planner at Fair Haven Camp and Conference Centre, Beaverton, Ontario.
SAMPLE RECORDED VOICE TALKS:
My first recorded audio talk at Fair Haven Family Camp, Women’s Tea
My interview about my memoir – BETWEEN US – with Mabel Ninan from California on her Far From Home Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/@MiniStories65/videos
(scroll to the bottom for Episode 29 and Episode 30)
