The parish of Tervo became independent in spring 1922. Architect Ilmari Launis dated the drawings of the church in Rome in 1923. The construction work was led by Martti Pasanen, a building master from Kuopio. The interior paintings were carried out by Mauno Paananen, an artist from Keitele. The church was completed in autumn 1925.
The church is built of red brick, partly plastered. It is a cross‑shaped church with short transepts, and the chancel is extended by a semicircular apse.
Stylistically, the church represents the historicism that appeared in Finland in the 1920s. The asymmetrical floor plan and decorative paintings show influences of national romanticism. The church also features Romanesque and Gothic elements, as well as classical columns and pilasters.
A distinctive external feature is the stepped gables. Launis may be the architect who used this style the most in Finland. This style, originally from Mesopotamia, is common in southern Europe. The abundant brick recess decorations associated with the stepped gables are reminiscent of medieval stone churches in Finland.
The church has undergone two major renovation and alteration projects. The first was carried out in 1970 according to plans by architect Veikko Larkas. The colour scheme followed the white‑grey tones typical of the period, and all wall decorations were covered. Most of the lighting was replaced with strong spot lighting emphasising the ceiling surfaces. This colour scheme and lighting significantly changed the former appearance of the church.
The restoration of the interior to its original style was carried out in 1991 according to plans by architect Matti Höyhtyä. The interior painting was done using the colours and patterns of the 1920s. The lighting was redesigned based on the original candle chandeliers and wall lamps. The altar furnishings were also renewed.
All the major festivals of the church year can be seen in the church’s interior. Christmas appears in the stained‑glass window designed by Launis, and Good Friday in the crucifix made by Paananen above the prayer candle stand. The Resurrection is shown in the central resurrection cross above the altar. Pentecost is represented in the baptismal font base, which points toward all cardinal directions.
Address:
Kirkkotie 10, 72210 Tervo