More Norwegians contacted church during Covid pandemic
Children in a Norwegian church. Photo Facebook, the Lutheran Church in Norway
Northern Europe
Most Norwegian churches have seen an increase in conversations with individuals during the Covid pandemic.
More people contacted the church to find someone to talk to, the Church of Norway diocese of Oslo told Vart Land. The large majority of the churches (70 per cent) noted an increase in the number of conversations with individuals. Almost half of the congregations saw that number increase by 50 per cent. Several others even talk about a multiplication.
Bishop Kari Veiteberg from Oslo tells Vart Land that the churches experience "a great longing for the church's fellowship." The bishop says that despite the Covid measures that prohibited congregations from gathering, churches "have contributed with talks, food distribution and open churches". According to her, it is nice for people to find a listening ear at the church at a time with long waiting lists for psychological help.
Many of the people that sought contact with the church were men in their 30s, says Veiteberg. She bases her conclusions on a report.
After the Covid measures were abolished, the need for conversations has not decreased. Veiteberg finds that a worrying trend.
Open church
In Norway, more and more churches open their doors outside of regular church services and activities. People can drop to find a quiet place or talk to church workers.
Related Articles
