Church has a bonus, says our Swedish columnist Julia Boehme. You don’t only have fun with your brothers and sisters. In difficult times, your relationship is even tested. “We have the opportunity to help, learn and forgive.”

How archaic! When I first attended a church service and saw women veiling, I vowed to myself never to do that. Wearing a hat has disappeared in my country. Veils are for Muslims now. But I have learned to see the covering as a shield for which to be grateful.

No sensible person would call me shy. I am always first to volunteer to speak publicly. And yet, I was terrified to enter the church.