Scan Magazine

By Emelie Krugly

The Norwegian Church, St Olav’s in Rotherhithe, London, is a popular hub for the Nowegian expat society in London. Every week, around 100 Norwegians turn up for the Sunday ceremony and the following traditional waffles, home-made cakes and coffee.

But the rest of the week is also full of events, with mother and toddler groups, a ladies’ club, Saturday School and much more, and still more comes along as we close in on Christmas, including the popular Christmas Fair.

Christmas Celebrations
Christmas is eagerly anticipated at the Norwegian church and preparations have already begun. “Christmas is a strong tradition for Norwegians and has a big impact on our lives,” says Rector and Senior Chaplain, Torbjørn Holt. The Christmas services therefore have a very high attendance and on Christmas Eve there are two services: one at 11 am in Esher and one at 3pm in the Church followed by a traditional Christmas dinner.
Other events gearing up for Christmas include Remembrance Day on November 8 and a Christmas concert on December 5.

History and mission
There has been a Norwegian church in London since the late 17th century; the current church building, St Olav’s, however, was consecrated in 1927, its foundation stone being laid by Crown Prince Olav (later King Olav V of Norway).
Today, Torbjørn Holt spends much of his time on the move both in London and around the rest of the UK visiting offices, homes, Norwegian networking events and students.
“My vision is for the church to be seen as a home where the community meet, we have an open house six days a week,” he stresses.

Facts about the Norwegian Church
25,000 people visit the church every year
2,500 people visit the annual Christmas Bazaar
The priests are travelling around the country giving services in the following cities:
Aberdeen, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Middlesbrough and Newcastle
The congregation is part of the Church of Norway through Sjømannskirken (The Norwegian Church Abroad)
Nearest tube stations: Bermondsey or Canada Water
For more details visit www.sjomannskirken.no/london

The Norwegian Church’s annual Christmas Fair takes place Friday, November 20 from 11am- 6pm, Saturday, November 21 from 10am-5pm and Sunday, November 22 from 12.30pm-5pm at 1 St Olav’s Square London, SE16 7JB