Scan Magazine

By Signe Hansen

The Scandinavian churches in London are not just about sermons and psalms. No, they actually host an array of events and activities which many may find provide comfort for both body and soul, especially around Christmas time.

When living as an expatriate in the UK, many miss some of their home country’s traditions and customs especially around the holidays. One way of dealing with the yearnings for home is to visit one of the Scandinavian churches. All four churches, or some of their connected associations, have annual Christmas bazaars and fairs where guests can buy a lot of the traditional Scandinavian Christmas goodies, crafts and decorations. As anyone who has visited will know, the bazaars are hugely popular and therefore an excellent way to catch up with your respective Scandinavian society while browsing around in the sweet smell of Christmas and enjoying the many treats on offer

But there is also a more serious side to the churches’ work as Christmas is a time where many feel lonely or isolated and seek consolation at the church. Popular Christmas ceremonies are held at all the churches and are gathering points for many homesick Scandinavians, who find comfort in the traditional Scandinavian church rituals and solidarity with fellow church goers.

Read more:

The Danish Church – “Serious and Modern”

The Norwegian Church – “Where the community meet”

The Swedish Church – “A Home From Home”

The Finnish Church – “like a Finnish living room”