Scan Magazine

By Emelie Krugly

With events such as Senior Lunches, Young in London evenings and Open House for parents and young children, there is no doubt that the Swedish Church in London has a very diverse congregation.

Actually there are two Swedish churches in London: the Swedish Church in Ulrika Elonora Church in Harcourt Street, and the the Swedish Seamen’s Church in Lower Road, and both have plenty of events to help you find the Christmas spirit.

Christmas celebrations
Among the highlights of Christmas is, of course, the church’s festive Christmas Fair. Another is the Lucia celebration at St Paul’s Cathedral on December 11, where the Ulrika Eleonora choir will perform. But there are many more events and services before and during Christmas, including a “julbord/smörgåsbord” on December 24 and an early morning Christmas Service on the 25th in the Seamen’s church. And it does not stop at there: on January 17 there is the traditional Julgransplundring party for children where Christmas decorations are excitably plundered from the tree and the three thrown out!

History and mission
Rector Michael Persson says he would like the Swedish church, which has been established in London for almost 300 years, to be seen as a home from home for those newer to the city. A Swedish home at its best where all who visit are recognised and welcomed. He therefore encourages people who visit the church to try to recognise God in the world around them and  not be afraid of making contact with new people:
“We will learn something about everyday life if we are brave enough to expose ourselves to relationships with other people.”

Facts about the Swedish Church:
-    The Swedish Church in London has 135-000 visitors every year
During the Lucia celebration The Church has between 7,000-8,000 visitor
Around 6,000 visitors are due to visit the Christmas Bazaar.
The nearest Underground station is Edgware Road on the Circle Line or Marylebone
on the Bakerloo or Jubilee lines
For more idetails visit: www.swedishchurch.com

The Swedish Christmas Fair takes place on November 19 from 11am-20pm, November 21 from 11am-18pm and November 22 from 13pm-17pm at Ulrika Eleonora Church,  6-11 Harcourt Street, London, W1H 4AG