The Church of Norway is an Evangelical-Lutheran church, and the largest Christian church in Norway.
History
Christianity became the state religion of Norway around year 1020, under the rule of King Olav Haraldsson. The year 2030 is the anniversary of the death of Olav Haraldsson in 1030. He was declared St. Olav after his death, becoming the patron saint of Norway. The Lutheran reformation in Denmark-Norway took place in 1536-37, and Church of Norway has since been an Evangelical-Lutheran church.
Facts and Figures
3,451,288 members, which is 61,7% oft he Norwegian population, as of 2024. The number of parishes is 1146, covering the whole country. The number of positions in pastoral ministry is 1290, diaconal minsitry is 324, Christian education ministry is 686, church music ministry is 944. In addition there is a large number of administrative and voluntary positions.
Structure & organization
The Church of Norway is both an episcopal church and a synodal church. The 12 bishops are full members of the Synod. The Synod elects a National council to govern the administration of the church in 4-year periods, while the Bishops’ Conference is responsible for overseeing theology and teaching.
Special theological or historical characteristics
The historical background as a former state church puts Church of Norway in a special position as a majority church that has enjoyed certain priveleges. This means that the church has had access to teaching Christianity in schools, influencing policies and culture. No longer a state church these priveleges are rapidly changing, however, the church is still in a majority position among other faith and life stance communities, and carry a rich cultural heritage closely intertwined with Norwegian culture.
Social presence and Role in Society
In addition to offering worship services and Eucharists, baptisms and confirmations, prayers and pastoral care, Church of Norway also offers weddings and funerals all over the country. Church of Norway no longer has a special privelege in public schools, but collaborates closely with schools and cultural institutions locally.
Church of Norway is involved in the running of a number of diaconal institutions, in addition to the diaconal work in the local parishes. The church is an active member of the Christian Council of Norway and the Council of Religious and Life Stance Communities (STL).
Church of Norway is organised geographically throughout the whole country, which gives the church a special responsibility to serve the people of Norway beyond its church membership.This can mean taking an active role in situations of national celebrations or national grief.
Get in touch with the Church of Norway:
Website: Startside kirken.no – Den norske kirke
Social media channels Facebook / Instagram / X . Kirken (@dennorskekirke) / TikTok 5.
Contact person for inquiries: Contact – Church of Norway