Remembering the past to shape the future
(LWI) - A thousand years ago, in 1024, a Christian law code was adopted in Norway. Later known as Kristenretten, this Christian law was introduced by King Olav II, later known as Saint Olav. Introducing the law code marked a vital step in the Christianization and nation-building in Norway.
Under the theme “Celebrate the past, shape the future,” the Church of Norway marked this anniversary from 24 May to 2 June in Moster on the southwestern coast of Norway. The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) was represented by its president, Bishop Henrik Stubkjær, and the Regional Secretary for Europe, Rev. Dr Ireneusz Lukas.
The introduction of Christian law installed values of the Christian faith in society, such as that every human being is created in the image of God and meant that conflicts should be resolved through law and justice, not by revenge, explained Olav Fykse Tveit, Presiding Bishop of the Church of Norway. The new law also strengthened the rights of women, children and the poor.
“It is important to celebrate that we have thousand years of Christianity in Norway, and a thousand years of Christianity has shown us how to live together as a society,” Fykse Tveit said. “Our values are constantly challenged, both in Norway and internationally. It challenges us to consider what we should stand for as a church and a country built on Christian and humanistic values.”
Traditionally, the relationship between church and state has been very close in Norway. Christian III introduced the Reformation in 1537. The Lutheran doctrine became a state religion, which only ended in 2017.
