Scandinavian Catholics debate handling new conversions

Catholic communities in Scandinavia are discussing how to manage an increase in new converts following a rise in interest in the faith. Ragnhild Aadland Høen, public affairs officer for the Council of Catholic Bishops in Norway, reported that the Church is seeing a significant rise in adult initiation courses and confirmations. She noted that some young people are turning to the faith after experiences with pagan and New Age practices.

In Oslo, Bishop Fredrik Hansen marked World Mission Sunday on October 18 by revealing plans for the first synod in his diocese dedicated to evangelical needs and challenges.

Nik Bredholt, parish council chairman at St. Ansgar’s Cathedral in Copenhagen, said that while growth is not as pronounced as in Norway or Sweden, many people are discovering the Church through the internet. Bredholt stated that the Church is working to ensure converts understand Catholic teaching and are not joining simply to make a conservative or counter-cultural statement.