How many stories could these walls tell? The Church of Sweden in Brussels stands before us. It is a beacon of Swedish faith and culture in the heart of Belgium. Let’s step inside and uncover its history.
The Church of Sweden is part of the Church of Sweden Abroad. This institution has over 40 parishes worldwide. They are mainly in Western Europe. Around 80 more cities receive visits from Swedish clergy.
The first Church of Sweden parish abroad was in Paris in 1626. King Louis XIII allowed a Swedish pastor to serve Swedish and German soldiers. These soldiers fought in his army. This Paris congregation grew. It established Swedish schools and a hospice. For centuries, it served as the Swedish embassy church.
Until 1988, the rector was also an embassy official. Today, the Swedish Sofia Parish is one of the largest. It is named after Queen Sofia of Nassau. Karin Burstrand was the first female rector. She later became the dean of Gothenburg Cathedral.
In 2012, the Church of Sweden Abroad underwent restructuring. It gained a governing council and seats on the General Synod. This gave it features of a diocese. However, it still lacks a bishop. The Bishop of Visby provides episcopal oversight. The restructuring also involved staff reviews. There was a 25% staff reduction. The locations of overseas parishes were reviewed. Some parishes closed. New parishes opened in Europe and Asia.
Historically, the Church of Sweden Abroad mainly employed priests. Lay workers such as pastoral assistants and musicians supported them. In 2011, the church decided to employ ordained deacons. These deacons would focus on social care and outreach. This is common in Sweden but new for overseas parishes.
The Archbishop’s 2011 report noted the historic decision to create deacon posts. These posts strengthen parish welfare. They ensure the parish serves its members well. The decision followed a careful study.
Today, the Church of Sweden in Brussels continues to serve its community. It offers a place of worship and connection for Swedes abroad. It also welcomes visitors from all backgrounds. It shares Swedish culture and traditions with the wider world.
As we stand here, remember the long history of the Church of Sweden. It started with missionary work in Sweden around AD 1000. St Ansgar was the first archbishop of Hamburg. He was known as the Apostle of Scandinavia. The Reformation in Sweden began in 1527. King Gustav Vasa introduced it. The Church of Sweden became Lutheran in 1593.
The Church of Sweden is an Evangelical Lutheran national church. It was once the state church. Today, it is a faith community. It embraces the whole country. Every part has a local parish church. About 70 percent of Swedish people are baptized in the church. Around 50 percent are confirmed. The church marries about the same percentage. About 90 percent are buried with a Church of Sweden service.
The Church of Sweden has a rich history of faith and service. It is active in international diaconal and missionary work. It cooperates with various organizations. These include the Lutheran World Federation and the World Council of Churches. Volunteers in Sweden raise millions each year for this work.
The Church of Sweden in Brussels embodies this spirit. It is a welcoming place. It continues to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of its community. It connects Swedes with their heritage. It also builds bridges with people from all nations.