Curious to know where Stockholm’s only Catholic cathedral resides? Saint Eric’s Cathedral stands here on Södermalm. It is a testament to faith and perseverance. Originally built in 1892 Saint Eric’s Cathedral gained cathedral status in 1953. This coincided with the creation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Stockholm. It remains the only Catholic diocese in Sweden.
Saint Eric’s Cathedral is named after Saint Eric. He was a 12th-century Swedish king. He was martyred and later became the patron saint of Stockholm and Sweden. His image appears on Stockholm’s seal and coat of arms.
After World War II Stockholm saw a surge in its Catholic population. This was mainly due to immigration. The original church became too small. Architects Hans Westman and Ylva Lenormand designed an extension. It was inaugurated in 1983 marking 200 years since the Catholic Church’s re-establishment in Sweden. This was after a long period of Lutheran dominance.
The block where Saint Eric’s Cathedral is located includes various functions. These serve the Roman Catholic Church in Sweden.
Inside Saint Eric’s Cathedral you will find an international congregation. Reflecting Stockholm’s diverse population masses are held in several languages. These include Swedish Latin Italian Croatian Spanish and Polish. Saint Eric’s Cathedral also offers special services. A Latin Mass is held on the fourth Saturday of each month. This adheres to pre-1962 liturgical traditions. Rosary devotions follow Saturday Mass. Weekday masses are in Swedish.
The flag of Saint Eric’s Cathedral features yellow and white. These are the clerical colors of Vatican City. Saint Eric’s Cathedral represents the enduring presence of the Catholic Church in Sweden. It provides a welcoming spiritual home for many.