Helsingborg, Sweden
While we were in Helsingborg, we wanted to check out the large local church, Sankta Maria Kyrka (Church of St. Mary). Sankta Maria Kyrka has been part of Helsingborg for many centuries; the church in its current form was constructed around 1450. The church has had a fascinating history, beginning as a Catholic church in Denmark, then converting to Lutheranism during the Reformation, and then becoming part of Sweden through the changes that persist to this day. Through those changes, the Church of St. Mary has been the site of christenings, baptisms, holidays, worship services, weddings, and funerals for many generations of Helsingborg residents. Since we arrived after 5:00, I thought we would only see the statue of St. Mary and the exterior of the building. However, on a whim, I tried the church’s front door, and it was open.
We walked in the front door, thinking we might briefly see the inside of the church and then move on to somewhere else in the city. What we did not expect inside was a party. Young people were in the church’s interior, checking out the various games and other stations. After a bit, we figured out that we were part of a confirmation party, and our visit was open to all young people interested in beginning the confirmation process. It was surprising to see the old church come alive with games and laughter.
We continued through the church, checking out the rest of the interior before walking out onto the lawn at the side of the church. It was here that we saw a live band and a football dartboard. Overall, young people began gathering around and taking the next step in their religious life. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and our party crashing was taken in stride.
My whole life, I have heard people in the United States talk about how the people of Europe have become Godless and that we need to save Christianity or it will no longer exist. My experience in Sweden showed me firsthand that the church is the people, and I was glad to see laughter, music, joy, and games as these teenagers made the commitment to take their faith to the next level. The Christian Church grew for hundreds of years despite the Roman Empire, and God does not concern himself with human governments. What I saw that sunny afternoon in Helsingborg was a community passing on its Christian faith to its youth. It made me happy to see the building supporting the church’s growth. Many times, Christians confuse the building with the congregation. It warmed my heart to crash the confirmation party to see God’s work in real time.
