Speech given by HM King Harald at Sjømannskirken, The Norwegian Church Abroad. in Antwerpen during a state visit to Belgium, May 2003.
22. mai 2003
Your Majesties,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is always a great pleasure to visit Norwegian seaman’s churches around the world and to meet with Norwegian comunities. It is therfore a highligt for us to be here today together with Their Majesties King Albert and Queen Paola.
Being the oldest of the Norwegian seaman’s churches, the Antwerp church has been a haven for Norwegians for more than 130 years. With its easily recognizable steeple and location close to the harbour, it has attracted thousands of Norwegian seamen throughout the years and helped to meet their social and spiritual needs.
Today I understand that the number of Norwegian seamen is smaller, and the time they spend in port is shorter. But for those carrying on the Norwegian seafaring tradition, the seaman’s church is as important as ever. With fewer Norwegians on board each ship, the need for contact with fellow countrymen is perhaps even more important than before.
Nowadays the parish of this church extends far beyond the port of Antwerp. Its parishioners include the increasing number of Norwegians working and studying in Belgium, tourists and lorry-drivers. I have heard that there are many examples of Norwegian lorry-drivers making long diversions in order to spend a few hours at the church.
As for myself, I have been fortunate enough to visit Norwegian seaman’s churches all over the world. Here in Antwerp I have been on two previous occasions. Every time I enter one of these churches I am immediately conscious of the atmosphere of tradition and togetherness – reinforced by the delicious smell of coffee and freshly made waffles.
The Norwegian Seaman’s Church is a meeting place for all kinds of people in all kinds of situations. It unites Norwegians abroad. At the same time it unites Norwegians with the citizens of other countries. Mixed marriages, language courses and a variety of social activities speaks for itself and are good examples of this bilateral diplomacy.
The basis for the work of the Seaman’s Church is to be there on ordinary people’s premises. It is a place for forgiveness, reflection and hope. It encourages us to exploit our full potential to the benefit of ourselves - and others.
On behalf of the Queen and myself, I would like to wish you all the best in your important service. Thank you also for this opportunity to meet all of you. Enjoy your fellowship, and enjoy yor stay in this great country!
Hjertelig takk for at vi fikk komme hit til Sjømannskirken og møte dere alle. Vi ønsker dere lykke til i arbeidet og håper dere får noen gode år her i Belgia!