The Church of Norway Issues Historic Apology to the LGBTQ+ Community
In a significant moment for Norway’s LGBTQ+ community, the Church of Norway has formally apologized for its historical discrimination and condemnation of queer individuals. This landmark statement, described as both historic and crucial by LGBT+ organizations, has also been met with reflections of delayed remorse for those who have suffered due to the church’s past attitudes.
The church has undergone a transformation in its views over the years, yet challenges remain, particularly for transgender individuals. This apology marks a pivotal step towards reconciliation, with queer advocacy groups expressing hope that it will lead to actionable measures for enhancing inclusivity and safety within the church.
In recent years, the Church of Norway has engaged in numerous discussions with LGBTQ+ individuals and advocacy groups. Chief Bishop Olav Fykse Tveit articulately expressed gratitude for the warm reception from those the church once condemned. “It is generous when those who previously felt condemned by the church have welcomed us with open arms. It is grace,” he noted during the press conference held at the London Pub in Oslo.
Drawing from biblical teachings, Tveit emphasized the church’s mission to foster fellowship, acknowledging that it has repeatedly failed to live up to this calling. “The Bible tells of people who were able to meet Jesus, who resurrected them and demonstrated what fellowship means. It’s our task as Christians, and yet we have failed all too often,” he lamented.
Reflecting on the unfortunate consequences of the church’s past rhetoric, Stephen Adom, leader of the LGBTQ+ rights organization FRI (Foreningen for kjønns- og seksualitetsmangfold), expressed the bittersweet nature of the apology. “This is a historic and vital day for queer individuals in Norway and across the globe. However, it comes too late for many,” he stated poignantly, highlighting those who succumbed to the AIDS epidemic amid a climate of fear instigated by the church’s teachings.
The archbishop’s remarks touched on this dark chapter, wherein HIV and AIDS were mischaracterized as divine punishment for homosexuality, contributing to the stigma faced by countless individuals. “Some of the individuals who should have heard our apology are no longer with us,” Tveit reflected, acknowledging that for many, the church’s spaces still do not feel secure.
Acknowledging the Past
The Church of Norway’s journey towards inclusivity has been fraught with conflict. In a notable shift, the church agreed in 2016 to allow all couples to marry within its sanctuaries after two decades of debate. This followed a period where queerness was labeled a “societal danger of global proportions” during the Bishops’ Conference in the 1950s.
Tveit articulated the importance of acknowledging past wounds, stating, “It’s about saying sorry because of what has happened and been said. As we accept, it has hurt, damaged, and brought shame.”
In expressing the church’s commitment to change, Hanne Marie Pedersen Eriksen, chair of the Skeivt Christian network and a priest, welcomed the timing of the apology amid increasing pressure on queer individuals from conservative factions. “The bishops set an admirable example to follow,” she remarked.
Looking Forward
With this apology, the chief bishop underscored that the church must embrace its LGBTQ+ members actively. “We must accept each other and create an environment where everyone’s gifts and abilities can flourish,” he asserted.
Stephen Adom highlighted that the LGBTQ+ community has high hopes for the actions that will follow this apology. “This marks a significant step toward creating measures that ensure a better future for queer individuals,” he said, even as he acknowledged the tardiness of the response.
As the crown prince and princess attended an evening mass at Oslo Cathedral to honor this occasion, the church began to weave healing into its fabric. “Today commits us to continue this journey and to determine how we can effect change moving forward,” Tveit said, emphasizing the need for a progressive path ahead.
In the shadows of a tragic past, this apology represents a long-overdue recognition of harms endured, inviting a future of reconciliation and inclusive community within the Church of Norway.
Published: October 16, 2025 | Updated: October 17, 2025