October 2006

I write these words less than two weeks after we (my wife Karin, our son, Andreas and I) arrived in the USA and Minneapolis. We are overwhelmed by the open and kind way the Mindekirken has received us; so many "welcomes", hugs, handshakes, "glad you are here" and so on. I thank the Call Committee, the Church Council and the whole congregation for the confidence you have shown me, your hospitality to us, all the practical help we have received concerning our move, - and for your warm hearts!

In contrast, the way your authorities receive the newcomers, is not so friendly. We still have to wait some weeks before we get our social security numbers. Which is very problematic, as almost everything we need, is dependent on that, like purchasing a car, buying cell phones, getting a bank account, buying insurance, application for membership in ELCA Pension Program etc. Also, the road to getting our visas was a bit exhausting. Anyway, we are glad to be here now!

We have decided to settle in the nice area of St Anthony Village, where we have found a good High School for Andreas, and only a 10 minute drive to the church.

On Sunday September 10th, the bishop of Minneapolis’ representative, Reverend David Wangaard installed me as the pastor of The Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church. The ceremony of installation was accompanied by the words from Paul to Timothy: "Till I come, attend to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have.." These words were also present in my home church in Brattvaag, at my ordination on June 29th 1980, and together with the laying on of hands, it reminded me of that significant day in my life, more than 26 years ago.

A special part of the American Lutheran liturgy of installation, that we lack in Norway, is the little "journey" when the church council leader and the minister escort the new pastor to the font, to the pulpit and to the altar, reminding him about his tasks in the church, baptizing, teaching, forgiving sins, proclaiming the good news, leading worship and presiding at the Holy Communion.

On its own, this is a huge task! I really feel humble at the start of my ministry among you. I think your Sunday Service liturgy is very nice, but I’m not used to it, so please be patient with me! I have never ministered in English before, and I’m afraid I have to excuse the slow speed and many mistakes in the beginni ng.Don’t be afraid to correct me, or else there will be no improvement. Thank you, and God bless you all!

The Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church ·  924 E. 21st St, Minneapolis, MN 55404-2952 ·  (612)874-0716