On January 18, 2025, St. Olav’s Cathedral in Oslo became the site of an important event for the Catholic community in Norway as Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, ordained Frederik Hansen as the new Bishop of Oslo.

Hansen, a 45-year-old prelate, takes over from Bishop Bernt Ivar Eidsvig, who led the diocese for nearly two decades.

A New Leader for Norway’s Diverse Catholic Community

Frederik Hansen, who chose the episcopal motto “Lex tua veritas” – meaning “Your law is truth” – is tasked with leading a Catholic community that is increasingly diverse in a predominantly Lutheran country.

Hansen has spent years serving in the Vatican’s diplomatic service, working closely with Cardinal Parolin until 2022.

Now, Hansen’s leadership will be key in guiding Norway’s Catholic community, which reflects a multicultural population with growing numbers of Catholics from various countries.

A Reflection on the Role of a Bishop

In his sermon during the ordination, Cardinal Parolin emphasized the essential duty of a bishop: unceasing prayer and invoking the Holy Spirit.

Parolin reflected on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, stressing that bishops must remain open and receptive to its action, just as the Apostles did.

The cardinal also took a moment to acknowledge the dedicated service of Bishop Eidsvig, who led the diocese for almost 20 years.

From Diplomat to Diocesan Leader

Frederik Hansen’s journey to becoming the Bishop of Oslo is rooted in his personal and spiritual growth.

Born in Drammen, Norway, to Lutheran parents, Hansen converted to Catholicism at age 20 and was later ordained as a priest by Bishop Eidsvig.

His path took him through theological studies in Rome and a career in the Vatican’s diplomatic service.

In 2022, he became part of the Sulpician order, and last year, Pope Francis appointed him as coadjutor bishop, with the intention of making him Eidsvig’s successor.

A Multicultural Church in Scandinavia

The Catholic Church in Norway, and in Scandinavia as a whole, is becoming increasingly multicultural.

Hansen, who is familiar with the international dynamics of the Church, shared that the Cathedral Parish in Oslo hosts Masses in 11 languages, a testament to the rich diversity within the community.

He highlighted the presence of large groups of Polish, Lithuanian, Filipino, Vietnamese, African, and Latin American Catholics in the region.

For Hansen, this diversity is a reflection of the universal nature of the Catholic Church, which transcends borders and cultures.

The Blessings of Diversity in the Church

Cardinal Parolin also spoke about the rich diversity within the Church in Norway, noting that Catholics from over 150 countries contribute to the vibrant community.

He described this diversity as both a challenge and a gift from God, creating a unique and unified Church.

The cardinal praised the Church’s efforts in charity and evangelization, especially its outreach to refugees and immigrants.

He also acknowledged the ecumenical spirit of cooperation between the Catholic Church and Lutheran Christians in the region.

Strengthening Relations with Civil Authorities

Before the ordination, Cardinal Parolin met with Norwegian King Harald V and Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

The meetings were described as cordial, with Parolin emphasizing the importance of strengthening the relationship between the Church and the Norwegian government.

Looking Ahead with Hope

Cardinal Parolin concluded his remarks by reflecting on the significance of the upcoming jubilee year of 2025.

He called on the faithful to become “pilgrims of hope” and to pray for peace in regions affected by conflict, such as Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and Sudan.

Parolin urged Catholics to return to the heart of Jesus in this special year of reflection and renewal.

Frederik Hansen’s ordination as Bishop of Oslo marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church in Norway, one that embraces diversity and continues to strengthen its role in the community.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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