Stavanger Lutheran Celebrates 200 Years of Norwegian Heritage

Published

1 week ago

9 October, 2025

Editorial

UPDATE: Stavanger Lutheran Church in Seneca hosted a vibrant Norwegian Heritage worship service on October 5, drawing in 150 guests to celebrate 200 years of Norwegian immigration to the Fox Valley. This special bilingual service, conducted in both Norwegian and English, emphasized community and cultural heritage.

Led by retired pastors Rev. Al Bergh and Rev. Larry Welin, the service featured traditional Norwegian songs performed by the Stavanger Sunday School children and the Norway Heritage Choir, under the direction of Judy Watters. The poignant theme of the event was “Takk for Alt” (Thanks for Everything), resonating deeply with attendees and honoring their rich cultural lineage.

Stavanger Lutheran Church, located at 2904 N. 32nd Road in rural Seneca, is affiliated with the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ. The church holds Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. from September through May and 9:30 a.m. from June through August, with Sunday School sessions at 9:15 a.m. during the school year. Currently, the church is guided by Interim Pastor Jennifer Bennet.

This celebratory weekend was made possible through the support of local organizations, including the Sons of Norway Polar Star and Cleng Peerson Lodges, the Slooper Society of America, and the Norsk Museum, as well as the village of Norway.

Attendees expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to connect with their heritage through music, worship, and fellowship, making it a memorable occasion for all involved. The event highlights the ongoing relevance of cultural celebrations within local communities and brings together generations to honor their shared history.

As communities across the globe continue to celebrate their unique heritages, Stavanger Lutheran Church’s event serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural identity and community spirit. Next, local residents can look forward to future events that foster unity and cultural appreciation, keeping the spirit of Norwegian heritage alive for years to come.