Norwegian Seamen’s Churches to show King Harald’s funeral live

Norwegian Seamen’s Churches around the world will open their doors so people abroad can watch King Harald V’s funeral together. Most of the churches will show the live broadcast, with especially large gatherings expected in Copenhagen, Stockholm and London.

Sissel Myklebust Mæland, communications chief at the Seamen’s Church, said many students had attended during the period of mourning. The churches plan to offer broadcasts and opportunities for people to meet both before and after the ceremony.

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We have seen during the period of mourning that many students are among those who come to the church.

“Many people seek out the Seamen’s Churches when major events take place,” Mæland said. She added that this also happens on important days such as Norway’s Constitution Day and Christmas Eve, when Norwegians abroad feel especially connected to their home country.

Most Seamen’s Churches have recently held special memorial services. The organization has 28 buildings around the world. King Harald’s funeral is scheduled to begin at Oslo Cathedral at 1 p.m. on Wednesday.

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Many people seek out the Seamen’s Churches when major events take place. This also applies to important days such as May 17 and Christmas Eve. Norwegians abroad are very Norwegian then.