Also, since many of them do not speak Norwegian at home, their understanding of the language can be very limited, during the first years in the country. Classes are held on Saturdays. After a break for refreshments we all gather in the church, parents too, for an afternoon family Mass at which the children take an active part. The main service of the week is the High Mass at 11 a.m. on Sunday, when there are about 30 - 50 people present, including quite a few children. Members of the congregation gather in the parish meeting-room to enjoy coffee and biscuits and a good chat.
Parishioners can exchange news and plan any forthcoming activities.
For some it is a welcome break before starting on the long jouney home. Not least, it provides the ideal opportunity to welcome any newcomers, and help them become better aquainted. It has been an enriching experience to watch the parish grow, and to work together with people from other cultures and language groups, who share a common Faith and want to practise it in Norway.