Since there are English speaking followers to this blog, this is my translation from my post from 14th April 2016, informing that the (Norwegian parliament’s) Storting’s Standing Committee on  Labour and Social Affairs  made a visit to the Norwegian church in Torrevieja (the institution is originally Seamen’s Church). The embassy in Madrid was also represented in this visit, likewise representatives from the consulate in Torrevieja and the Norwegian schools in Rojales and Alfas del Pi. The Norwegian Church was represented by the churches in Albir and Torrevieja. The committee is traveling in Spain to gain an insight of the situation and life of Norwegians living or having their holidays in Spain.

I know this because I was there welcoming them in church today. I am a volunteer at the church, given the task as a church host. I have this task once a week when staying in Torrevieja. The task is simple, but though important; to greet and welcome those who come to the Seamen’s Church. It is natural to have a chat with the visitors, some of them visiting this church for the first time when meeting me. I do my best to let them feel well.

We hope that this parliamentary committee gives the Norwegian Church Abroad the support they deserve. It’s not just religious services held here (70 in 2015), but for example last year a total 38,000 persons were visiting Norwegian church in Torrevieja, and the staff made over 900 visits (hospital, home, prison, business- and other visits), to name a few.

There is always someone there to welcom you when visiting Norwegian Church Abroad, for sure we will be glad to see you.

Perry Saevik