Norwegian Seamen's Church, San Pedro facts for kids
The Norwegian Seamen's Church (Norwegian: Den norske sjømannskirke) is a special church for Norwegians living or working far from home. It also serves as the Church of Sweden Los Angeles (Swedish: Svenska kyrkan Los Angeles), sometimes called the Swedish Seamen's Church. You can find it in the San Pedro area of Los Angeles, California, at 1035 South Beacon Street. This church is part of the Norwegian Church Abroad and the Church of Sweden Abroad. An architect named Kemper Nomland designed the building.
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What is the Seamen's Church?
The Seamen's Church is a place where people from Norway and Sweden can feel at home, even when they are far away. It's especially important for sailors and others who work in the shipping business. Since it's located in a harbor area, many ships visit nearby. About 160 Norwegian ships come to the area each year, and their crew members often visit the church.
A Welcoming Place for Everyone
This church welcomes around 15,000 visitors every year. Many of these visitors are Norwegians living in Los Angeles or people whose families came from Norway. For many, the church is their closest link to their home country. The church stays in touch with 500 to 1,000 families and sends out a newsletter to about 2,000 families. There's even a school at the church where both kids and adults can learn the Norwegian language!
History of the Church
The Norwegian Seamen's Church was started by Elbjørg Amundsen Baardsen and her husband Sig. It first opened its doors in 1946. In 1951, the church moved to its current home at 1035 South Beacon Street. The building cost about $80,000 to build, which was a lot of money back then!
Sharing with Sweden
Since 1952, the church has also had staff from Sweden. This means it serves both Norwegian and Swedish communities. A Swedish service is held once every month.
Services Offered
The Norwegian Seamen's Church performs many types of Lutheran services. These include baptisms, confirmations, weddings, and funerals. However, the church is open to everyone, not just Lutherans. It's a community hub for anyone who needs support or a connection to Scandinavian culture.
