Statement from the Network of Churches in the North Calotte
“Hope in a troubled world”
We, representatives of Lutheran, Orthodox and Catholic churches and dioceses in northern Norway, Sweden and Finland, meet at a time marked by war, uncertainty and growing divisions. In our communities we encounter fear for the future, declining trust between people, and a sense that peace can no longer be taken for granted. At the same time, we see a deep longing for meaning, hope and belonging.
As followers of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace and King of Glory, who said “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” (John 14:27), we affirm that peace is both a gift from God and a calling for all God's people. We join the worldwide church in the Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation and Unity, seeking to transform fear, injustice and violence into trust, community and hope.
Peace is more than the absence of war. It is the biblical vision of shalom and the Sámi understanding of ráfi/ráffe/ráfie/ráfi/ráávhu/rääuh/ráfe/raeffie: right relationships with God, one another and the whole of creation. Therefore, the churches’ mission for peace extends beyond security concerns alone. Peace is built through truth, justice, participation, solidarity and respect for the inherent dignity of every human being.
We are concerned by the ways fear, disinformation, polarization and dehumanization are spreading in our societies. We are called to create safe spaces where people can meet across differences, speak honestly about their concerns, and rediscover one another as neighbours. We commit ourselves to standing for truth, resisting hatred and falsehood, and strengthening trust within our communities.
In times of crisis, churches also have a responsibility to contribute to the resilience of society. Through worship, prayer, pastoral care, diaconal service, music, culture and community life, we seek to nurture hope, strengthen human dignity and help people walk through difficult times together. We are especially committed to children and young people, who need communities of belonging, purpose and hope.
In a troubled world, we confess the hope of the Gospel. We believe in the God who became one of us and who continues to reconcile and renew all things. Therefore, we renew our commitment to be peacemakers in the North Calotte: to walk together, pray together and act together for justice, reconciliation and peace.
Narvik, 18–19 August 2026
Network of Churches in the North Calotte