Introduction

On 20 June 2026 Bishop Fredrik Hansen blessed a new Catholic shrine in the Church of St John, Oslo. The shrine is dedicated to Mary, Mother of Persecuted Christians and offers a dedicated place of prayer for Catholics worldwide who face danger for their faith. The dedication follows a proposal from Fr. Benedict Kiely and joins an emerging network of similar shrines in New York, London, Stockholm, Astana, and Qaraqosh.

Purpose and Global Connection

The Oslo shrine holds an Eleusa‑style icon of Mary with an Aramaic inscription that reads “Mary, Mother of Persecuted Christians.” Its primary aim is to bring the global Catholic community together in prayer for the estimated 338 million Christians who suffer persecution. Bishop Hansen explained that praying for those who are threatened is a concrete expression of faith, echoing Christ’s call to intercede for one another.

Beyond prayer, the shrine serves as a focal point for collaboration with organizations that support persecuted believers. Shortly after the inauguration, Fr. Kiely and several Norwegian NGOs held a panel discussion, laying the groundwork for ongoing partnership and material assistance.

Norway’s Growing Catholic Presence

Although Norway is one of Europe’s most secular nations, its Catholic population is rapidly diversifying. The parish of St John includes members from more than 180 countries, many of whom have personal experience of religious intolerance in places such as Poland, Lithuania, Vietnam, Nigeria, Myanmar, and India. Bishop Hansen, a former papal diplomat in Vienna, highlighted that his work with international human‑rights bodies revealed the scale of anti‑Christian violence, reinforcing his commitment to the shrine.

The inauguration coincides with a noticeable rise in interest among young Norwegians raised outside Christianity. Local introductory courses now attract thirty or more participants, drawn by the Church’s clear teaching, reverent liturgy, and the witness of believers who endure persecution.

Conclusion

By establishing the shrine in Oslo, Bishop Hansen links a vibrant local Catholic community with a worldwide network of prayer centers dedicated to the persecuted Church. The shrine not only offers a spiritual refuge but also encourages material advocacy, solidarity, and a renewed sense of purpose for Catholics in Norway and beyond.