Many were interested in the cross of bishop Tor. Outside the main church of Western Synod. Photo: Den norske kirkeDuring the six years since the friendship agreement was signed there have been annual visits between the EECMY Western Synod and the Nidaros diocese. In June and July 2009, a group of six young Norwegians visited EECMY, bringing with them Norwegian song and music. The 2010 visit, however, was the first time a Nidaros bishop visited the Ethiopian church.
The bishop and his company travelled from Addis Ababa to Ambo, Gimbi and Bodji, with their main stay in the Bodji and Nedjo areas. On his way home, the bishop also got to see Kamachi in the Blue Nile Valley.
The purpose of the relationship between the two churches as formulated in the Friendship Agreement:
“Through this agreement we wish to share our Christian faith and life. We will promote friendship and the mutual understanding of our two cultures and ways of life, and so inspire each other to fulfil the commission given to our churches.
Bishop Tor and Synod Priest Ephrem in friendly conversation. Photo: Den norske kirke- We want to increase the mutual understanding and love between different churches
- We want to share information, spiritual incitements and experiences, which may enrich, develop and renew life in our churches
- We want to underline the necessity of the missionary commission given to the Church”
Read more:
Norwegian bishop visits Ethiopia
På besøk til Nidaros´ vennskapskirke i Etiopia (Church of Norway website, 30 August 2009)