A recent survey conducted among members of the Church of Norway reveals that 25% of respondents do not believe in God, a notable increase from 18% in 2023. This survey is conducted every two years to evaluate the engagement, beliefs, and attitudes of church members. The rise in non-believers suggests that participation in the church may relate more to cultural values rather than religious convictions.

Harald Hegstad, the leader of the Church Council, interprets these findings as indicative of a broader range of motivations for attending church services. Many members express appreciation for the moral values and community that the church provides, even if they do not adhere to the core religious beliefs. Additionally, the survey highlights that 15% of participants consider themselves to be firm believers in God who frequently attend church, demonstrating a clear divide in beliefs among the congregants.

Approximately 6,000 members participated in the survey, which is significant for understanding the evolving landscape of faith and church attendance in Norway. As societal dynamics shift, the Church of Norway may need to address these trends and consider how to engage both believers and non-believers within their community in the future.