Heddal Stave Church

While we were in Oslo for Zone Conference, we took a preparation day trip to visit the largest Stave Church in Norway.  A Stave Church (or Stav Kirke) is made out of wood from the early Christian years.  You can read more about this one HERE.  Norway's largest stave church built in the 1200s and is still in use. Rose paintings from 1600's, "bishop's chair" and incence vessels from mediavel times are still present. Heddal stave church, a masterwork of wood, is the largest of the 28 stave churches in Norway today.  Around the year 1250 the apse was expanded as it is today. Ore-pine from the woods in Heddal, beautiful carved portals and inventory are found.  It is also interesting that you find references to the Norse Gods in these churches, because the people weren't willing to give up all their traditions and adopt Christianity without "offending" the Gods.

The best part of the day was spending it with Elder Garlick from Texas and Elder McCourt from Utah. 

 

Elder McCourt and Elder Garlick