This morning I finally add it to church! My friend Tomas met me and we walked to the church for the service at 11am. Altogether there were about 27 people in attendance. Tomas and I were by far the youngest ones there.
Of course the service was in Norwegian, but I could understand a good chunk of it. It only became difficult when the pastor read scripture because I don't know a lot of those "big bible words" in Norwegian.
Figuring out differences of the dialect can also be a challenge. Things will be pronounced or spelled differently, but most often it is similar enough that one can figure it out. Listening to the people singing the hymns was a very helpful and a forgiving way to learn pronunciations by hearing and practice saying the words. Though it was not the kind of church or service I'd attend in Tacoma, I think I will keep going. Even if I don't understand everything being said all the time there is still a sense of community and oneness that breaks through the language barrier.
Of course the service was in Norwegian, but I could understand a good chunk of it. It only became difficult when the pastor read scripture because I don't know a lot of those "big bible words" in Norwegian.
Figuring out differences of the dialect can also be a challenge. Things will be pronounced or spelled differently, but most often it is similar enough that one can figure it out. Listening to the people singing the hymns was a very helpful and a forgiving way to learn pronunciations by hearing and practice saying the words. Though it was not the kind of church or service I'd attend in Tacoma, I think I will keep going. Even if I don't understand everything being said all the time there is still a sense of community and oneness that breaks through the language barrier.
For those who can read music, see if you recognize this tune we sang today
I had mentioned before about joining the church choir, but sadly it's not going to work out. I guess their choir doesn't sing regularly at the church. They are practicing now for a soul/gospel music concert and the night of the performance is the same day I'll be flying to Austria for spring break. I was disappointed but am still searching for other opportunities. I've been lucky to have opportunities to sing and play guitar here in Bø. Still, I don't know what it is about -i don't know what to call it, I want to say "real singing" but that sounds kinda jerky since technically when I sing with my guitar its real singing....maybe proper/classical singing? Whatever. Anyways, I miss real singing. Last week we had a professor give my class a lecture on folk music. I asked her about opportunities in the area and expressed my disappointment for not being able to find anything at all to be a part of. She was wonderful and emailed me some info, including a folk music meeting tomorrow night! I am not quite sure what it entails, but I am definitely excited about it! I'll report to you all about it.
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. Now that more things are starting to happen I will be posting more! Much love to you all!
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. Now that more things are starting to happen I will be posting more! Much love to you all!