Is it really only Tuesday?

To Flamslatt today, a retreat house further north to meet with lots of Swedish clergy to discuss amongst other things Confirmation. In Sweden confirmation is a really big deal. 76% of the population is confirmed as opposed to about 5% in britain. What was even more fascinating was that over half of those coming on a course: which last from September to May were either atheists or agnostics. the aim and content of the course was about faith, it's run by the church, but also about life and service to the community. Young people in Sweden see it as part of the growing up process and part of becoming an adult citizen. The quality of what they are doing looks pretty brilliant with the usual Swedish style and quality. You can't help feeling that quality of community foudn elsewhere on our visit owes something to this commitment to young people. The most common thing that young people valued about the courses was that adults listened to them and respected them.
On a lighter note I have jsut been invited to a cheese board which may be a game, a meal or an interesting architectural feature. I will go and see and no doubt be amazed.