On 7 December, the Peace Cathedral joyfully hosted its annual Norwegian-International Christmas Service, a celebration that has become a deeply cherished tradition in Tbilisi.

Guests were warmly welcomed by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway, Her Excellency Bergljot Hovland, whose steadfast friendship with the Peace Cathedral – and her role as co-host of this year’s service – added a special sense of warmth and significance to the gathering.

The service was led by Bishop Malkhaz Songulashvili in partnership with Reverend Leif Magne Helgesen from the Norwegian Church Abroad, and enriched by the presence and participation of Bishop Rusudan Gotziridze and Bishop Ilia Osepashvili.

Reverend Helgesen delivered a moving and prophetic sermon, reflecting on the values we must hold dear in a world increasingly divided by fear and hatred, he spoke of ongoing wars, and increased oppression of the civil society in Georgia. His message resonated strongly with the congregation, offering both challenge and comfort in equal measure.

The Eucharist was jointly celebrated by the Georgian bishop and the Norwegian priest, symbolising the unity of Christian fellowship across traditions. Those who did not partake in the Eucharist were warmly invited to light candles on the stand beside the altar – an inclusive gesture that allowed everyone to participate in the beautiful moment.

This year’s celebration was further illuminated by the presence of Norwegian artists Hilma and Anna Nikolaisen. Their music – especially Hilma Nikolaisen’s original compositions -infused the service with depth, tenderness, and a quiet sense of wonder. The musical elements of the liturgy were guided with great skill by Georgian composer and conductor Mrs. Nana Munjishvili, whose leadership ensured a seamless integration of voices and instruments. The beauty of the service was further enhanced by the exquisite violin performance of Miss Salome Kurdiani, whose playing added warmth and grace to the atmosphere of worship.

Together, the Georgian and Norwegian clergy led the congregation in singing beloved Christmas carols, hearing readings from the Christmas Story, and joining in moments of collective prayer and reflection. Following the service, guests gathered for coffee, tea, mulled wine, and homemade cookies, sharing fellowship in an atmosphere filled with warmth, joy, and cross-cultural friendship.

A small but vibrant Christmas market filled the Cathedral courtyard, showcasing the artistry of Ukrainian and Georgian craftspeople whose handmade creations added colour, meaning, and a sense of solidarity to the day. Guests were also given guided tours of the Peace Mosque and Peace Synagogue, led by representatives of the Dor L’edor community—Mr. Misha Grishashvili and Mrs. Keti Chikviladze—highlighting the unique interfaith identity that defines the Peace Cathedral.

The service drew a diverse gathering, including ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, international journalists, Georgian students, children, interfaith partners, and many friends of the Peace Cathedral. Their presence transformed the celebration into a truly global expression of goodwill, unity, and shared hope.

What began years ago as a simple Norwegian Christmas service – initiated by the Norwegian Church Abroad and supported by the Norwegian Embassy in Georgia – has steadily grown. It evolved into a Scandinavian service, then a Scandinavian – Baltic gathering, and, thanks to the vision of Her Excellency Bergljot Hovland, has blossomed into the annual Norwegian -International Christmas Service at the Peace Cathedral.

This year’s gathering once again reminded us that the message of Christmas—peace, hope, and the promise of light—shines most brightly when shared across cultures, traditions, and communities.