Norwegian Armed Forces Chaplaincy Corps

The Norwegian Armed Forces Chaplaincy Corps (Norwegian: Forsvarets tros- og livssynskorps, FTLK), formerly known as the Field Chaplaincy Corps (Feltprestkorpset, FPK), is a joint military institution responsible for organizing religious and life-stance services throughout the Norwegian Armed Forces. It is not a commercial brand but a state institution; however, it operates as a distinct organizational entity within Norway's defense structure. The corps provides chaplaincy and life-stance support to military personnel, distributes certified professionals across various units, and ensures that soldiers of different faiths and worldviews have access to appropriate services. The FTLK is staffed by over 50 certified professionals from the Church of Norway and other religious and life-stance communities. These professionals perform services according to their own certification, facilitate other religious and life-stance practices, teach ethics, and provide advice on religious, ethical, and moral questions. Ethics education is a core part of their work: all soldiers in basic training receive instruction in ethics and military power, and ethics is an integrated subject at Norwegian Armed Forces schools. Chaplaincy personnel also conduct conversations with personnel and contribute to veteran care. The corps is headquartered at Akershus Fortress (Building 7) in Oslo, with Akershus Castle Church nearby serving as the main church of the Armed Forces. The church also serves as the royal family's private burial church and is frequently used for weddings. The FTLK is led by the Chief of the Norwegian Armed Forces Chaplaincy Corps, who reports to the Chief of Norwegian Armed Forces Joint Services. Ecclesiastical oversight for field chaplains belonging to the Church of Norway is provided by the Bishop of Oslo. The Field Chaplaincy Corps celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2013, indicating a founding around 1953. As a military institution, the FTLK does not engage in commercial activities, but it plays a vital role in the welfare and ethical education of Norwegian military personnel. Its services are funded by the state and are an integral part of Norway's defense organization.

The Norwegian Armed Forces Chaplaincy Corps (Forsvarets tros- og livssynskorps, FTLK) traces its origins to the Field Chaplaincy Corps (Feltprestkorpset, FPK), which was established in the early 1950s. The corps celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2013, suggesting a founding year of 1953. Initially, the FPK was responsible for providing religious services to military personnel, primarily within the Church of Norway. Over time, its mandate expanded to include other religious and life-stance communities, reflecting the increasing diversity of Norwegian society and the armed forces. In recognition of this broader role, the organization was renamed Forsvarets tros- og livssynskorps (FTLK), emphasizing its commitment to serving personnel of all faiths and life stances. The corps is a joint institution, meaning it operates across all branches of the Norwegian Armed Forces—Army, Navy, Air Force, and Home Guard. Its personnel are integrated into various units, providing services in garrison and field environments. The FTLK is headquartered at Akershus Fortress in Oslo, a historic military site. Akershus Castle Church, located nearby, serves as the main church of the Norwegian Armed Forces and is also the royal family's private burial church. The church is frequently used for weddings and other ceremonies. The corps is led by a chief who reports to the Chief of Norwegian Armed Forces Joint Services. Ecclesiastical oversight for Church of Norway field chaplains is provided by the Bishop of Oslo. The FTLK employs over 50 certified professionals from various religious and life-stance backgrounds. They are responsible for conducting services, facilitating religious practices, teaching ethics, and providing counseling. Ethics education is a significant part of their work, with all soldiers in basic training receiving instruction in ethics and military power. In recent years, the FTLK has continued to adapt to the needs of a diverse military force, including providing support for veterans and their families. Its role remains vital in maintaining the morale and ethical foundation of the Norwegian Armed Forces.

• 2013

  Field Chaplaincy Corps celebrates 60th anniversary.

• 1953

  Field Chaplaincy Corps (Feltprestkorpset) established.

• Renamed to Forsvarets tros- og livssynskorps (FTLK) to reflect broader religious and life-stance mandate.

A state-funded military institution providing chaplaincy and life-stance support, not a commercial brand.

1. 1Forsvarets tros- og livssynskorps - Wikipediano.wikipedia.org
2. 2Norwegian Armed Forces Chaplaincy Corps - Wikidatawikidata.org