The Church of Árnafjørður stands as a strong symbol of local determination. The residents built it through cooperation, patience, and shared responsibility. Today, it remains an important landmark in the Northern Isles.
In August 1932, 46 residents of Árnafjørður sent a petition to the Faroese Parliament (Løgting). They asked for financial support to build a local church. At that time, villagers had to travel to Klaksvík for services. The journey was long and often difficult, especially in harsh weather.
Before submitting the request, the church council secured architectural drawings and a cost estimate. They asked H.C.W. Tórgarð, a master builder from Tórshavn, to prepare the plans.
The design included concrete exterior walls and a wooden interior. The church would seat 100 people, with additional space in the loft and choir.
In September 1933, the church council approved the project. Villagers immediately began preparing the site. They dug foundations and gathered building materials. However, limited funds delayed full construction until parliament granted financial support.
Árnafjørður had only 90 residents at the time. The community therefore adjusted the design to seat 80 people and reduced the number of pews.
Construction officially began in October 1934. Óli Hans Biskupstø led the project as a paid foreman. Many villagers contributed labour and materials. Their joint effort allowed the building to take shape steadily.
By November 1936, workers had completed the structure. In October 1937, carpenter Zacharias Jacobsen and stonemason Óli Arge from Tórshavn inspected the church and gave final approval.
Church leaders consecrated the new church on 10 October 1937. The ship Smyril brought around 50 guests from Tórshavn to the ceremony.
A procession led by the Faroese Provost, the Governor, priests, members of parliament, and other prominent figures walked toward the church. Provost J. Dahl delivered the sermon, marking the completion of a project that reflected unity and perseverance.
Today, the church serves the parish of Árnafjørður. Locals know it as Árnafjarðar kirkja. The building continues to represent faith, resilience, and strong community spirit in the Northern Isles.
Source: J. P. Gregoriussen, “Nýggjaru Kirkjurnar”; Fólkakirkjan
Árnafjarðar kirkja belongs to its own parish (Egin kirkjusókn). The kirkjuráð is chaired by Marjun Lómaklett, with the office located at Prestvegur 7, 700 Klaksvík.
For more information, visit the official Fólkakirkjan page.
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