King Olav II walked along the shores of this small Norwegian island. He knew that he was about to change the nation forever. The king was heading to adopt the famous Kristenretten, the Christian Law. The year 2024 marks the 1000th anniversary of this momentous event that became the end of slavery.

Good Friday, the 7th of April, 1724. Johann Sebastian Bach had just finished leading the first performance of his “Passio secundun Joannem”, the St. John Passion. Very likely, he felt relieved, knowing the group he had to work with. Little did he know that his oratorio would be sung around the world 300 years later.

In Norway, many streets and squares are named after Hans Nielsen Hauge. The evangelist is part of the national heritage. Today, many Christians remember the 200th death anniversary. Cédric Placentino reflects on his historical meaning.