Iceland
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Background
Iceland has been inhabited since about the ninth century. Early settlers came
from Norway and established an independent republic with its own constitution
and general assembly, known as the Althing. Later the people of Iceland recognized
the rule of the King of Norway, until 1380. Later rule passed to Denmark for
more than five centuries. Independence was regained in 1918 but it did not
become a totally independent republic until 1944.
Evangelical Lutherans enjoy the majority in Iceland with about 96% of the
population claiming adherence to that faith, most of whom belong to the Church
of Iceland. Roman Catholicism makes up about 3% of the population with all
other faith groups making up the remaining 1%. The Restoration Movement represents
only a minute fraction of that final percentage point. An a cappella Church
of Christ once met in Iceland at or near the military base in Keflavik. Before
1990, a group of about 10 was known to have met in Mahan High School and was
served by Reid Smith. In 2002, as a result of the internet Bible studies of
the World Bible School and World English Institute, two individuals were baptized
in Reykjavik. It was hoped that these individuals would become the groundwork
for a new congregation.
At this time there are no known contacts.
Clinton J. Holloway
National Profiles Editor
World Convention
April 2003
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