A total of 59 churches across Norway, including 17 in the Agder region, have applied for financial assistance from the Church Preservation Fund to address urgent maintenance needs.

Among these is the Trefoldighetskirken in Arendal, where significant structural issues have been reported, with bricks falling from both the interior and exterior walls.

The Norwegian government has established a 10 billion kroner fund to prevent the deterioration of these historic buildings, with 100 million kroner allocated for this year and plans to increase to 500 million annually.

The fund aims to support all protected and listed churches, regardless of ownership, as part of a broader preservation strategy.

The initiative is crucial for maintaining these cultural landmarks, which serve as vital community centers for both joyous and solemn occasions.