Crown Princess Victoria faces criticism over funeral prayer delivery

Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden has faced criticism following her role in the funeral of King Harald V of Norway at Oslo Cathedral. During the service, Victoria was tasked with reciting the Prayer of Saint Francis.

The Norwegian Christian newspaper Vårt Land criticized her performance, suggesting she lacked “liturgical awareness” because she frequently looked up at the congregation rather than down at the text or toward heaven. The publication argued that those accustomed to church services would notice this deviation from traditional prayer etiquette.

However, the criticism was met with strong defense from Court Pastor Michael Bjerkhagen. Speaking to the newspaper Dagen, Bjerkhagen dismissed the critiques as “silly” and “narrow-minded.” He argued that God is not less present simply because she looked at the congregation, stating, “You cannot limit God to one direction.” He further asserted that the Crown Princess is well-versed in church conduct.