Frequently Asked Questions: Christianity and the Sami People
What is Christianity and the Sami People?
Christianity among the Sami people refers to the historical and contemporary religious transformation of the indigenous Sami population across northern Scandinavia and Russia. Originally practicing a shamanistic animist faith centered on the deity Bieggolmmái and sacred drums, the Sami were systematically converted to Lutheranism between the 17th and 19th centuries through missionary efforts, forced assimilation policies, and the establishment of mission schools. Today, the majority identify as Christian, though many integrate traditional Sami cultural elements and spiritual perspectives into their faith.
Key facts about Christianity and the Sami People
Conversion began in earnest during the 1600s under Danish-Norwegian and Swedish rule, with missionaries like Lars Levi Laestadius playing a complex role in both suppression and preservation of Sami culture. The state church historically banned Sami joiking, drums, and shamanic practices, labeling them as pagan. Laestadianism, a revivalist Lutheran movement, became particularly influential among the Sami in the 19th century. Modern Sami Christians often navigate a dual identity, maintaining cultural heritage while participating in mainstream Lutheran or Pentecostal churches. The Vatican’s 1992 apology for historical missionary actions marked a turning point in church-Sami relations. Today, religious practice among the Sami is diverse, with many identifying as culturally Christian but spiritually independent.
