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Norwegian group grieving

Dear Editor: Sons of Norway is a fraternal organization primarily composed of immigrants or descendants of Norway or people who feel connected to or associated with Norwegians, and the purpose of the organization is to promote the culture and traditi

Dear Editor:

Sons of Norway is a fraternal organization primarily composed of immigrants or descendants of Norway or people who feel connected to or associated with Norwegians, and the purpose of the organization is to promote the culture and traditions of Norway as well as caring for each other.

Varden Lodge just celebrated its 100th anniversary

in March of this year, and we have been a part of the community in New Westminster and Burnaby throughout our century of existence. We have been actively promoting and preserving our heritage by teaching our traditions in art (fabric, painting and woodwork), cooking and folk dancing over the years, and supporting each other in times of sickness or distress.

Our members are shocked and saddened by the news of the terrible bombing and shooting in Norway. Some of our members are distantly related to people in Norway, because we are second, third and fourth generation Canadians, but others were born in Norway and still have strong ties to their homeland with close family members who live there. Regardless of our family connections, we are still part of the Norwegian brotherhood, and are deeply affected by these terrible events.

It is inconceivable that such a peaceful and progressive country should have something as terrible as this happen. The perpetrator is unrecognizable to us as a Norwegian (or a Christian) because his actions simply do not reflect the strength of character typical of Norwegians.

Varden Lodge members join in sorrow and support with other lodges throughout Sons of Norway and all Norwegians.

Members of Varden Lodge, New Westminster