The Gestapo arrested Andreas Kvinge in Bodø in July 1941 and asked him where the Witnesses in northern Norway could be found. “I do not know where they are today,” Andreas replied truthfully. Imagine how Andreas felt during the interrogation when the officers scattered the contents of his bag all over the floor​—papers that listed the names and addresses of congregations, servants in the congregations, and interested people. To Andreas’ great relief, though, no one took the trouble to examine those papers. The Gestapo were more intent on getting Andreas to sign a statement admitting that it was forbidden to preach and serve as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

“We know that our activity is now banned,” responded Andreas, “so I can sign that I am aware of this. But even though it is forbidden to hold meetings and distribute magazines and books, we will continue to use the Bible and speak to people about God’s Kingdom.” When it was clear that Andreas would not compromise, the Gestapo released him.

In 1943, Magnus Randal, who had served on the pioneer boat Ruth, obtained addresses from Brother Öman and set out northward on a 750-mile-long [1200 km] bicycle trip to Bodø to encourage the brothers and sisters.