Pray for Netherlands

The Netherlands is one of the most densely populated nations in Europe, yet much of it has a peaceful charm. Its picturesque streets are lined with elegant architecture and filled with cyclists, capturing the essence of gezelligheid — the Dutch spirit of cozy, social connection. The people have a long history of tolerance and acceptance, and today, these traditions are taken to extremes in embracing all lifestyles. The advanced economy has one of the highest incomes per person in the world. The capital city of Amsterdam is one of the world’s major financial centers, and Rotterdam is one of the world’s busiest ports. The nation’s strong democracy generally protects political rights and civil liberties.

Dutch identity is something that the Netherlands prides itself on, which has led to discrimination against those who are not ethnically Dutch. Today, as Muslim immigrants and refugees from the Middle East come into the Netherlands, religious, ethnic, and generational differences are becoming more polarized. The nation has also grown very secular. In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Cohabitation without marriage is common, and the nation’s sexual violence and human trafficking rates are high. Prostitution is not only legal but highly visible, and Amsterdam’s red-light district is internationally known for its prostitution. Although alcohol consumption is decreasing, drug use is high. Additionally, almost half of high school and college students in the Netherlands experience mental health issues, especially depression and anxiety.

With a rich Christian heritage forged in the Protestant Reformation, the Netherlands has long been a vibrant part of the global Church. Sadly, much of that heritage has been lost as the nation increasingly turns away from its Christian roots. Less than 20 percent of the Dutch people attend church regularly, and over half of the population does not claim a religion at all. Hundreds of church buildings have been destroyed or repurposed as the nation has become more secular. Many Christians are accepting secular beliefs, especially those that go against God’s design for marriage and gender. Christians are becoming afraid to speak out against what is wrong because of their society’s emphasis on tolerance.