Why this call?
‘There is an increasing need for social interaction and contact with each other, whether religious or not. A member of the church centre De Ark was inspired by the fact that you can always walk into a church abroad. There is peace there, you can light a candle, come to yourself or meditate. The church is a place where people meet each other. So it is strange that our church is closed, he thought. Recently, residents can walk into De Ark every day in the morning and evening thanks to fifty volunteers. As mayor, I was asked to give the opening speech. I think it is an incredibly beautiful initiative. There are many lonely people who have little to no contact. They can now walk into the church in Dronten for a cup of coffee and a chat. That is why I am calling on all churches in the Netherlands to open their doors.’
Can these volunteers provide the right help to people in need?
‘This initiative is not primarily intended for people in need or who are suicidal. It is about residents finding their way to the church for a moment of conversation and contact that they would otherwise miss. The volunteers who are there do not need to be trained. They are human, that is training enough. I can therefore imagine that someone who really does not feel like it at the moment, also has a good conversation in the church.’
Given the separation of church and state, can you engage the religious community as a social partner?
‘Of course. Churches have been social partners of the government for a long time, just like sports clubs, for example. They have an important task. This has nothing to do with religion, but with human contact. You don’t have to go to church just because you believe. You go there because you are human. Due to secularization and an increasingly individualized society, the church is taking on a different role. I often visit residents who are celebrating their sixtieth wedding anniversary. Then I always ask them if they still go to church. Many say yes. It’s not just about the word, but also about the gathering afterwards, with a cup of coffee. Sometimes residents indicate that it is difficult to go to church because of their condition. I have put this to the church board with the question whether these people could not be picked up. That is now being considered. I think that is fantastic. Ultimately, in our society, it is about people finding each other and being together. Churches are also part of that connection and social cohesion, just like mayors, by the way.’
