So What? Some Experiences of Secularism in the Netherlands and My Own Way to Handle It as a Local Pastor

Abstract

The article consists of three parts. In the introduction, it is stated that there are a lot of different ideas and theories about secularism, and some short highlights are given, positively as well as negatively. In Poland, secularism is different from secularism in the Netherlands, one of the most secularized countries in Western Europe. In the second part, the author shows how, as a local pastor, she experienced secularism during the last five decades: indifference, loss of commitment and biblical knowledge, also concerns about office bearers, closing of churches, the loss of feeling for the sacramental life of the church, closing of several theological faculties, etc. On the other hand, the positive side of secularism is not only about more authenticity and elasticity in the Church (less obligatory duties), but also the abolition of slavery, more freedom for women and children and more freedom for minorities. In the third part, the author shows how we take up new challenges, including new forms of episkopè, pioneer places and the music event of the Passion. She closes with some open questions waiting for answers. The answers are very important for the ecumenical movement as a whole.