Christianity was for centuries the most common religion in the Netherlands. In the Middle Ages was all in the Netherlands and also in large parts of Europe, to religion. People were then still relatively young death, life suggested therefore rare. The church said that when a good life members, then after a short time in hell, eternal life would get in the kingdom of God. In the 60s of the last century, people are quick to differ.

Christianity and Christian culture in the Netherlands for centuries a major influence on society. From the 60s and 70s this influence began to decline rapidly. This development occurred not only in the Netherlands, but in many European countries.

In the "Christian Western Europe" are the church and Christianity does not determine the actions of the people. We do see many expressions in the Netherlands who in one way or another to do with Christianity. Christianity is almost always reflected in our culture, thinking of our language, in paintings, in buildings, but also in customs and habits. An example is the celebration of Christmas and the stall under the tree.


Christian groups

There exist in our country many different Christian groups. These groups all have their own beliefs, customs and habits. The two largest groups of Christians called the Roman Catholics and Protestants. The last group, the Protestants, we can then divided into a multitude of movements and small Christian groups. An example is the Lutheran Church.


Impact on Dutch culture

We are now first reflect on the influence Christianity has had on Dutch culture. In our language, music, painting and building aspects to be found in Christianity. Many proverbs and expressions are derived directly from the Bible, or certain rites. Some examples are;
The culprit lies in the cemetery.
He is a doubting Thomas.

Some novels and poems are incomprehensible if you do not know something about words and concepts from the Bible. Think of the novel "Jacob's Ladder" by Maarten 't Hart Much of what these books say, is incomprehensible to readers that the language of the Bible and the church did not know. The same applies to many movies based on the life of biblical persons or biblical themes, such as the movie "Angels and Demons. The influence of the Christian faith is also clear to note with some music. The Bach Cantatas, gospel music and gothic metal without Christianity would not have been.


Broadcasters

There will also be in the Netherlands increasingly Christian organizations. De Volkskrant and Trouw newspapers as well as broadcasters and the EO, KRO and NCRV. There are also many schools, associations and political parties established on the basis of a Christian worldview.


The Christian calendar

Another clear example of the influence of Christianity, the Christian era, based on the (probable) birth of Jesus of Nazareth. That influence is felt throughout the world, as internationally the Christian era the most common. Many annual holidays with the Christian faith. School holidays are partially determined by such Christian holidays, Christmas, Easter and so on. Sunday is also the fixed rest day, Christians celebrate their faith with others. Christians are not standard on Sunday Fri