The Dutch Armed Forces’ Christian support network, the Netherlands Christian Militaireen Ontomatingsklink (NCOK), wants to expand its reach and outreach throughout the country’s military community.
NCOK, translated as Dutch Christian Military Encounter Circle, is a voluntary organization founded in 1929 with the vision of making Jesus visible within the military. It serves as a vital network for Christian soldiers, sailors, airmen, and civilian colleagues within the Department of Defense.
The total personnel of the Dutch Ministry of Defense was recorded at 79,323 as of September 1, and the ministry says its long-term goal is to be in close contact, with Christian military personnel stationed in every barracks, air base and ship, actively supporting each other.
In a recent NCOK team communication, one of the network’s leaders, Ruben Bosma, reflected on the group’s enduring service and the need for its expansion.
Quoting the scripture, “Peace be to all of you who are one in Christ” (1 Peter 5:14), Bosma said that while the network has organized an annual community day “for many decades,” there remains a pressing need to reach more fellow Christians.
The network’s latest gathering, which took place on November 15th, was held at the historic Boikbergen mansion in Huis ter Heide (Zeist, Utrecht). Participants had a time of fellowship and worship.
Bosma spoke about the encouragement he received from networking with others on the day. “It was great to worship together, discuss how to conduct ourselves as Christians in the military, encourage each other, and meet new fellow Christians,” he wrote.
The event successfully represented “every corner of the country, every different OPCO (operational command), and every generation,” highlighting the unity of faith across diverse military branches and commands.
Mr. Bosma thanked the pastor, Rev. Sheld Muller, for sharing God’s word and leading the conversation, and concluded his reminiscence with a personal testimony of the impact of the meeting.
“I personally found much inspiration and was deeply encouraged by the thought of Christ that I saw in my colleagues on Saturday. As it permeates throughout the organization, together we can serve God and spread His light in the military.”
Looking to the future, the NCOK Core Team is focused on doing more for all Christian Department of Defense employees.
“We are Christian service members ourselves and understand the value of reaching out to one another,” Bosma said.
The network is now asking its members to help brainstorm new ways to connect, asking important questions about the future of ministry. Should it primarily focus on worshiping God together? Should we talk about difficult topics that our soldiers and staff may be struggling with? Should you organize active gatherings, such as weekend getaways?
“As NCOK, we are a community and as a core team, we are interested in what we can do for you,” Bosma affirmed, expressing a renewed determination to expand the gospel presence within the Dutch military.
