Sunday, February 5, was Relief Sunday. What did you notice about it in your congregation? We would love to hear about it!
Last week, all sorts of stories surfaced of the flood disaster 70 years ago. 'The water didn't sink.' On the disaster night of Sunday 1 February 1953, dykes broke in large parts of South Holland, Zeeland and North Brabant. This was due to a severe north-westerly storm combined with spring tides, which caused abnormally high water levels on the coast of the southern Netherlands. 72,000 residents had to be evacuated for long periods and 1,836 people died. Thousands of families lost home and hearth.
Churches sprang into action. Collections were also held in our churches the Sunday after the disaster, the first Sunday in February, to help those affected. It was then said in our churches: 'Why are we limiting ourselves to our own country? There is so much need!' And that, unfortunately, has not changed.
So this year is the 70th Relief Sunday. That is not a cause for celebration. It is, however, an occasion for a collection and an inspiration to give. It is an opportunity to reach out our love, far and near.
As a diaconate, we have provided many ideas and materials to fill out Relief Sunday in your congregation as well. You can find it all at this page of aid Sunday 2023. In particular, we draw attention to this video.
