How did a church with roots in Tsjechië end up here in Amsterdam? Today we are standing in front of the Evangelische Broedergemeente. It is a Protestant church with a unique history. Let’s dive into the story of the Evangelische Broedergemeente.
The Evangelische Broedergemeente’s story began in Tsjechië. It started in Moravië and Bohemen. Jan Hus was killed in 1415 for his beliefs. This sparked unrest. Some people broke away from Rome. A small group wanted to live by the Bible. They settled in Kunwald around 1457. In 1467, they chose their leaders. This marked the start of the Broedergemeente.
The Evangelische Broedergemeente quickly grew. By the 16th century, it had about 100.000 members. But the government never recognized it. Instead, they were persecuted. Bishop Jan Augusta was even jailed for 16 years.
As life became difficult, the Evangelische Broedergemeente moved. Around 1550, they went to Poland. They joined with other Protestants. In 1648, peace was declared. But the Evangelische Broedergemeente was forgotten. They continued to be persecuted. The church was wiped out in Bohemen and Moravië. Some families secretly kept their faith.
Jan Amos Comenius was the last bishop. He fled to Poland and later to Amsterdam. He sought help for the church. Comenius died in Amsterdam in 1670. He was buried in Naarden.
Around 1720, the Evangelische Broedergemeente was revived. Piëtists shared their faith. People wanted spiritual freedom. They were willing to leave everything behind. Some nobles offered them land. Czech speakers settled in places like Berlin. German speakers built Herrnhut in 1724.
Nikolaus Ludwig Graf von Zinzendorf led the new community. He united people with different beliefs. In 1722, the first families arrived. They were aware of their history. Zinzendorf helped them become united. They shared communion on August 13, 1727. They became one in heart and soul. Herrnhut became a powerful center.
In 1732, two brothers went to St. Thomas. They wanted to work with slaves. This was the start of the Herrnhutter mission. They went to harsh and remote places. They shared the Gospel with various people. The Evangelische Broedergemeente started missions in other places.
To spread the Gospel to India, they settled in the Netherlands in 1734. They met Mennonites. Zinzendorf came to the Netherlands in 1736. The Mennonites joined the Evangelische Broedergemeente. They helped the church settle in Zeist. In 1738, groups formed in Amsterdam and Haarlem. A house was built for traveling missionaries.
The Evangelische Broedergemeente sought more freedom. Cornelis Schellinger bought Zeist. A synod was held there in 1746. A new settlement was built. The Broederhuis was destroyed in a fire in 1967 but was rebuilt.
The Evangelische Broedergemeente in Amsterdam acquired the Immanuelkerk in 1969. It was too small so in 1994, the Koningskerk was bought. It was renovated and opened in 1995. The Koningskerk is known for Majoor Bosshardt’s funeral.
The Koningskerk is actively used. It is also rented out. Mavis has been a volunteer for almost 50 years. She helps with administration. About 100 to 150 volunteers are active in the church. Mavis fondly remembers the Moravian trips. These trips strengthen bonds within the church.
Inside, the Koningskerk is beautiful. The walls and benches are white. This is the color of all Evangelische Broedergemeente churches worldwide. The stained-glass windows are stunning. Church services start at 10:30 AM on Sundays. They last over an hour.
The Evangelische Broedergemeente here in Amsterdam is more than just a building. It represents centuries of faith, resilience, and community.