In 1922 a branch office of Jehovah’s Getuigen was established in Amsterdam. This marked a pivotal moment for the faith in the Netherlands. Before this the good news had arrived through Heinrich Brinkhoff who shared literature from the Watch Tower Society. This sparked a growing interest. Brother Joseph F. Rutherford’s 1920 visit to Europe solidified the presence. He set up a branch office in Switzerland overseeing the Netherlands. Brother Adriaan Block then oversaw the work here locally.
The Amsterdam branch office significantly organized the preaching work. The number of Jehovah’s Getuigen steadily increased. By the time World War II began around 500 publishers were active. The war brought immense challenges. Jehovah’s Witnesses were persecuted under Nazi occupation. Hundreds were deported to concentration camps. Tragically some 130 died due to illness and hardships. Despite the persecution the number of Witnesses actually grew to 3125 by 1945.
The post-war period wasn’t without its difficulties. The Catholic Church fiercely opposed the Witnesses especially in the south. A 1952 assembly in Venlo faced intense opposition. Vendors cancelled contracts. Undeterred the brothers set up a tent in a field. Over a thousand people tried to disrupt the convention. The police even raided the site arresting some brothers. Yet the convention continued. The branch office’s careful guidance proved invaluable.
Jehovah’s Getuigen continued to thrive despite obstacles. In 1983 the Netherlands branch moved to Emmen. Today nearly 30000 Jehovah’s Witnesses call the Netherlands home. Their enduring faith through trials proves their resilience. The history of Jehovah’s Getuigen in the Netherlands is a testament to their steadfast devotion. It is a story of perseverance and unwavering faith in the face of adversity. Their story is one of growth and resilience a beacon of faith in Amsterdam and beyond.