De Hoeksteen, Barneveld

Barneveld, a charming town in the heart of the Netherlands, is home to an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to faith and community: De Hoeksteen. This grand church, situated on Vellerselaan 1, is not only a place of worship but also an iconic landmark that draws visitors from near and far. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply curious, De Hoeksteen offers a unique glimpse into the cultural and spiritual fabric of Barneveld.

The Magnificent Structure of De Hoeksteen

De Hoeksteen, translating to The Cornerstone, is renowned for being the largest church in the Netherlands in terms of seating capacity. This impressive edifice occupies a vast 30,000 square meters in the new residential area of Veller, almost adjacent to the Adullamkerk, another significant church of the Reformed Congregation. The strategic planning behind these churches ensures that the services of the Reformed Congregation and the Reformed Congregations in the Netherlands start half an hour apart, effectively managing the influx of around four thousand worshippers and preventing traffic congestion on Sundays.

The church building itself is a marvel of modern architecture. It boasts a towering height of 21.25 meters, with the spire reaching an impressive 37.75 meters into the sky. The total floor area of De Hoeksteen spans 6,020 square meters, with a volume of 43,300 cubic meters. The design incorporates a bicycle basement that can accommodate 450 bicycles and a parking area for 520 cars, reflecting the thoughtful consideration for the needs of its congregation.

A Journey Through History

The construction of De Hoeksteen began in 2007 and was completed by the end of 2008. Initially, the church provided seating for 2,531 worshippers, replacing the old church that had become too small for the ever-growing congregation of 1,800 members. However, by 2014, it became evident that even this new, larger building could not keep up with the expanding community, highlighting the dynamic and flourishing nature of the congregation.

The church's establishment did not come without its share of discussions and debates. The simultaneous construction of De Hoeksteen and the Adullamkerk garnered significant media attention nationwide. Locally, the construction sparked a lively debate, with some viewing it as a sign of increasing religious influence in Barneveld. Despite these discussions, the Reformatorisch Dagblad, a prominent newspaper, pointed out that the voting percentage for the SGP (Reformed Political Party) in Barneveld had remained steady at around 20% for decades, suggesting that the influence had not significantly increased.

The Resplendent Organ

One of the most captivating features of De Hoeksteen is its exquisite organ. Originally from the old church of the Reformed Congregations in the Netherlands in Barneveld, this organ was crafted in 1981 by B.A.G. Orgelmakers from Enschede, with renowned organist Willem Hendrik Zwart serving as an advisor during its construction. In 2008, the organ was meticulously relocated to De Hoeksteen by the firm Ide Boogaard. During this process, an upper work was added, and the case was painted and modified to fit the new setting. The organ's inaugural performance in the new church took place on January 21, 2009, with organist Pieter Heykoop at the helm, creating a memorable and melodious beginning for the church's musical journey.

The Thriving Congregation

The congregation of De Hoeksteen has a rich history, dating back to its formation in 1953 as a split from the local Reformed Congregation. Today, the congregation boasts 3,608 members and is currently led by Reverend J. Roos. The church has seen several esteemed pastors over the years, including Reverend Chr. van de Woestijne (1953-1970), Reverend A. van Straalen (1976-1981 and 1983-1992), and Reverend A. Schultink (1998-2003).

A Comparison with the Largest Mosque in the Netherlands

Interestingly, the period during which De Hoeksteen was constructed coincided with the construction of the largest mosque in the Netherlands, the Essalammoskee in Rotterdam. This parallel development of significant religious structures in the country highlights the diverse and rich tapestry of faith that characterizes the Netherlands.

In conclusion, De Hoeksteen is more than just a church; it is a symbol of community, faith, and architectural brilliance. Its grand structure, rich history, and vibrant congregation make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Barneveld. Whether you are attending a service, admiring the organ, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, De Hoeksteen offers a profound and enriching experience that reflects the heart and soul of this charming Dutch town.