The Provincial of Europe of the Brothers of Saint John has decided to leave The Hague as religious community. This decision was made necessary by the appointment of the Prior, Father Matthew, to the Prior General’s Council in France. With a shortage of brothers, such a decision was inevitable.
The Brothers of Saint John came to The Hague in 2004 at the invitation of Bishop Van Luyn. Since 2012 they have been responsible for the Willibrordushuis compound, and have continued and expanded the mission of this house by promoting evangelization and a spiritual oasis in the heart of The Hague, under the name of “Stadsabdij” (Abbey in the City).
Accompanying the various residential communities (students, young families, young pro’s) in the house has been particularly dear to the Brothers. During this period, they have also received many groups of Catholic and Protestant origin, and assisted in the pastoral care of the “Sterre der Zee” Parish.
Both the brothers of the Priory and the Prior Provincial’s Council are very saddened by this decision. They would have liked to keep contributing in the future. They wish to thank particularly all the people who have shared in their mission over the years, as well as the Diocese of Rotterdam for the trust that has been placed in them.
Brother Johan and Bernhard-Maria will receive a new assignment from 1 September.
The Brothers of Saint John have offered the diocese of Rotterdam to remain available for a transitional period for the pastoral care in the after September 1st.
The diocese of Rotterdam respects the decision of the brothers but regrets that the contribution of the brothers to the project of the “Stadsabdij” stops. The diocese is considering the future of the house and, in consultation with the current residential communities, will look at the possibilities of preserving the house as a place of faith and community in the city.
On Sunday, September 7, Bishop Van den Hende will celebrate a Holy Mass in gratitude for the pastoral ministry of the Brothers of St. John in the Diocese of Rotterdam and to mark their departure. This Eucharist will take place at 3 p.m. in the chapel of Oude Molstraat 35. Afterwards, there will be a reception to which all who feel connected to the Willibrordushuis are invited.