Teen Challenge Netherlands
Teen Challenge established its first European center in 1969, starting in the Netherlands. Teen Challenge of the Netherlands concentrates on innovative outreach and discipleship ministries (residential as well as non-residential), partnering with local churches. They are located 30 minutes from Amsterdam and have a nationally recognized effective youth program called The Gate, street outreach and an innovative multi-faceted ministry center called Life Center. At the beginning of 2019 they opened a large Thrift Store to support the ministry of Teen Challenge.
About Stephan and Marianne
Stephan is the son of Dutch missionaries who served in Germany. He went to Northpoint Bible College and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Theology. Stephan is an evangelist and serves as the National Director of Teen Challenge in the Netherlands. Stephan and Marianne were married in June 2007. Marianne has a Master’s degree in Dutch Language and Culture, serving as a communications specialist for Teen Challenge Netherlands and working as a translator.
Opportunities to serve include:
– Street Ministry
– Evangelism
– Community Outreach with At-Risk Youth
– Prayer Walks
– Service projects
– Church Ministry
Missions Trip Schedule:
A missions trip itinerary will be created based on your team’s unique goals as well as the Global Teen Challenge location’s ministry opportunities. The missions team will have one designated day to enjoy and experience the culture of the Netherlands. Experiences discussed during the trip planning.
Background
The Dutch United Provinces declared their independence from Spain in 1581; during the 17th century, they became a leading seafaring and commercial power, with settlements and colonies worldwide. After 18 years of French domination, the Netherlands regained its independence in 1813. In 1830, Belgium seceded and formed a separate kingdom.
Climate
Temperate; marine; cool summers and mild winters
Population
17,772,378 people
Ethnic groups
Dutch 75.4%, EU (excluding Dutch) 6.4%, Turkish 2.4%, Moroccan 2.4%, Surinamese 2.1%, Indonesian 2%, other 9.3% (2021 est.)
Languages
Dutch (official), Frisian (official in Fryslan province)
Religions
Roman Catholic 20.1%, Protestant 14.8% (includes Dutch Reformed, Protestant Church of The Netherlands, Calvinist), Muslim 5%, other 5.9% (includes Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish), none 54.1% (2019 est.)
Traditional Cuisine
Stamppot — potatoes mashed with sauerkraut, endive, kale, turnips, or other vegetable and cooked in a pot; usually served with smoked sausage on the side
For Parents
On the Way, in partnership with Teen Challenge of the Netherlands, does street ministry sensitive to the missions team’s ages and demographics. Outreach in ministry does not take place in the red light district.
Interested in learning more about this trip? Contact us today!