The Nederlandse Christenmilitairen Ontmoetingskring (NCOK), a supportive network for Christian personnel in the Dutch Armed Forces, hopes to expand its reach and ministry across the nation's military community.
Translated as the Dutch Christian Military Encounter Circle, the NCOK is a voluntary organization founded in 1929 with the vision of making Jesus visible within the Armed Forces. It serves as a vital network for Christian soldiers, sailors, airmen, and civilian colleagues within the Ministry of Defence.
With the total personnel of the Dutch Ministry of Defence recorded at 79,323 as of Sept. 1, the ministry says its long-term goal is deeply relational: to see Christian military personnel stationed at every barracks, air base, or ship actively supporting one another.
In a recent NCOK team communication, one of the network’s leaders, Ruben Bosma, reflected on the group's enduring ministry and its need for expansion.
Referencing the scripture, “Peace be with all of you who are one in Christ” (1 Peter 5:14), Bosma noted that while the network has organized an annual community day “for decades,” the need to reach more Christian colleagues remains pressing.
The network’s most recent gathering on Nov. 15 took place at the historic Beukbergen estate in Huis ter Heide (Zeist, Utrecht). Attendees came together for a time of fellowship and worship.
Bosma shared his own sense of encouragement from networking with others on the day. “It was wonderful to worship together, talk about how we conduct ourselves as Christians in the military, encourage one another, and meet new fellow Christians,” he wrote.
The event successfully represented “all corners of the country, all different OPCOs [operational commands], and all generations,” highlighting the unity of faith across the diverse service branches and commands.
Bosma extended thanks to Chaplain Rev. Sjoerd Muller for sharing God's word and leading the conversation, and concluded his reflection with a personal testimony on the impact of the gathering.
“I, for one, have gained a lot of inspiration and am deeply encouraged by the heart for Christ I saw in my colleagues on Saturday. Spread throughout the organization, yet together we may serve Him and spread His light in the Armed Forces.”
Looking ahead, the NCOK core team is focused on doing more for every Christian Defense Department employee.
“We’re Christian military personnel ourselves, and we see the value of reaching out to one another,” Bosma stated.
The network is now asking its members to help brainstorm new ways to connect, posing key questions on the future of their ministry: Should the focus be primarily on worshipping God together? Should they talk about difficult topics soldiers and staff may be struggling with? Should they organize active gatherings, such as a weekend getaway?
“As NCOK, we’re a community, and as a core team, we’re curious about what we can do for you,” Bosma affirmed, signaling a renewed commitment to expanding the gospel presence within the Dutch military.
