• Reinder Bruinsma, former president of the Belgian-Luxembourg Conference was honored with a royal decoration in the Netherlands on April 28.
• There is a tradition in the country that on the king’s birthday, Dutch people who “have rendered special service to society” can be honored.
• Bruinsma was awarded the title “Knight of the Order of Orange Nassau.”
• Bruinsma’s determination to make the gospel relevant both to churchgoers and those that have little connection to church was noted as he was honored.
• The Dutch leader has written extensively in support of women in ministry and is also keenly interested in the LGBTI community.

From ANN (translated from the original French-language EUD story) – 20 May 2021 | On April 28th, Reinder Bruinsma, former president of the Belgian-Luxembourg Conference, had the pleasant surprise of being honored with a royal decoration. There is a tradition in the Netherlands that on the king’s birthday, Dutch people who “have rendered special service to society” can be honored. Reinder Bruinsma was awarded the title “Knight of the Order of Orange Nassau.” This year, 2,832 Dutch citizens received a royal honor, more than 86% were appointed “members” of the Order, and 325 people received the rank of “knight.”

In his speech in the city hall, G. J. Gorter, the Mayor of Zeewolde, Bruinsma’s place of residence, said that Bruinsma was always looking for the relevance of the gospel, not only for churchgoers but also for those who have little connection with the church. Through his publications (30 books), articles and blogs, he has been able to highlight and analyze developments in the church and society. In his blogs and through other media, he pays particular attention to the position of women in ministry and the position of the LGBTI community. In addition, his contribution as a writer for the ESDA Institute and its magazine Contact has been mentioned separately. Finally, his involvement and his international network were highlighted.

Due to the health situation, only ten guests could attend the ceremony (including their daughter, Danielle, and a sister and brother of Reinder and Reinder’s wife, Aafje). The decorations were not pinned by the mayor but by Aafje, Reinder’s wife. It is rather unusual that the person in question is named a Knight (not a Member) of the Order of Orange Nassau. The international nature of Bruinsma’s involvement has certainly contributed to this. It is impressive to see the number of lectures, presentations, and sermons that Bruinsma has given in Germany, England, the United States, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Belgium, Denmark, France, and Australia.

In addition to Bruinsma’s words of thanks, in which he of course associated his wife, Aafje, two short speeches were given by Bert Slond and Wim Altink. These two, along with others, contributed to Bruinsma’s nomination for this royal award.

Photo credit: EUD

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