BLACK STOCKINGS
Time seems to be standing still in the God fearing community of Staphorst, a town located in what is commonly referred to as the Dutch Bible Belt. Unlike the rest of the Netherlands, which is considered one of the most liberal societies in the world, this section of the country is home to a half million orthodox Calvinists who live their lives in strict accordance to the Bible. They are called “black stockings” by the liberal Dutch because of the many layers of dark traditional clothing they wear, including the thigh-high, hand-knitted black stockings worn by many of the women.
These devout conservative Protestants go to church TWICE on Sunday and must give an accounting to the congregation if they are absent. Buses don’t run, shops are closed, and the community is forbidden from jogging, swimming, or attending a movie or restaurant on this day of worship. At home, 80% of the population does not have television, swearing is banned and women wearing trousers are shunned. Those opposing this strict lifestyle are viewed as “fallen people” who will never be forgiven for their sins… and will be at the complete and total mercy of a wrathful God.
This is also a society where strangers are viewed with mistrust, men and women are not equal, abortion is illegal, and the birth rate is the highest in the country. Medical treatment is also rejected by some, and many still oppose vaccination practices. This is also where the Reformed Political Party (SGP) has its origins. Not only do they oppose freedom of religion and bar women from holding public office, they also strive toward a government that is based primarily on the Bible.
Although traditional Calvinists would describe themselves as hard working and righteous people of strong faith, they also teach that one must adhere to the Bible to be loved by God. They also tell us how to worship God, how to live a Christian life and what sort of government that God would favor. Although we are all entitled to our own religious beliefs, we should ask ourselves whether God would really reject those who lived a moral and ethical life but chose to do it in their own way and on their own terms?
Copyright © 2012 (Michelle Parsons, Getting Back on Your Path). All Rights Reserved.
