In the thriving city of Vlaardingen, the Netherlands, stands a church that is not only rooted in tradition but also boldly embracing the future. Led by Pastor Dennis Mohn, who has been shepherding the congregation for over a decade, this community of believers at Nazarener Vlaardingen is leveraging technology to spread their message far beyond the church walls.
Born in Germany but Dutch at heart, Pastor Dennis is no stranger to the intricacies of ministry. Growing up as a third-generation Nazarene in a family deeply rooted in faith, his journey to becoming a pastor was almost predestined. However, it was his personal encounter with Jesus at the age of 20 that solidified his calling. Following his conversion, he pursued theological studies at European Nazarene College in Büsingen, Germany, where he was immersed in a deeply Christian environment, shaping his approach to ministry.
Reflecting on his years in ministry, Pastor Dennis emphasizes the importance of staying true to the core principles of Christianity. “Sometimes I look at the church and I think we have something ‘Better to do,’ but we are called to do ‘for the least of these,'” he reflects. This conviction fuels his desire to refocus the congregation on Jesus, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond the church’s regular activities, Pastor Dennis is deeply committed to serving the community in tangible ways. Whether it’s through everyday interactions or his involvement with organizations like Youth for Christ, he sees each moment as an opportunity to embody the love of Jesus.
When it comes to utilizing technology in pastoral ministry, he is a trailblazer. Recognizing the transformative power of digital platforms, especially in a post-pandemic world, the church has embraced various tools such as WhatsApp, social media, podcasts, and live streaming to extend their reach. “Our message isn’t private—so let’s get it out there,” he affirms. By partnering with educational institutions like EuNC, the church is not only disseminating theological knowledge but also fostering a sense of community among believers, both locally and globally.
For those considering entering the ministry, Pastor Dennis offers sage advice: “Everything is relational. It’s all about Jesus.” He emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the core message of Christianity and resisting the temptation to prioritize non-essentials. Looking ahead, his aspirations for the ministry and congregation are centered on embracing technology as a tool for reaching an invisible congregation and continuing to expand their digital footprint.
In the ever-evolving landscape of pastoral ministry, Nazarener Vlaardingen stands as a beacon of innovation and faith, demonstrating that with a forward-thinking approach and unwavering commitment to the gospel, the church can truly reach the world.
-article written by Dennis O.
