Parishes and monasteries are following the social trend of striving for a sustainable handling of natural resources and fair attitude towards fellow human beings. As a result, the focus on vulnerable people and mutual solidarity both play a major role. Greening activities have already been launched in many locations in the Netherlands, and moments of reflection have also raised concern for the earth, for other people and for fair-sharing. This research project aims to examine and analyse Catholic Netherlands’ approach to these activities.
Connection to the neighborhood
One hypothesis is that sustainable initiatives may provide parishes and monasteries with a ‘fresh impetus’ so that they can improve their visibility and their connection with their neighbourhood. Parishes and monasteries have been able to adopt a prudent and protective lifestyle thanks to the new attitude in gardening and agriculture, the use of materials, the management of energy and water, financial management and their choice of food.
A questionnaire has been drawn up and sent out to all of the Catholic parishes in the Netherlands. Protestant congregations in the Netherlands have also been asked to complete the questionnaire.