Netherlands, Antilles

Netherlands Antilles Factbook

The people of the Netherlands Antilles are traditionally Roman Catholic, but the number of Evangelicals has begun to grow. The people show an openness to the gospel, and there are a good number of workers seeking to reach them.

The Netherlands Antilles consist of two groups of islands in the Caribbean. One group is located off the north shore of Venezuela. The other group is located to the east of Puerto Rico.

The total population of the islands is just over 200,000. Most of the people are a mixture of African and Caribbean origin.

Relative to most Caribbean nations, the economy is strong and diversified. Offshore banking, petroleum refining, and tourism are the largest sources of income. Nearly all consumer goods must be imported.

The Netherlands Antilles are considered part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Each island is free to manage its own internal affairs, and each operates as a parliamentary democracy. Some on the islands are pushing for full independence. There is freedom of religion.

The Roman Catholic Church is the largest group with over 70% of the population. The number of Evangelicals has grown rapidly over the last 20 years and now accounts for approximately 8% of the people. Pray that evangelical ministries would be established on each of the islands.

Although the official language is Dutch, the Papiamento language is the native language of nearly all the people. A Papiamento Bible was published in 1997. Pray that this translation would be a great blessing as people have an opportunity to read the Scriptures in their native language.

Trans World Radio operates a station on Bonaire that reaches a broad audience. There are several local Christian radio programs as well. Pray for these ministries.

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