From 19 to 21 March 2025, around 90 Christian educators and leaders from 16 different countries gathered in Apeldoorn, the Netherlands, for the ECCEN 2025 conference. Hosted under the theme “Leadership in a Turbulent World: How Do We Lead Our School, Staff and Pupils?”, the event offered a rich programme of inspiration, connection, and reflection.
The conference provided space for Christian school leaders to share experiences, strengthen mutual ties, and deepen their understanding of leadership rooted in a biblical worldview.
Plenary Sessions and Bible Study
The conference opened with a Bible study by Liviu Caprar, who offered a powerful biblical reflection on leadership in times of uncertainty. His message encouraged participants to remain grounded in Christ as they serve their schools and communities. A summary and his presentation are available via the links below.
Prof. Dr. Ir. Henk Jochemsen delivered two key lectures during the conference. In “Equipping Christian Students” and “The Art of Living”, he explored the foundations of Christian education and the calling of schools to shape not just knowledge but also character and spiritual discernment. His summary and PowerPoint presentations are available for download.
Gabriele Kuby challenged participants to think critically about the cultural forces influencing young people and the importance of standing firm in truth and identity. Bernard Braker contributed a lecture offering practical perspectives on school leadership in today’s dynamic social climate.
- Bible Study Liviu Caprar (Summary)
- Bible Study Liviu Caprar (PPT)
- Lecture Prof. dr. ir. Henk Jochemsen (Summary)
- Lecture Prof. dr. ir. Henk Jochemsen (PPT)
- Equipping Christian Students - Prof. dr. ir. Henk Jochemsen
- The Art of Living - Prof. dr. ir. Henk Jochemsen
- Lecture Gabriele Kuby (Summary)
- Lecture Bernard Braker (PPT)
A Moment of Reflection for Israel
On Thursday evening, the conference paused to reflect on the current situation in Israel. Yoel Russo, director of the Makor Hatikvah School in Jerusalem, and Rev. David Zadok provided personal insights into the realities in their country. Rev. C. Sonnevelt also shared moving stories from his time in Israel, offering encouragement and hope. A student music group from the Fruytier School closed the evening with a beautiful and heartfelt performance.
Looking ahead
ECCEN 2025 was a powerful reminder of the importance of faithful and courageous leadership in Christian education. As participants return to their schools and communities, they do so with renewed vision and encouragement to lead with wisdom, grace, and conviction — rooted in the unchanging truth of God’s Word.
Articles and Media
Two articles from CNE News highlight key messages from the conference:
- The Challenge of Christian Education in a Turbulent World
- Gabriele Kuby in CNE Podcast: “Sexual Revolution Only Brings Depression to Young Generation”
Also, the Dutch newspaper Reformatorisch Dagblad published a report reflecting on the courage and conviction of Christian school leaders during these turbulent times:
More information
- Website: www.eccen.eu
Contact person
- Joël Baas, ECCEN Committee info@eccen.eu
