The Albert Heijn in Sleeuwijk must remain closed on Sundays. That is the message that 26 churches have sent to the Altena municipal council, which must make a decision on this. “It is a day of rest in honor of God.”
Sunday rest in the municipality of Altena has been under discussion for some time. The Albert Heijn in Sleeuwijk would love to open on the Day of the Lord. This leads to resistance in the religious community, including the 26 churches.
‘Sunday rest is still given to residents’
Representatives of the 26 churches in the municipality of Altena have therefore written a letter to the municipal council, which must make a decision after the municipal elections whether or not Albert Heijn may open on Sundays.
“We express our appreciation that Sunday as a day of rest has a special place in our community,” the church representatives write. “As one of the few municipalities in the Netherlands, this has still been donated to the residents of Altena.”
Traditions and customs
Now, due to the shopping hours decision of the municipality of Altena, shops may only be open there from Monday to Saturday from six in the morning to ten at night. And that means that there is no hoarding on Sundays in the municipality of Altena. Customers have to go to Heusden, Waalwijk, Raamsdonksveer or Gorinchem for their large or small message.
“It is difficult, because we want to be respectful of existing traditions and customs in the village,” a spokesperson for the supermarket previously told Omroep Brabant. At the same time, the store notices that customers have time to do their shopping during the weekend. “By also being open on Sundays, we can respond to that need.”
Rest, church visits and reflection
The churches, on the other hand, believe that Sunday rest should be respected. “In the Christian tradition, this day is intended for rest, church visits and reflection and meeting.”
That meeting just won’t happen with the cashier. “Opening shops on Sundays goes against this commandment,” the churches say.
‘Going crazy in a 24-hour economy’
In addition, the churches want to protect citizens and entrepreneurs against ‘going crazy in a 24-hour economy’. They are afraid that people will become overloaded and burn out. “What a blessing it is to have one fixed day of rest every week. A day on which we can reflect and distance ourselves from the issues of everyday life,” they write.
The church representatives hope that the shopping hours will remain as they are after the municipal elections. “With respect and commitment, we ask you to observe God’s commandment in your decision-making,” they call on the municipal council.
Legal action
Albert Heijn in Sleeuwijk previously informed Omroep Brabant that it would take legal action if the municipality of Altena is not prepared to adjust its shopping hours. “We hope to find a solution that combines freedom of choice and respect for tradition.”
