Samenkomst

Samenkomst is a Dutch noun meaning the act of coming together, a gathering or meeting. The term derives from samen ('together') and komst ('coming'). It is used in both secular and religious contexts to describe a gathering of people for a common purpose.

In religious use, especially within Dutch Reformed and Protestant communities, samenkomst commonly refers to a worship service or church service. The exact form varies by denomination and geography, but it generally denotes a scheduled assembly of the congregation for worship, prayer, readings, song, and often a sermon. In some communities, the samenkomst is the principal weekly gathering and may take place on Sundays or other days.

In secular use, samenkomst can denote any organized meeting or assembly—such as a community event, school gathering, or company meeting—where people come together for discussion, decision-making, or social purposes. The concept highlights communal participation and shared experience.

Etymologically and in usage, the word stresses the act and experience of coming together rather than the location or date alone. Related Dutch terms include vergadering (meeting) and dienst (service), though the latter is often used specifically for religious services.