Martin Vloet (1938-2025)
Born in Oefelt (Netherlands),
on March 20, 1938.
Religious vows on August 22, 1957.
Missionary in Congo (Kinshasa) and in the Netherlands.
Died in Breda (Netherlands),
on September 14, 2025
at the age of 87.
Martin was born on March 20, 1938, in Oefelt, the Netherlands, but he grew up in Wanroij. The Vloet family owned a modest farm there, and the children learned the value of hard work from an early age. Martin was resourceful and developed a strong desire to become a missionary. Despite losing sight in one eye during a childhood accident, he was warmly welcomed by the Scheut Fathers at Sparrendaal.
After a year of probation, Martin took his vows and was accepted into the Scheutist missionary congregation. However, instead of being sent on a mission, he was asked to help Jens and Loida manage their farm in De Lutte. This was challenging because the farm was neglected, and the elderly couple was quite eccentric. Martin persevered with determination for a few years, but eventually, the situation became overwhelming. He wrote a letter to the Superior General in Rome, stating that he had joined Scheut to work in the mission, not on a farm. Otherwise, he would have been better off staying at home. The response came quickly: "You may leave for the mission in Congo." With that, his dream came true.
His first assignment was at the mission in Ngbosasa, where he was put in charge of a large herd of cattle, which was a significant source of income for the diocese. Under his management, the herd grew to 6,000 cows within a few years. However, his superiors recognized that Martin was capable of more. He had to say goodbye to his herd and helpers to take on the construction of schools and churches in other areas of the mission. They had never considered retraining him for this role. Martin immediately set to work on his new mission. With a team of skilled workers, he was active for years in the missions of Yakamba and Gemena, where he built schools, churches, and hospitals, showcasing his talent as a craftsman. Eventually, he was called to the capital, Kinshasa, where his expertise was needed for the construction of the Theophile Verbist Center.
Adapting to the bustling and chaotic life in Kinshasa was challenging for Martin. Once his construction project was completed, he felt it was time for a rest, so he decided to return to the Netherlands. At the monastery in Sparrendaal, Martin was a modest and helpful confrere, always ready to assist others. As a missionary, he skillfully combined a life of prayer and work. Known for his humility and work ethic, Martin did not earn his keep through idleness.
In 2008, when he moved to Teteringen, he took on new endeavors. From his small apartment on the second floor of building H in Zuiderhout, he engaged in various activities, including maintaining the small Mary chapel in the park, tending to a garden shed where he kept pigeons and chickens, and managing a workshop. However, as the years passed, he began to require more care. Eventually, he moved to the Mater Dei retirement home, a significant change for him. Unfortunately, he was unable to enjoy this new phase of life fully. Nevertheless, Martin had the opportunity to reflect on everything dear to him, marking the end of his remarkable journey as a missionary.
A faithful servant has returned to his Lord, whom he served throughout his life. I believe Martin was joyfully welcomed there. Our faith assures us that we will see him again one day. Until then, Martin, farewell. Until we meet again with God. Amen.
— Joep van Gaalen
