The study shows that "most Dutch are now unbelievers" and that "a quarter of the church buildings no longer have a church function." Which raises the question what are the places that people seek "for fulfilling emotional, spiritual and social needs" and also what those needs are.

That is first and foremost a need for peace, as it turns out. And tranquility people seek especially in nature, where they also seek inspiration, joy, comfort and connection to a greater whole. They find joy in theatre, cinema and catering, inspiration also in museums. Religious buildings are there for comfort and, as in nature, for rest and connection to a greater whole.

But compared to nature and going out, religious buildings as a place to go to are not used much. No more than a third of the respondents say "at least once a year" to enter a religious building. From the study: "Those who do so have different reasons for this, according to the open follow-up question. In addition to confessing the faith, this is mainly done out of interest in the architecture or artistic and cultural aspects of the buildings. In addition, reflection, peace, inspiration, comfort and remembrance are mentioned. Some go there especially for special occasions, such as a marriage or funeral."

What stands out: Young people more often than older people want an empty religious building to retain its religious function (19 percent of 18-34 year olds versus 10 percent of 50+). Young people also consider that the preservation of religious buildings is a public task.