For centuries the Grote or Sint Janskerk has played an important role in Schiedam. As a church and as a central place in social life. It was not only a church, but also a public space where many activities took place. 

The church was owned by the city of Schiedam. With the separation of church and state, the church building became the property of the Nederlandsche Hervormde Kerk (except for the tower), and its social role declined. Sometimes large-scale gatherings were held at commemorations and official events, but the building was mainly used as a church.

In 2011, the management of the building was transferred to an independent, non-ecclesiastical foundation. This foundation aims to exploit the building as a social, cultural and ecclesiastical center at the service of society. In addition, the foundation wants to propagate and strengthen the historical, spatial and architectural significance of the building, and is responsible for the regular maintenance of this national monument. The Grote- or St. Janskerk in Schiedam, abbreviated Stichting Sint Janskerk Schiedam, was founded on June 27, 2011. The board consists of volunteers.