How Church Membership Works
As an independent church in Germany the legal entity of church is registered as a Verein (The German word for association that all clubs and organizations must register as).
The official name of our Verein is: "The Verein der Freunde und Förderer der englischen Kirche Heidelberg e.V." (Friends and Patrons of the English Church Heidelberg).
By returning a completed Verein Application Form and contributing €30 you become a member of the Verein. Any donations using a bank transfer can be deducted from taxes payable in Germany.
Although a part of The Church of England, Diocese in Europe, we are self-financing and therefore dependant on donations from our members and visitors. If you intend to give regularly, it is advised to arrange with Elaine, the president of the Verein, to start automatic transfers with which donations are eligible for tax refunds.
The Electoral Roll
As part of The Church of England, it is required that we maintain an Electoral Roll. Membership on The Electoral Roll gives you the right to vote at the Annual Chaplaincy Meeting, to elect and to be elected an officer of the church.