Thinking about becoming a member of Martin Luther Church? Please read the information below:
What is required to become a member?
The most important first step to being a member is to be baptized. You can be baptized at any age. If you wish to be baptized as an adult, you will have the opportunity to learn about the Christian faith in conversations with our pastor before your official baptism.
If you are baptized, you can become a member through confirmation, providing an affirmation of faith, OR transferring to the church from another Lutheran congregation. The Congregational Council will then admit you into membership during a church service (don’t worry, you won’t need to make a speech).
Download Membership Form
Download Baptism Form for Children
Download Baptism Form for Adults
What rights and responsibilities go along with membership?
Members of our congregation strive to support and participate in worship and the life of the congregation. Regular attendance of services and communication with the church office and leadership (e.g., Council / Pastor) is highly encouraged. You must also participate in Holy Communion at least once a year. (* Please request a visit by the Pastor if you are unable to attend worship in person.)
Perhaps you will also find an area of our congregation you’d like to participate in. Is there a program you are interested in? A congregation lives off the people who – based on their personal strengths – shape it. We are grateful for the time and talents of members who help our church thrive.
As an active member of our congregation, you can make decisions about the life of our church, elect the church council, or nominate yourself at the Annual General Meeting. According to our constitution, you need to be at least 18 years of age to vote.
Is there a membership fee?
There is no membership fee or set amount you have to donate, yet we still rely on donations from our members and friends to continue offering our programs.
The main way we support the work of our congregation is through Pre-Authorized Remittance (PAR) and the collection during services. For other methods, please see our Donation page.
We are registered as a charitable organization so your donations are tax deductible.
If you don’t pay taxes in Germany…
…then you also don’t have to pay church taxes in Canada. If you are used to paying the church tax in Germany, consider donating the same amount to your church in Canada.
For your reference: The church tax, depending on the region in Germany, is generally 7-9% of your salary or income tax amount.