Partners in Ministry
Heartland Conference United Church of Christ-Evangelische Church in Westphalia (Germany)
For more than 25 years the Heartland Conference, along with other UCC Conferences, and the Evangelische Kirche in Westphalia, Germany have been in full communion relationship. We share common heritage, similar views on what it means to be a church in the world, and we strive to work together on deepening our friendships between churches and countries.
There are different ways in which you can participate:

Members of First UCC Berea enjoy a German-style BBQ during a visit to Thomaskirche in Bergkamen, Germany.
Become a Sister Church. Join other congregations as they live out this relationship and develop a partnership with a sister church in Westphalia
Join the Young Ambassadors Program. The Heartland-German Youth Partnership Initiative, started in 2014, focuses on building relationships, learning about a different culture, and providing opportunities for youth and young adults to practice the art of being an ambassador for Christ. Contact persons are: Rev. Dan Doty ddoty66@gmail.com or Rev. Bob Tussing rctuss@sbcglobal.net
Take a Pastoral Internship. Pastors may arrange to work in a parish, social project, or mission undertaking in Germany. These experiences are arranged through the Heartland Conference German Working Group,
Join the Pastoral Exchange Program. A pastor may arrange to exchange places with a German pastor for a shorter or longer period of time.
You will surprised to learn how much this partnership unites our churches and how easily deep friendships across the Atlantic can develop.
For more information about the partnership, contact:
Partnership Chairperson, Rev. Dr. Sigrid Rother
- Email: sigrid@westervillecucc.org
- Phone: 614-882-7056
or the Heartland Conference Minister
- Email: office@heartlanducc.org
- Phone: 800.282.0740 Ext. 1