Dutch Reformed Church

Dutch Reformed Church

The magnificent Dutch Reformed Church in Heidelberg, Western Cape, dwarfs all other historical buildings in the town beside the N2 highway.

The Dutch Reformed Church in Heidelberg had its beginnings because of a need for a church and school. This need arose fromout the local farming community in 1855.

On January 13, 1856, the first members of the consistory were installed. The first four children were baptised in the old School Church. The need for a larger building arose and the foundation stone for the new Church building was laid. This happened on March 17, 1872.

The silver communion-chalices and the baptismal font were being ordered from London. The Church building was consecrated on July 19, 1873.

Sited in large grounds at the town’s centre, the grey-and-white Gothic-style structure was begun in 1913. It was build to replace the old building, which had become dilapidated.

The bell of the church bears the words “But the word of the Lord remains for all eternity”. The building says much about the wealth of the community who contributed to the cost of its construction.

The foundation stone was laid on March, 22 1913.

As with most towns in this area the Dutch Reformed Church played a large role in its growth and this beautiful church is the hub of the town.

Die indrukwekkende grys-en-wit Gotiese-styl gebou van die NG Kerk in Heidelberg, Wes-Kaap verdwerg behoorlik die ander historiese geboue in die dorp. Die hoeksteen van hierdie kerk is gelê op 22 Maart 1913.