CH-SH
Decree concerning public ecclesiastical corporations
Statutory Text (4 Articles)
1. Granting the rights of a public ecclesiastical corporation to a religious community is carried out by the Great Council upon the proposal of the Government Council.
1. Such a conferment can only take place with respect to those associations which
a) demonstrate a membership of at least 300 individuals
b) submit their organization, demonstrating
1. that it contains no provisions contrary to state legislation or inconsistent with the interests of morality and public order
2. that the permanent appointment of a state-certified clergyman is provided for
3. that the clergyman is elected by the church congregation
4. that his term of office is eight years[2]
5. that provision is made for meeting the church's needs, either through already existing or newly established funds, or by utilizing the taxing power of the members
1. Public ecclesiastical corporations are always subject to state legislation and the supervision of the government council (Articles 49-54 of the Constitution).
2. They must report annually to the government council using a uniform form.
3. The granting of public legal status to a religious corporation does not include any obligation for state support (Article 52 of the Constitution).
1. This Decree shall enter into force upon publication.