FAQ's
(Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the Church of the Brethren?
2. Does the College require students to attend chapel or take courses in religion?
3. What is the College's relationship to the Church of the Brethren?
4. What are the religious traditions practiced by student on campus?
5. Are there any special considerations for Church of the Brethren Students?
6. How can I get more information?
7. Who are the Brethren?
What is the Church of the Brethren?
Elizabethtown College was founded by members of the Church of the Brethren, an Anabaptist and Pietist denomination of Protestant Christianity. The Church of the Brethren subscribes to the major doctrines of Christianity. A noncreedal church, the Church of the Brethren adheres to the New Testament as its rule of faith and practice. The Church of the Brethren is a historic peace church. In addition to peace, another key value of the Church of the Brethren is service. The College’s motto is “Educate for Service.” Both peace and service in the Brethren tradition flow from following the way of Jesus and continuing the work he began.TOP
Does the College require students to attend chapel or take courses in religion?
While many fine courses are offered in the Religious Studies Department and weekly on-campus Protestant and Catholic services are held, Elizabethtown College does not require students to take theology & religion courses or attend chapel services.TOP
What is the College’s relationship to the Church of the Brethren?
Church and College officials meet once per semester in a meeting called the Church-College Mutual Expectations Committee. The College employs a part-time Director of Church Relations, Allen T. Hansell. For more specific information, please contact hansella@etown.edu
In addition, the Chaplain works with programs for and by the Church of the Brethren, especially on campus. For example, Joel and Bev Eikenberry presented to the campus regarding their Brethren Volunteer Service years at the World Friendship Center in Japan. The Chaplain continue to work with the Alumni Peace Fellowship Network and the Center for Global Citizenship to plan the Fall 2006 Peace Residency and Lecture Series by Andy Murray of Juniata College.
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What are the religious traditions practiced by students on campus?
A majority of students come from one of the many different denominations of Christianity. There are also students from a variety of world religions, including, but not limited to Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam.
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Are there special considerations for Church of the Brethren Students?
They a eligible for a special scholarship program. Details are available from the Office of Financial Aid, 717-361-1404
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How can I get more information?
Visit or call the Office of the Chaplain & Director of Religious Life at 717-361-1260, chaplain@etown.edu.
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