The Office of Church Relations is part of the Institutional Advancement division at Elizabethtown College and is a bridge between the college and the two Church of the Brethren districts—Atlantic Northeast and Southern Pennsylvania. The term “bridge” implies a connection between the college and the church, with the goal of improving communication, mutual respect and support, and interaction. This office also relates to other church offices throughout the Church of the Brethren denomination as needs and issues arise.
Elizabethtown College Church of the Brethren History
The roots of Elizabethtown College are firmly planted in the tradition of the Church of the Brethren. The Brethren values of peace, justice, and human dignity are central in the life of the College. The College strives to awaken the consciences of its members without binding them. The founders of the College were clear that their task was to prepare students for the world of work and to anchor them in the world of the spirit. Elizabethtown College fulfills that mission by offering students a dynamic learning environment that fosters sound intellectual judgment, deepens moral sensitivity, and engenders a sense of stewardship in the appreciation of the world's beauty and resources. Elizabethtown encourages its graduates to live their education in service and to become the living embodiment of the College motto, "Educate for Service."
For more information, please contact:
Donna F Steiner
Director of Church Relations
Elizabethtown College
Phone: 717-361-1257
E-mail: steinerd@etown.edu
Ms. Steiner
received a bachelor’s
degree in Music Education from Drake University and holds a Masters of
Religious Education from Bethany Theological Seminary. Donna
began her ministry in 1964, serving as Minister of Christian Education
for the
Palmyra Church of the Brethren. She has served the Church of the
Brethren in various ministerial and leadership roles in several states.
From 1997 through 2002, Donna served as Associate Executive, Atlantic
Northeast District COB and worked closely with Al Hansell during his
tenure as
District Executive. Since 2003 Donna has served as Interim Pastor for
the
Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren and Summer Pastor for the Palmyra
COB and
Reading COB. Donna has conducted workshops, retreats and leadership
sessions in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Virginia. She is well
known and respected in the congregations and Districts she has served.
