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 and works closely with the Young Center whose mission is to foster and promote the scholarly study of Anabaptist and Pietist groups.
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."
News & Events
October 26, 2009 - The Mutual Expectations Committee will have a breakfast meeting at 8:00 a.m. in Brossman Commons.
Dates for additional Congregational Cohort Groups
October 31, 2009 - Cohort Group II
March 27, 2010 - Cohort Group III
November 7, 2009 – Congregational Representatives will gather in the Susquehanna Room in Myer Hall from 8:15 through lunch. Needs related to Admissions, Religious Life on campus and finances will be addressed. President Long will address will bring a message to the representatives.
Check back frequently for more information on Fall events!
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.
