Page 1 - 2025 Brethren Home Position Statement

Positioning Statement:

The Brethren Home Foundation (TBHF) and Cross Keys Village-The Brethren Home Community (CKV-TBHC): Legal
Restructuring and Relationship Strengthening with the Southern Pennsylvania District Church of the Brethren (SOPA)

To solidify and clarify our overall governance structure, TBHF and CKV-TBHC are undergoing a legal restructuring of their
organizations. As part of this process, TBHF and CKV-TBHC will be moving toward a partnership versus agency
relationship with SOPA. This important step, guided by thoughtful consideration and sound legal counsel, is intended to
provide legal protection for SOPA, TBHF, and CKV-TBHC while preserving and reinforcing the meaningful relationship we
have built together over generations.

As it stands, the current membership relationship between SOPA and TBHF poses potential legal liability for SOPA
churches, church members, and other affiliated agencies. In today’s increasingly complex and regulated environment,
this legal connection presents growing risks to both parties. By undergoing this legal restructuring, we are taking a
proactive and protective measure—one that ensures we can carry out our mission responsibly while enhancing our
relationship with SOPA.

This change is not about moving away from our heritage. It is about honoring it in a way that allows TBHF, CKV-TBHC,
and SOPA to thrive. Our Brethren values continue to guide our work and our community life. We remain fully committed
to the principles of service, humility, and fellowship that have defined our mutually beneficial relationship from the
beginning.

We understand that a change like this may raise questions, particularly for those who care deeply about tradition and
SOPA’s long-standing role in the life of our organization. Please know that this decision was not made lightly and comes
only after careful reflection and consultation. It is our sincerest desire to protect what matters most—our people, our
mission, and our connection to SOPA.

Looking ahead, we are eager to continue working together in ways that enrich SOPA, TBHF, and CKV-TBHC. We value
open communication and welcome the opportunity to stay actively engaged in shared conversations, ministry efforts,
and events. Our intention is that this transition creates new opportunities for collaboration and growth, grounded in
mutual trust and a shared sense of purpose.

Tangible ways we intend to increase our relationship include the following:
• Sending communication updates via SOPA’s newsletter.
• Submitting regular information via the Village Voice newsletter for distribution to the churches.
• Attendance by TBHF and CKV-TBHC leadership at SOPA’s District Conference each year to provide updates similar
to other SOPA agencies.
• TBHF’s Vice President will meet with church pastors on an annual basis and also attend SOPA’s Executive
Committee’s board meeting annually.
• Accept SOPA Board nominations for consideration.
• TBHF’s and CKV-TBHC’s Board member orientations shall include instruction on the Church of the Brethren’s
values and mission, as well as TBHF’s and CKV-TBHC’s longstanding relationship with SOPA.
• Providing office space for SOPA on the CKV-TBHC campus.

SOPA ANNUAL DISTRICT CONFERENCE | September 19, 2025