This action research qualitative phenomenological case study investigated a relationship between one MidWestern Non-Denominational/Church of Christ church and a public elementary school. The purpose was to discover how church-school partnerships can initiate relationships that result in support of the partnering school. The phenomenological approach to qualitative research allowed the lived experiences of fourteen participants from both the church and school in the relationship to describe the specific partnership. Googins and Rochlin's (2000) work in cross-sectoral relationships were used to develop themes and suggestions for continuing relationships. Findings include the importance of mutually invested individuals, resource confusion, and levering of social needs. Research is needed on cross-sector partnerships that include religious organizations and schools addressing an additional organizational theory. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]