Since Life Church began in April 2006 we have not been a part of any association, denomination or larger body of churches. It hasn't been that we didn't want to associate with anyone, it's that we've been waiting for God to direct us to the right group with a common heart and vision. Over the last two years we have been connecting with a group of pastors around Indianapolis from a community of churches called Vineyard. Vineyard is a community of churches around the world that have existed for over 30 years, and Life Church has now joined the Vineyard.
Here are some highlights on why we have taken this step:
1) Resources - the Vineyard is very mature as an organization. They have weathered many storms, adapted to changes in culture, different movements of God and grown under different leadership. Due to their rich history, diverse churches, depth of talent, theological maturity, and heart for the Kingdom of God they have a wide assortment of resources that we can now access.
2) Relationships - this may be one of the most important factors, but relationally our DNA is closely aligned with who the Vineyard is. Our heart to serve, reach those that are far from God, create environments and opportunities for God to intersect people's lives, and focus on the Kingdom of God are all key elements of both Life Church and the Vineyard.
3) It's Biblical - there does seem to be a Biblical model of individual groups of believers being a part of something larger. I believe there is strength, covering, support, encouragement and greater potential in being a part of something larger then ourselves.
4) We Need It - We cannot do everything on our own that God is calling us to. To answer the call and vision God has given us as Life Church we must work closely with other churches and like minded people.
So what will change at Life Church? Not much. Our name stays the same, and we will remain independent from a government and financial standpoint. There will be no changes to leadership or staffing. In the months ahead you will see resources such as conferences, training and opportunities to serve as we work alongside other Vineyard churches.
Hey Scott,
I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know that I was actually baptized at the Vineyard Church in Ann Arbor, so that church group has a very special place in my heart. I'm glad that Life Church has found a community of churches it can call a home :)
Also wishing you well on your trip to Rwanda!
--Kati
Posted by: Kati Knight Tuttle | August 28, 2009 at 03:59 PM
Kati,
That's great to hear! The Ann Arbor Vineyard is a great church. Are you guys going to a Vineyard church now?
Scott
Posted by: Scott Himes | August 31, 2009 at 03:05 PM
I was heavily involved in the Bloomington Vineyard Community church and found it to be a big disappointment. If you new in the Lord and need kind people around, this is the church. However, you will not get strong leadership there or a clear vision of spiritual growth. I saw things go on there that till this day, I can't get out of my spirit. A woman attending with here two kids every week high on drugs--and driving. People who needed mentoring and failed to get it after referring their names to the pastor, music director, etc. Failure to keep the members of the congregration safe from occasional disturbed people who enter the church. It is very welcoming, but you need to go in with your eyes open.
I attended VLI and found that although my gift is teaching (I'm a college professor, the men received all of their mentoring time required of the program, but the women didn't. I guess this community wants it women to stay married, barefoot and pregnant. If you're single, this definitely isn't the place you want to be!
Posted by: Pamela Vincent | October 03, 2010 at 01:20 PM
Hi Pamela,
I'm sorry to hear about your experience at the Bloomington Vineyard. I've only been around the Vineyard for about three years now but I've found them to be very open to women in leadership and encouraging women to have roles such as church planting and speaking in public forums. I heard a lady speak a few months ago at the Columbus Vineyard that is the lead pastor of a new church plant that her and her husband are doing.
Scott
Posted by: Scott Himes | October 04, 2010 at 11:16 PM
I think it really comes down to the leadership of a church itself. I didn't find this one particularly strong in this area. That is probably one reason the church has less attendees now and other area churches are becoming Vineyard Community Churches. Just my hunch.
Posted by: Pamela Vincent | January 13, 2011 at 05:31 PM