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A Miracle
A Miracle
March 1, 2024

Jay Pathak, the National Director of Vineyard USA says it well. He says, “when people enter into life with Jesus, it is a miracle. It’s not a series of intellectual decisions. We believe that the Scriptures teach that someone is literally born again spiritually. It is a miracle!

Vineyard.Online: What is it? Why does it matter?
Vineyard.Online: What is it? Why does it matter?
March 1, 2024

Approaching the discipleship process solely in a synchronous model (in-person church activity a few times a month), while people are being “discipled” by their choice of content on YouTube, Tik Tok, audiobooks or Netflix for hours on end now seems ill-advised.

Why do churches seemingly talk about money so often?
Why do churches seemingly talk about money so often?
February 29, 2024

But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. --Matthew 6:20 

Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday
January 25, 2024

What became real for me was realizing that it is a good thing to engage in a practice that will help me connect with God, even if it seems strange at first.

Embracing Our Immigrant Neighbors
Embracing Our Immigrant Neighbors
December 18, 2023

Every 9 am on Wednesdays at the Vineyard Community Center, I lead an ESL women’s conversation hour for students who are interested in practicing their English-speaking skills and in building community. In this space, we talk, cry, laugh, and celebrate with one another.

Great Joy
Great Joy
November 29, 2023

Last week I got my big winter coat with its furry hood out of the closet. I even tracked down my mittens and a hat. I couldn’t find my scarf, so I got out my knitting needles and started to knit myself a new scarf (I know, I know, I’m an odd duck!) The winter chill is upon us, th

The Gift of a Spiritual Renovation
The Gift of a Spiritual Renovation
November 2, 2023

"Walk in the way of love and eagerly desire the gifts of the spirit." (1 Corinthians 14:1)In a few weeks, church, we will gather to pray “Come Holy Spirit” yet again, to be encouraged by worship and teaching, and to spend extended time in ministry.

On Mission: Learning to Lead 
On Mission: Learning to Lead 
October 2, 2023

“And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.” (Luke 2:40) Notice this: Jesus also had to grow and develop just like us. 

On Mission, work, and prayer.
On Mission, work, and prayer.
August 10, 2023

How are you as a Christian, and how are we as a church community, going to walk forward in faith, empowered by God’s Spirit to be the body of Christ in the world?

Salt and Light
Salt and Light
July 17, 2023

At Vineyard Columbus, we value mercy, justice, and the progress of the Gospel in the world. We believe we are called to be engaged in the world around us as “salt and light,” expressing the love of God through good works such as providing for those in need...

April 2023 | Flourishing Relationships
April 2023 | Flourishing Relationships
April 6, 2023

One of the things I value most about Vineyard Columbus is our invitation to “come as you are”, while providing next steps for continued growth.

Looking Ahead to Watch Night
Looking Ahead to Watch Night
December 15, 2022

If you’ve never been to a Watch Night service at Vineyard Columbus you are missing out. Watch Night is one of the best things we do, and this year’s event is no exception.

Journey with us this Advent | Video Devotionals and Worship
Journey with us this Advent | Video Devotionals and Worship
November 23, 2022

When was the last time you had a conversation about God?

Why I Love Alpha Us
Why I Love Alpha Us
September 6, 2022

After a lot of hard work and preparation, Vineyard Columbus is a few weeks away from launching its first all-church Alpha campaign.

Tips for Having a Great Back-to-School Experience
Tips for Having a Great Back-to-School Experience
August 29, 2022

We’re all seeing and responding to the annual call back to school. This American ritual is alive and well in central Ohio, and many of our Vineyard Columbus families are in full back-to-school mode.

One Cool Story and Three Great Reasons to Serve
One Cool Story and Three Great Reasons to Serve
August 16, 2022

Why should we serve, you might ask? Aren’t our lives busy enough? Let me give you three good reasons why Jesus calls us to serve.

 VC High School and Middle School Camp Is Back
VC High School and Middle School Camp Is Back
July 13, 2022

From lifelong friendships and encounters with God to late nights, long talks, epic water battles and even more epic worship, there’s a lot to love about church camp and this year’s Vineyard Columbus high school and middle school camps are no exception.

AAPI Story Spotlight
AAPI Story Spotlight
May 16, 2022

Suffice to say, intentionality matters. Showing up with a posture of curiosity matters. Showing up in inclusive ways to represent the kingdom of God matters.

Lord, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.
May 15, 2022

We are horrified by and grieving for the loss of life in Buffalo. And we are exhausted by the familiarity of this story, and the violence, racially motivated hatred, and lasting damage that it entails.

On Holy Week and the Power of Going Back
On Holy Week and the Power of Going Back
April 14, 2022

He went back so that we too might also return to the One who we have abandoned and forsaken.

How To Give A 5-Word Bedtime Blessing
How To Give A 5-Word Bedtime Blessing
March 18, 2022

When your child lies down at bedtime, tell them that you are going to give them a blessing. Explain that you will draw a cross (or a heart) on their forehead or on the back of their hand as you say a special blessing for them. Let them choose where they want it drawn, or not. Be

Advent Series - Week 3
Advent Series - Week 3
December 10, 2021

"A Love that Makes Room for Difference" Read 1 Peter 4:8-10

In the beginning, God created. Reflections on VC's commitment to valuing life.
In the beginning, God created. Reflections on VC's commitment to valuing life.
December 4, 2021

At Vineyard Columbus, our value life ethic extends meaningfully in multiple directions: Toward protecting the unborn, whom we believe are made in the image of God just as much as their mamas.

Could conversations at holiday gatherings be different this year?
Could conversations at holiday gatherings be different this year?
December 1, 2021

While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Changes Coming to Our Food Pantries
Changes Coming to Our Food Pantries
November 4, 2021

Started by the vision and dedicated mission of a single mother distributing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, the pantry has now grown into a functioning center of ministry for the poor and unsheltered in our city.

What Truly Matters
What Truly Matters
November 1, 2021

The holidays are near and it’s a wonderful time to begin reflecting on not only how we will spend our time this season but also how we have “spent” our time all year long.

Thanksgiving is the Most Important Holiday of 2021!
Thanksgiving is the Most Important Holiday of 2021!
October 27, 2021

The healing of diverse people starts in the heart of His followers first being thankful. Humility is fruit of a thankful lifestyle.

God Cares For Your Life!
God Cares For Your Life!
October 6, 2021

Whatever weighs you down, remember that God cares for you. The Bible tells us that when are weary and worn, God will give us rest for our souls. It reminds us that even when we are downcast, we can exchange our mourning for dancing.

Family is…What Family Does
Family is…What Family Does
October 1, 2021

There is not one family that is perfect, without its share of hardships. Every family comes with its own set of principles that make them unique and set apart from another family.

Grandview Campus Launch Update
Grandview Campus Launch Update
September 28, 2021

I have some big news about our campus launch timeline. After speaking with the leadership of Vineyard Columbus, we have made the difficult decision to postpone our campus launch.

Marker of Health
Marker of Health
September 2, 2021

Generosity has been a healthy mark of our church’s health in the past, and it continues to be a mark of health today.

A Time to Listen
A Time to Listen
September 1, 2021

We get to listen to one another, but before we can listen effectively, we should examine if anything is getting in the way of our ability, desire, and/or decision to do so.

All the King’s Horses and All the King’s Men
All the King’s Horses and All the King’s Men
August 31, 2021

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.

Jumping into Next Gen: Our NEW Strategy for Discipling our Students
Jumping into Next Gen: Our NEW Strategy for Discipling our Students
August 6, 2021

Our goal is to make our students life-long disciples of Jesus who are meaningfully connected to the local church.

Stepping into Next Gen
Stepping into Next Gen
August 5, 2021

We have an amazing opportunity as the church to be an orientating space in a disorienting world!

Come Find Connection and Purpose in God’s Presence
Come Find Connection and Purpose in God’s Presence
July 23, 2021

On January 23, 2022, Vineyard Columbus is launching a brand-new campus in the heart of the city.

The Power of a Believer
The Power of a Believer
July 22, 2021

Over this past year, one thing has been abundantly clear: Being uncomfortable leads to change.

Everything you want to know about the Grandview Campus Launch Team
Everything you want to know about the Grandview Campus Launch Team
July 22, 2021

Well, maybe not everything – that’s a tall order. But we can certainly cover MOST of what you want to know.

How Can I Get to Know My Neighbors?
How Can I Get to Know My Neighbors?
July 13, 2021

How Can I Get to Know My Neighbors? Answer: Walk!

Self-Examination
Self-Examination
June 22, 2021

From the earliest time you can remember, did you want to be like everyone else? Or did you just want to be accepted as you were, for being yourself?

Exercise Your Core
Exercise Your Core
June 15, 2021

I recently heard a story about the importance of having a strong core. The speaker shared how he had a strong dislike for going to the gym. And while he was paying his trainer to get him healthy and fit, he hated the workouts he was forced to do.

Six Ways to Be a Good Messenger
Six Ways to Be a Good Messenger
June 11, 2021

Billy Graham was one of the most influential and well-known Christians. He counseled 12 American presidents. He was on the cover of national and international magazines. He regularly topped lists of the most admired people in America or the world.

Event of the Summer
Event of the Summer
June 11, 2021

Expectations are high for the return of VC summer camp.

COVID’s Effects on Marriage
COVID’s Effects on Marriage
June 3, 2021

One of the biggest areas impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic has been marriage & family relationships. I look at the last fourteen months as a Generational Storm that will take years to fully understand its impact on relationships and family life.

He Knows My Name
He Knows My Name
May 21, 2021

When I was young, I would say to my grandmother, “Hey Grandmama! It’s so good to see you!” She would reply with a smile and with grace filled confidence as she said, “It’s good to be seen.”

Why We Need to Celebrate the Sages in Our Midst
Why We Need to Celebrate the Sages in Our Midst
May 7, 2021

When I first came to Vineyard Columbus in 1994, I was barely in my twenties, and the “old people” in the church were just entering their forties.

You are Appreciated
You are Appreciated
April 26, 2021

Mother’s Day is designed to be a time where we celebrate the gift of motherhood! For some, this means carrying life or birthing life into this world and for others, it means receiving life to love and nurture or remembering a loved one through their legacy.

Community Response
Community Response
April 21, 2021

Yesterday, a jury in Minneapolis found former police officer Derek Chauvin guilty of three charges in the murder of George Floyd. And while the verdict was being shared, a sixteen-year-old girl was killed by an officer responding to a 911 call on Columbus’ Southeast Side.

Rooted in Christ
Rooted in Christ
April 21, 2021

“Jesus is our Risen King!” I often repeat this to myself slowly to fully absorb what this means for me and believers everywhere. I revisit the reasons why His resurrection was the ultimate game-changer for us as His creation!

"Let's Rebuild" Sermon Graphic Artwork
"Let's Rebuild" Sermon Graphic Artwork
April 20, 2021

Vineyard Columbus member, Cody Miller, allowed us to use an image he created for our sermon series, Let's Rebuild. Cody has received numerous awards and honors for his work. You can read his official artist statement (below) or learn more about him on his website.

Let's Rebuild!
Let's Rebuild!
April 9, 2021

Years ago, Eric and I purchased our first house: a 100-year-old farmhouse on an acre of land complete with a little pond. Before you imagine something really amazing, keep this in mind: we were 22 years old and still students at Ohio State.

What if I invite but they say “no”?
What if I invite but they say “no”?
April 6, 2021

New research is showing that postmodernists are much more open to spiritual conversations, and even an invitation to church, than we think! Wow, does that surprise you?

The Welcoming Prayer
The Welcoming Prayer
April 2, 2021

The Welcoming Prayer is a well-known part of the contemplative Christian movement and is focused on our becoming aware of and engaged with God’s presence in all our circumstances.

Sister, pick up your crown
Sister, pick up your crown
March 19, 2021

It’s Women’s History Month, Sisters. And for many of us, March rolls right on by without a second thought of the significance of these 31 days. To be clear, no one month designation could ever encompass the impact of women biblically, historically, or in our contemporary times.

Prayer of Healing for Our Asian Community
Prayer of Healing for Our Asian Community
March 19, 2021

In 1 Corinthians 12:26 we read of the community of Christ: If one part suffers, every part suffers with it.

The Story Lent is Offering To Us Today
The Story Lent is Offering To Us Today
March 17, 2021

The past year has left an imprint on all of us – especially on our time. More than ever, we desire a sense of normalcy and some semblance of control over our time. Regularity and rhythm are byproducts of a life ordered around the story of God.

Vineyard Community Center continued to provide services to 900 patients
Vineyard Community Center continued to provide services to 900 patients
March 15, 2021

In 1988, Vineyard Columbus launched Fruit of Vine Food Pantry at Fifth Avenue. Shortly thereafter, in February of 1994, two physicians launched Vineyard Columbus’ free health clinics at the Food Pantry.

Three Radical Practices for the Season of Lent
Three Radical Practices for the Season of Lent
March 5, 2021

Lent reminds us that the landscapes of practice and preparation are central to our Christian faith. Most of us prefer the idea of setting up camp on the mountaintop, focusing in on the moments of achievement, success, or completion.

We Can Change
We Can Change
February 26, 2021

Sisters, the month of February has been dedicated to honoring the achievements of African American men and women to U.S. history because, too often, hard work and contributions were not recognized.

Ten Years of Ash Wednesday
Ten Years of Ash Wednesday
February 16, 2021

Ten years ago around this time the boy I liked asked me to go to his church’s Ash Wednesday service. I said yes, of course, because I liked the boy. I wore ripped jeans and a light blue t-shirt that said “do everything in love” in bold type, and a ratty pink zip-up hoodie.

Three Stories from Church History That We Cannot Ignore
Three Stories from Church History That We Cannot Ignore
February 3, 2021

Christians ought to care about history because we believe in a sovereign God who calls us to repent of, and not repeat, the sins from our past. God makes us aware of the past in order to work with us in the present to bring about the reality of his kingdom in the future.

Caring for People with Mental Health Concerns
Caring for People with Mental Health Concerns
January 27, 2021

For many years, there have been different stigmas and connotations associated with mental health. This world can be a hard and stressful place to live and it’s important to acknowledge that mental health difficulties are real and prevalent.

Will You Say “Yes”?
Will You Say “Yes”?
January 22, 2021

I never thought in a million years that I would walk away from my corporate career of nearly 17 years and say “yes” to whatever and wherever the Lord was leading me.

A letter from Columbus faith leaders calling for reform and justice.
A letter from Columbus faith leaders calling for reform and justice.
December 31, 2020

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul tells us that the God-given role of the government is to “hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong.” In other words, people who are doing the right thing ought not to live in fear of being harmed by the authorities.

Advent Series - Christmas Day
Advent Series - Christmas Day
December 23, 2020

Merry Christmas! Spend some time reflecting on the birth of Christ today as you read the passage below.

Things I Learned from 2020
Things I Learned from 2020
December 22, 2020

“Pain is not the worst thing—wasted pain is!”

Advent Series - Week 4
Advent Series - Week 4
December 17, 2020

"Making Room for Possibility" Read Isaiah 43:18-19

Plan Well Before You Go!
Plan Well Before You Go!
December 15, 2020

Vineyard Columbus has a free gift for you; one with no strings attached. We believe in estate planning stewardship so strongly that we provide a way for you to obtain wills, trusts, and healthcare documents at no cost to you.

Columbus Area Faith Leaders Respond to the Loss of Casey Goodson
Columbus Area Faith Leaders Respond to the Loss of Casey Goodson
December 10, 2020

Today as we pen this letter, the Christian Church is fully in the season of Advent, that season on the calendar of the Church that observes and celebrates the birth of our Lord and the coming of the Christ child into the world and into our lives.

Advent Series - Week 2
Advent Series - Week 2
December 3, 2020

“Creating Space for Hope” Read Ephesians 1:15-23

The Spiritual Discipline of Pause
The Spiritual Discipline of Pause
December 2, 2020

I’m sure many would agree that American culture places a high value on accomplishment. Many would also agree that constant “doing” comes at price, most often, relational erosion. We can lose an awareness of God, of others, and even of ourselves.

A Prayer for Wisdom
A Prayer for Wisdom
December 2, 2020

In Psalm 90, we encounter Moses, man of God, reflecting on long and painful years where, along with God’s people, he had experienced both the sustained hardship of their wilderness wanderings, as well as the heavy hand of God’s discipline in the face of their sin.

Darkness and Light
Darkness and Light
December 2, 2020

As we enter Advent, the season in which we anticipate Christ’s arrival, I find myself thinking about Daylight Savings Time—probably because I’m sitting down to write this as my husband sets a reminder on his watch to turn our clocks back tonight.

Financial Freedom VC Style!
Financial Freedom VC Style!
December 2, 2020

The mission statement for Vineyard Columbus is: “To develop communities of disciples who experience God, love one another, and partner with Christ to heal the world.”

Reasons to Hope for a Bright Future
Reasons to Hope for a Bright Future
November 25, 2020

This past year has provided pessimists with fresh reasons to describe themselves not as pessimists, but as “realists”. Over the past two decades, for the first time in American history (other than during major wars), the life expectancy of white middle-aged men has fallen.

Advent Series - Week 1
Advent Series - Week 1
November 23, 2020

“Making Room for Jesus” Read Luke 2:4-7

In Sync with God
In Sync with God
November 17, 2020

I love Monday Night Football, mostly because it offers one of the week’s best match ups in the NFL. This past weekend (November 5-7) offered lots of great football moments.

The Legacy I Hope to Leave Behind
The Legacy I Hope to Leave Behind
November 17, 2020

In a little less than two months I will officially retire as Women’s Pastor and the leader of Women’s Ministry at Vineyard Columbus. I say officially because I don’t believe we ever truly retire from Christian service.

A Prayer of Consecration
A Prayer of Consecration
November 9, 2020

Oh God, our Father, in these days of anxiety and turmoil we come to you and you alone as our hope and our protection.

How We Are Experiencing God's Grace in the Midst of Transition
How We Are Experiencing God's Grace in the Midst of Transition
October 31, 2020

Last month, Pastor Rich wrote an article called "How am I Experiencing Letting Go of the Role of Senior Pastor?" Like him, Eric and I are asked by folks all the time about our own experience of this transition process…. "How are you guys managing all of this unrest?!"

A Faith that Assumes Everything
A Faith that Assumes Everything
October 31, 2020

Our family enjoys spending time in Maine. On our last trip, we visited the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, which sits on the coastline, above the Atlantic Ocean. The day we visited the wind was whipping and the sea was churning. The water was rough, and the waves were crashing into th

We Are Community – A Reflection from Our Outdoor Service
We Are Community – A Reflection from Our Outdoor Service
October 31, 2020

Vineyard Columbus has taken a cautious and prayerful approach to how we can stay connected during a time in which many of us are longing for closeness with our church community.

Praying for others – 2020 Style!
Praying for others – 2020 Style!
October 31, 2020

Has the lockdown made you feel isolated and lonely? Are situations in the world making you fearful? Does remote schooling or working from home have you on the verge of madness? Are you experiencing health or financial stress? You don't have to face these issues alone.

Singleness…and the blessings that come with it
Singleness…and the blessings that come with it
October 31, 2020

Two years ago, my life drastically changed, and I now find myself in a season of life that I didn’t ask to be in and didn’t want to be in, honestly.

Connecting With Others
Connecting With Others
October 30, 2020

Have you been telling yourself for a few years that you’ve always wanted to learn how to pray? Do you feel a call to leadership? Has God revealed the desire for more emotional resilience? Considering priorities and purpose is done best in meaningful relationships with others.

Home Sweet Home
Home Sweet Home
October 27, 2020

The story of Transitions Ministry first started in late 2015, when we began to explore where we could fill a void in the poverty of our city.

Peacemaking is the Heart of the Gospel
Peacemaking is the Heart of the Gospel
September 30, 2020

E Pluribus Unum, which is Latin for "Out of many, one", is the traditional motto of the United States before Congress adopted "In God we trust" as our official motto in 1956.

Encountering the Kingdom of God
Encountering the Kingdom of God
September 30, 2020

Our family recently returned to Columbus from Vancouver (Canada) where we were church planting for the last 5 years. I have lived in many places in my life, and I have to tell you that Vancouver is one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

To Everything a Season
To Everything a Season
September 30, 2020

It is October and autumn is officially upon us — creating great joy for those of us who despise the heat and a sense of impending doom for those who hate to see it go.

A Call to Surrender
A Call to Surrender
September 30, 2020

I was born in Merida, Venezuela. I was raised in a Catholic home, where we went to church only for weddings. I am the oldest of 4 siblings. My parents divorced when I was a teenager. I saw my mother and my youngest sisters suffering from his absence.

The 5 C's of Godly Decision Making
The 5 C's of Godly Decision Making
September 30, 2020

It is easier to make a good decision than to unwind a bad one. Christian leaders can relate to being asked for advise much more often with untangling the negative consequences.

How am I Experiencing Letting Go of the Role of Senior Pastor?
How am I Experiencing Letting Go of the Role of Senior Pastor?
September 30, 2020

On a fairly regular basis, someone inside or outside of Vineyard Columbus will ask me, “How are you doing, Rich? How are you doing with the upcoming transition from your role as Senior Pastor?” My simple answer, in a word, is “Great! I’m doing amazing!"

Anxiety and God's Presence
Anxiety and God's Presence
September 3, 2020

Most of the people who come to our counselors at the Vineyard Counseling Center come with one fundamental problem, anxiety. This is because anxiety is an underlying component in almost every other diagnosis, symptom or mood disorder people have.

Tips for Distance Learning
Tips for Distance Learning
September 3, 2020

Sherry, a long-time homeschooler, shares ways to create amazing memories and ways parents can even thrive with homeschooling.

You Are Equipped to Disciple Your Kids
You Are Equipped to Disciple Your Kids
September 3, 2020

In spite of all the confusion and anxiety swirling around us, it is crucial to remember that we serve a God who is always the same, He never changes. He is not confused or surprised by this.

Your Marriage & the Pandemic
Your Marriage & the Pandemic
July 30, 2020

Every time I hear the term, "new normal", it implies that many of the things I enjoy about life are unavailable and may never return. The pandemic has robbed so many people of peace, security, and purpose that it triggers a survival instinct.

The Problem & Promise of Pain
The Problem & Promise of Pain
July 29, 2020

We can meet with God in our pain. God himself stands with the weeping and the wounded. And when we find ourselves there, we find ourselves in close proximity to Him.

Answering Objections to my Message about George Floyd’s Murder
Answering Objections to my Message about George Floyd’s Murder
July 6, 2020

On the weekend of June 5, I preached a message titled "How Should the Evangelical Church Respond to the Murder of George Floyd?" If you haven’t had the opportunity to listen to my message you can find it here. The response to this message was overwhelmingly positive.

A “Simple” God for Not So Simple Times
A “Simple” God for Not So Simple Times
June 11, 2020

A few days after the murder of George Floyd, she said to me, “I feel like there’s this war within me. On the one hand, as a Christian woman, I want to love and forgive. On the other hand, I’m so angry right now. I have this battle raging inside of me.” Love versus anger.

Prayer and Anxiety
Prayer and Anxiety
June 8, 2020

Most of the people who come to our counselors at the Vineyard Counseling Center come with one fundamental problem, anxiety. This is because anxiety is an underlying component in almost every other diagnosis, symptom or mood disorder people have.