The Association of Vineyard Churches is a diverse group of churches that partner together to advance the kingdom of God by communicating the Gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed. Through many expressions, Vineyard churches aim to:

* Worship God and stand on the ancient truth of the Scripture, the guide for faith, life, and service.

* Grow as a people of both the Word and Spirit, imbued with power for the purpose of making and nurturing mature disciples of Jesus Christ.

* Create reproducing missional communities of worship, discipleship, evangelism and service.

* Serve the Father in the power of the Spirit, following Jesus� holistic and incarnational ministry of proclaiming and manifesting the kingdom of God.

(For a bit of backstory on the Vineyard in Gadsden, see the June 2005 newsletter.)

John Wimber, founder of the Vineyard movement, outlined 10 areas of ministry that are essential to any Vineyard church. He called them the Vineyard Genetic Code because they are the common denominators that identify us as a family. So, a Vineyard experience typically includes:

* Clear, accurate, Biblical teaching

* Contemporary worship in the freedom of the Holy Spirit

* The gifts of the Holy Spirit in operation

* An active small group ministry

* Ministry to the poor, widows, orphans and those who are broken

* Physical healing with emphasis on signs and wonders as seen in the book of Acts

* A commitment to missions - church planting at home and world missions abroad

* Unity within the whole body of Christ; a relationship with other local churches

* Evangelistic outreach

* Equipping the saints in areas such as discipleship, ministry, serving, giving, finances, family, etc.

For a detailed outline of our beliefs, including Biblical references, please see the Association of Vineyard Churches' website.