Why Kinship Groups?

Kinship groups are important at the Vineyard for the simple reason that fellowship is important. Many Christians today, however, feel fellowship or kinship group participation is optional - something they do only when they have free time after work, family errands, friends and leisure.

We in the vineyard believe that fellowship is basic...

We in the Vineyard believe that fellowship is basic to what it means to be a Christian. The Bible teaches that once we accept Christ, we are not only reconciled to God but we are also relationally united with other believers in what’s called the body of Christ.

Just as each of us has one body with many members...so in Christ we who...are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. (Romans 12:4, 5)

There are countless verses telling us how to relate to each other and the phrase “one another” alone appears over 60 times.

“...love one another…(1 John 4:7)

Honor one another..." (Romans 12:10)

"...agree with one another..." (1 Corinthians 1:10)

"Be patient, bearing with one another. .." (Ephesians 4:2)

It seems obvious that the Christian life is meant to be lived in the context of fellowship. Unfortunately, it's hard to experience real fellowship at our weekend worship services. Meeting ''face-to-back-of-head" once a week for an hour and a half with 50 people is not what the writers of the New Testament had in mind when they wrote about fellowship.

While our worship services are a very important part of our church life, it's at our small group meetings during the week that we can experience fellowship. Fellowship with other Christians is vital to your spiritual health and growth. If you are not yet involved with a small group, we urge you to make time for this in your life. Here is some helpful information to get you started and answer some of your questions.

What goes on at a kinship group meeting and how long is it?

The average kinship group meeting lasts about two hours. For part of that time, the group is focused on their relationship with God. There will be worship, group discussion over a passage from the bible and then members will pray for each other. The rest of the time is spent in ''fellowship'' - coffee, cake, conversation and just getting to know each other.

Can I bring my kids with me?

Most groups do provide supervision for children. It is best to check in advance with the group leader or host. Their phone numbers can be obtained from the greeter at the greeter's stand.

What will happen if I just "show up" at a kinship group meeting?

You will be warmly welcomed and invited to participate to a degree you feel comfortable. All of our groups are accustomed to visitors and new people. We do advise, however, that you phone the leader in advance to make sure the group is still meeting at the same time and place. Leaders' phone number can be obtained from the greeter at the greeter's stand.

Do I have to make a long term commitment to a particular group?

No. You are free to visit as many groups as you like, and attend a group for as short or as long as long period of time that you want. We do recommend, however, you select a group and stick with it for awhile. They will give you a chance to really get a feel for the group as well as to form meaningful relationships with others.

Church & Christianity are both new to me. Should I wait until I become more familiar with the Bible before going?

Absolutely not! Kinship group involvement is the best way to grow in your knowledge and understanding of spiritual things.