While it's often the case that life's problems lead us to Christ, it's also the case that these same problems don't always neatly resolve themselves once we're "saved." There is a process involved with change. It takes time and work to move from a place of brokenness to a place of wholeness and freedom. And while no one can change without the power and grace of God, many people also need the support and guidance of others.

Here at Vineyard, there are several ways you or someone you love can receive the personal help necessary to change.

Small Group Involvement
We believe here at Vineyard that fellowship through involvement in a small group is basic to Christian discipleship. Every follower of Christ needs to be in relationship with other believers to mature and be spiritually healthy.

But small groups are also the primary context for receiving personal support, guidance and counsel. Countless believers in this church have been helped with their problems through the love and care of other Christians in their small group.

But small groups are also the primary context for receiving personal support, guidance and counsel. Countless believers in this church have been helped with their problems through the love and care of other Christians in their small group.

Peer Counseling
Some of our problems require more time and attention than a small group can provide. Here at Vineyard, we have team of trained counselors (not professionals) who can meet regularly for counseling and prayer with individuals. The amazing success of this program can be attributed to the fact that most peer counselors have worked through significant problems in their own lives and from personal experience, can offer wise counsel and support. To qualify for peer counseling, you must be active in a small group and be recommended by your group leader.

Life Support Groups
There is tremendous benefit from sharing personal problems with others who understand. Life Support Groups provide a way for those who are struggling with similar problems to meet together for mutual encouragement and accountability. Throughout the year, various issues such as sexual abuse, substance abuse, abortion recovery and eating disorders are addressed through seminars and groups are formed for ongoing help and support. Please check the bulletin for announcements about Seminars and Life Support Groups, or come to the information counter.

Pastoral Counseling
Sometimes our problems require the advice and counsel of a pastor. All the pastors on staff at Vineyard are qualified to counsel and many do take counseling appointments from time to time. Our policy, however, is for pastors to refrain from long-term counseling and to limit to appointments to one or two. To see a pastor for counseling you must be a member at the Columbus Vineyard.

Professional Counseling
In 1993 Vineyard started its own professional counseling center, staffed with licensed psychologists, therapists and social workers. These highly trained professionals provide Christian counseling from a solid biblical foundation. Services are available to anyone for a fee, which can be adjusted according to an individual's income level. Insurance is also accepted.

Our desire at Vineyard is to see people come to Christ, grow as His disciples and be made whole through the love and grace of God. If you feel “stuck” in a problem in your life, we would encourage you to pursue help here at the church so that you can experience all that God intends for you.

For more information about counseling or to make an appointment, contact Linda Bradshaw, 614-259-5409.

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