Campus Independence

The Path to Independence

For nearly two decades, Vineyard Columbus has pursued its mission through multiple campuses across Central Ohio. As we looked toward the future, we entered a season of prayer, listening, discernment, and consultation to evaluate how we could best support the long-term health and effectiveness of each campus while continuing to advance the Kingdom in Central Ohio and beyond.

The discernment process included input from outside advisors, Vineyard USA leaders, Campus Advisory Teams, pastors, church leaders, prayer teams, and many members of our church family. Through that process, a clear vision emerged: each campus may be able to flourish more effectively as an independent Vineyard Church, focused more directly on the unique needs and opportunities within its local community.

We call this vision Released to Flourish. This webpage exists to provide updates, milestones, timelines, and resources as each campus progresses through its journey toward independence.

Being released to flourish means more than becoming independent. It means taking thoughtful steps to help each congregation begin its next chapter with a strong foundation, capable leadership, and the resources and support needed to thrive as a local church.

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Preparing to Flourish

We're helping each congregation establish a sustainable foundation, prepare its people, and complete the practical steps needed for independence. Because every campus is different, each congregation will move forward according to its own circumstances and readiness.

01

A Healthy Foundation

Establishing sustainability

We begin by looking at whether each congregation has a sustainable foundation for independence. This includes having a Lead Pastor in place, consistent congregational participation, and the financial resources needed to support the church's ministry and ongoing expenses.

This phase helps us understand whether the congregation has the foundation needed to operate independently.

02

Preparing to Lead & Serve

Building a strong team

Next, we focus on the people needed to lead and serve an independent church. This includes assessing staffing needs, developing a dependable volunteer base, and establishing a governing board to provide leadership and accountability.

These preparations help ensure that each congregation has the people and leadership structures needed to carry its ministry forward.

03

Completing the Transition

Putting the details in place

The final phase focuses on the practical steps required to operate independently, including legal requirements, financial and administrative systems, technology, facility arrangements, and communications.

Completing these details helps prepare each congregation to take on the responsibilities of independence with clarity and confidence.

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Released to Flourish

With these preparations complete and final approvals in place, each congregation can begin its next chapter as an independent Vineyard church—rooted in its community, growing together in faith, and continuing the work of Jesus in the places God has called it to serve.

Campus Updates

We will update this page regularly as new information becomes available.

January 26, 2026

Staff Care update

We are prioritizing staff care by strengthening support systems, rebuilding trust, and embedding healthy rhythms of work, rest, and formation into our culture. A Staff Care Team has been formed to provide additional support to SLT and met on Jan 26 to outline next steps.

January 26, 2026

Elemental Group Update

SLT and VUSA met with the Elemental Group and are reviewing their proposal for an assessment process, including a review of events from the past year related to the transition.

January 25, 2026

Campus Advisory Team Meeting (Pickerington)

SLT, Finance, and campus leaders met with the Pickerington Campus Advisory Team to listen and engage in dialogue related to the transition.