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Join the Vinery

Is there a university within a mile or two of your church?  

 

Do you long for your church to become a dynamic hub of vibrant ministry serving people from your neighboring university? 

 

Is your church already doing great ministry with its university neighbors, but you’re looking for a process and partners to help take your ministry to the next level?

 

We invite you to join us in a narratival process of  listening deeply to your university neighbors and the broader community; reflecting on your congregation’s history, theology, and practices; then reimagining your congregation’s story of thriving in ministry with young adults, university neighbors, and your broader community. 

Our promise is to see your church through this process every step of the way.

Before applying to be a part of The Vinery’s first cohort, it is important to read and carefully consider the criteria and commitments detailed below. 

 

What to know before applying

Is the Vinery right for my church?

Indicators of congregational readiness:

Proximity, Priority, and Capacity

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Proximity

We aim to partner with congregations within close physical proximity to universities. We define close proximity as in walking distance--within two miles or an accessible public transit ride that is ten minutes or less.

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Priority

The initiative is intended for congregations that either already prioritize vibrant college and young adult ministry or they have committed to a strategic plan to implement such ministry within the next five years.

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Capacity

Strong candidates are congregations that demonstrate a willingness to commit to the following:    

   

  • Theological premise for self-reflection and examination of their mission, values, theological resources and trustworthy ministry practices.

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  • Cultural competence around issues of race, justice, equity, and narratives of dominant culture in their congregations and in ministry with their university neighbors,

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  • Financial investment in covering expenses for participation in a network of congregations committed to dynamic university ministry.

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  • A lead team ready to guide their congregation through the multi-step process,  represent their congregation in the Vinery community, and communicate the vision and their work to their congregation. 

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  • Time for rhythms of deep listening, reflecting, and reimagining during retreats and listening sessions during a two-year cohort.

2022 The Vinery Gatherings 

As you consider applying, please note the following dates

Opening Retreat: 

January 30 - February 2, 2022

 

Mid-Year Peer Learning Cohort: 

June 18-19, 2022

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Learning Community Sessions:

Tuesdays from 10:00am- 12:00pm EST on

  • January 18     

  • March 15

  • April 19 

  • May 17

  • June 21

  • August 16

  • September 20

  • October 18

  • November 15

via video conference

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"Young adults desire multi-generational connection, learning and mentorship. Congregations can be a part of meeting these desires while providing care and enrichment for young adults."

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