Who we are, where we come from, and where we're headed as a church family.
The Vine cares about one thing more than anything else, Jesus Christ. We are a family of individuals that have found freedom in the Gospel, and simply want as many people as possible to experience that exact same freedom.
As Christians in southwest Missouri prayerfully considered how to share the Gospel with their community, a simple question began to take shape: Where might God be opening a door next?
In 2017, a small core group of believers came together with a shared vision to plant a new church in Joplin, Missouri—one rooted in God’s Word and committed to serving the people of the region with faith, love, and hope.
With the support of the WELS Board of Home Missions, along with months of research, conversation, and prayer, that vision moved forward. In April 2018, the Board officially approved a new home mission in Joplin, marking a significant step in bringing this church plant to life.
As the group awaited the calling of a pastor, they remained active and united, gathering regularly for Bible study in Joplin. These studies were led by Pastor Aaron Schumann of Faith Lutheran Church in Pittsburg, Kansas. During this season, the group continued to grow in fellowship, deepen their faith, and prayerfully plan for the future of the mission church.
What began as a small gathering, guided by God’s Word and sustained through prayer, became the foundation for a church committed to proclaiming Christ and serving the Joplin community.
The Vine is are a proud member of an international church body called the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). The WELS has been around since 1850 and, while headquartered in Wisconsin, serves hundreds of thousands of Christians in North America and around the world. To be Lutheran means that we accept the scriptural truths that ignited the reformation of the Christian church in the 16th century and led to a renewed focus on the gospel.
The Vine is committed to building a faith community that has its foundation built on Jesus Christ. We are committed to the bold vision of building that which church should be - a place for you to find rest, wisdom, and life in Christ Jesus!
Most importantly, you're always welcome at The Vine. We're saving a seat for you. Wherever you're at in your faith journey, you'll always be welcome to join The Vine Church family!
No matter your religious beliefs or your spiritual background, we would love to study the Bible with you! The Vine offers a free class called “Bible Basics” in which we take an honest look at the foundational teachings of Christianity in a relaxed, non-judgmental setting. You’ll hear and learn what the Bible says about God’s love for you and God’s purpose for your life. Until then, we invite you to explore our beliefs and join us in our mission of connecting people to Christ and Community!
