Welcome to The Vine Church, we are a community of all ages who are growing as followers of Jesus Christ here in the Weald of Kent. If you have recently moved to the area or are exploring the Christian faith for the first time, we warmly invite you to come along on Sunday morning at 10am in Cranbrook Primary School. For directions click here.
The Vine was started in 1997 as a fresh expression of church family in the area. From the beginning, with a small group of people meeting in a front room in Cranbrook, The Vine has had a family feel, warmly welcoming newcomers. In these early days praise and worship and the presence of God were key priorities. Since this time The Vine has become a recognised part of the community and faithfully shared the good news of Jesus and encouraged people in their relationship with God, whilst providing a loving family environment.
Today, The Vine is led by Chris & Candy Goodchild and governed by the church oversight, which includes our Board of Trustees. A number of others share responsibility for leading areas of Church activity and together work to provide direction and accountability.
Our vision and values
We want to see people’s lives transformed and serve our communities with the power, truth and love of Jesus Christ. His power forgives sin, gives us spiritual life, mends broken bodies and heals hurting hearts. The truth found in His word provides the best worldview and creates new and hope-filled thought-patterns. Jesus’ love embraces everyone and gives dignity to all people. At The Vine we want to carry that power, share His word and show His love in an authentic way, to each other and to our communities.
What we believe
The Vine Church is a mainstream Christian Church, who believe the whole Bible is relevant to life today. We believe that God still does miracles today and wants to lead and bless people through the gifts and presence of the Holy Spirit.
We are excited about the gospel – that through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, every person can receive forgiveness for their sins, have their shame taken away, know God as their good and loving Father, and discover their true purpose in life and the adventure of walking each day with the Holy Spirit.
We also believe that our lives find true meaning in community as we love, serve and care for each other. Here at The Vine we are seeking to build a fun, loving, safe and supportive church family what welcomes others to be a part of this great community of faith.
Networking
The Vine is part of the Assemblies of God GB denomination and we also relate with churches in our town and region from other denominations. We receive counsel and support from a number of recognised Christian leaders both from within the UK and abroad. Our association with other churches is based on genuine friendship and we look for opportunities to work together wherever possible. The Vine is a member of the Evangelical Alliance.
Why "The Vine"?
If you're wondering the significance of The Vine's name you're not the first person to be a little puzzled. The name is taken from a passage in the Bible where Jesus describes himself as 'the vine' and his followers as branches on the vine.
The name 'The Vine Church' reminds us that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves, that we need each other and we need God in our lives - not just somewhere on the periphery, but right at the centre; Jesus is our life-source.
John 15:5
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."