Much of the teachings of Jesus are anchored to real life and how our faith draws us deeper into being human rather than some kind of escape hatch from reality resulting in a spirituality that is disengaged from daily life.
The ups and downs. The pain and the healing. In doubt and in belief.
As a result, a lot of what Jesus talks about resonates with an organic understanding of who we are as individuals and who we are together. Our name reflects this. Kelowna Vineyard. Taken from Jesus’ reflection on how a vineyard illustrates our faith, both in relation to our worship and our community, we love what the name “Vineyard” communicates. We are part of a global movement of churches known as “The Vineyard.”
We see christian worship as something that involves our entire being and relationships. It truly is an organic rather than only an organizational experience.
Our values grow out of who we are rather than by simply being implemented through what we do.
"The whole person in all aspects of her life is engaged in fostering human flourishing and serving the common good.”
― A Public Faith, How Followers of Christ Should Serve the Common Good
Across different religious texts and literature, the sycamore symbolizes strength, protection, reliability, and clarity of sight. As a species, it is highly valued for its durable, lightweight wood and its fruit. There are several references to the sycamore tree in scripture. King David had a special overseer to care for these trees, just as he did for the olives.
It is interesting to note that sycamore fig trees are frequently planted and flourishing in the “waysides”. Their leaves are heart-shaped, downy, and fragrant. The fruit grows in clusters like grapes, directly from the trunk in little sprigs. To make the fruit edible, it must be punctured with a sharp instrument a few days before harvesting. The tree is always verdant and bears fruit several times in a year, without being confined to fixed seasons. Therefore, it’s a permanent food-bearer and invaluable source for the poor.
Kelowna Vineyard is here to bring strength, reliability, protection (justice), and clarity of sight for those it serves. It is a source of these qualities because it has embraced being broken to bear fruit and seeks out the waysides and low-lying areas to grow and flourish. Its leaves bear the image of His heart, and its trunk bears fruit in and out of season to feed the poor. Therefore, God is calling us to be a shade and refuge for people from all walks of life and to advocate for the poor and marginalized.