When we have a relationship with Jesus and friendships with people who believe in the same values, our lives have more value and purpose.
Today, we are all busy working long hours, running kids to sport and school activities and trying to cram in all our favourite hobbies on the weekends. There’s barely a moment to stop and think – let alone spend quality time with our friends, family and neighbours. And spending time discovering who God is comes in a distant last . . . if it even happens at all. At some point in life, usually in time of crises, the “God question” comes up.
The Vine wants to help the people of Rototuna and Hamilton establish a community that is fun, strong, welcoming, safe and friendly. A place where values are upheld and the God questions are worked through. We want to provide an opportunity and an environment for you to learn about God.
When we have a relationship with Jesus and friendships with people who believe in the same values, our lives have more value and purpose.
If you’d like to take the first step on the journey toward discovering more about God then please contact The Vine Pastor, Ross Woodhouse.
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Pastor Ross and Karyn Woodhouse
Prior to taking on a leadership role with the VINE Ross worked in the building industry for 17 years, most of this time as a Trade Sales Rep for Placemakers Hamilton. After leaving Placemakers in 1998 his first role was in leading Centrals Music Ministry for a couple of years. This led Ross to complete a Ministry Internship Diploma (Mi DIP) through the Bible College of New Zealand. Following this training and internship Ross accepted a half-time role with Central serving on staff as a Pastor. In November 2006 following a year of building a team, scoping property opportunities and due diligence for the church Ross took up the role as Pastor of The Vine, a church plant in the North of Hamilton.
Ross is passionate to see people connected to Jesus and having a growing relationship in him. Every person wants to experience hope. We do not hope for what we already have. So as we connect with Jesus (the only REAL hope) we are more able and equipped to handle the complexities of life. Ross believes the VINE is an avenue through which people can find this hope and connection.
Ross’s wife, Karyn has a nursing background and is passionate about her current role as an independent midwife in the Hamilton area. Ross and Karyn have three awesome children (Natasha, Braden and Daniel) and two amazing Grandchildren (Maia and Jayden).
The Vine, originally a branch of Hamilton Central Baptist Church, is now an established church working in the Rototuna suburb of Hamilton.
Throughout the year the Vine also runs a range of activities and events at our community Resource Centre. And, facilitates other programmes like play groups, women's groups, men's gatherings, home groups, fun community events and community church services.
Other areas of the Vine include: Graft Groups (Home Groups), Sunday church services and community events – Children’s Day, Carboot sale, etc.
Vines themselves come in different varieties, shapes and colours. This is reflective of who we are as people and communities. So this is about being inclusive of all people.
We also believe the true VINE is Jesus, who said of himself “I am the Vine, you are the branches…”. So as the Vine we have our identity in him and connection to him.
The Vine’s work is to help all people discover how great life can be when you have a strong relationship with Jesus and meaningful, fun friendships with your neighbours and the wider community.
