New Life Vineyard Church — Local services in Midland

If you're looking for a place to belong in the body, whether a new or seasoned believer--or have questions about God in general, this is definitely the place for you. The people make this place what it is, and take the definition of community to a whole new level. There are small groups that meet during the school year for various stages of life, and other groups and outreaches that meet at other times, but the leadership works tirelessly to make sure you find your fit. In addition, the congregation in general excels at loving, and they love hard.

The first time I visited this place was a good number of years ago. Service had just ended so I had to wait for another time to experience that, but a family noticed me walking toward the building and introduced themselves and their children, and we had about a ten-minute conversation about our lives. As a single male, especially a black male in a majority-white city, this meant the world to me.

I've been a member of a few good churches in the area, and I can honestly say this congregation best lives up to the body of Christ moniker. After my first visit to a entire service, it was't very long before I had made some of the most heartfelt and meaningful connections with other believers that I've ever made in my entire life. If you're gone for any real length of time, you'll get either a text or eventual run-in out in public with someone asking how you've been and/or a genuine "We miss seeing you", something I've been told doesn't happen with some places, unfortunately. The size of the congregation is decent but not overwhelming, so it'll be perfect for all but the most socially awkward, or ones who come from churches of less than a hundred. But over time there will be people who work with you to break you out of the shell, to challenge you to be what God has called you to be.

Their slogan is "Everyone Gets To Play" and no truer words can be spoken about the ministry here. If you can walk and talk (or even if you can't) and have a heart to serve--REGARDLESS OF AGE--the leadership will, as I said before, work aggressively to find a spot for you. There is almost no separation between generations, and much is continually being done to keep the spirit of unity running strong. The summer season demonstrates this the best, as that is when the youth conference and neighborhood carnival (running in sequence), to name a few events, bring everyone together and much outreach takes place in various forms.

There are also worship nights a few times a year.

Perhaps the most important aspect of this church is the preaching, currently led by Pastor James. He's energetic, funny, outgoing, super nice, but firm when it comes to sound doctrine, therefore takes his role seriously. He understands that it's desperately needed in the church today, and because of this, doesn't shy away from issues of the day when the Lord prompts. But he delivers the message in a clever and meticulous fashion that nobody can emulate, so you will walk away with something to ponder each time.

I was sent here to serve for only a short season. But the relationships and special moments I've experienced at the Vineyard will be remembered...

I'm a long-time "Vineyard-ian" from many "Vineyard's" all over the country. I can truly say that the New Life Vineyard Church in Midland both fits in yet establishes it's own unique identity in the Vineyard USA, family of churches. I was welcomed before my foot hit the door and several more times on my way through the lobby to grab a cup of coffee and hang my coat before worship and service started. I stopped by the welcome desk and (I have to say, to me, this is specifically unique to Vineyard churches & 1 other church i visit in ATL) I felt soooo welcomed, accepted & loved - right then & there. First time interacting. Warmth. A spiritual hug I've needed for a long time. I received my newcomer information kit and entered the sanctuary. Not one to hide in the back, I found a seat in the 4th row. Worship was fantastic! As we enter into worship and the spirit comes to be with us, one can't help but feel blessed & chosen in this place (Earth). Finally, Don started the service. It was a Mission's wknd - which is truly great to see a church that's vibrant & alive in the Great Commission - going & making believers in Christ. The speaker's were terrific as well! I felt like Don was speaking directly to me or more likely that God was speaking through Don to me & I'm sure a number of other folks did, too!! I filled out my connect card, turned it in after service (and received an awesome $5 Starbucks giftcard, too). I spoke to Don for a few min about other Vineyard Pastor's we both know, which was a hoot! We need to grab coffee or breakfast to chitchat sometime! Lol! It's several days later now. I've already had a welcome email from Don a and a phone call from Larry to help me get connected with a home group and for prayer! I love a church that walks their talk. I didn't intend this to be a step-by-step of my visit. However, if you are lonely, hurting, looking for a place to be accepted - to belong, try New Life Vineyard. I'll be there from now on, myself. I'm in no way affiliated with the church, but I'd be glad to meet anyone who might feel a little awkward or nervous at going for the first...

We visited this church several years ago to attend a conference they were hosting...and LOVED it...but we lived an hour and a half away, so regular attendance simply wasn't an option. It just so happens that we moved a few years later and found ourselves within half an hour's drive...which isn't short, but considering the instant connection we felt with the people, the leadership, and God, while at New Life Vineyard...it just made sense to call this "home". We love NLV and our little...