Vineyard Central

I had a fantastic time with the folks of Vineyard Central over the weekend. It proved to be exactly what I hoped for: a time of renewal, re-envisioning and forging of new friendships. It truly was “Come and See.” I lived with them, ate with them, prayed the Hours with them and talked with them. There were no name badges or hotels. There were no longwinded speakers or three ring binders. It was food and conversation with the Spirit’s presence mixed in. The leaders generously opened their homes and lives up, getting to know us and letting us get to know them.

The church is situated in Norwood, a neighborhood within Cincinnati. Directly around St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral many of Vineyard Central’s people have homes and share homes. The Brown house was always filled with activity. It even has three dogs, one of which, named Chile, didn’t like me too much. I stayed in the Convent where retreats are hosted and where the Nixons and three others live. Directly across from St. Elizabeth’s is the Speckled Bird Café, which was unveiled while I was there. Community truly defines Vineyard Central. I told Heidi when I got home that it was kind of like Beans ‘N Rice (from the old DGV days) on steroids.

I’m still processing my time there, and I think I will be for some time. There were so many things to take away. Thankfully, I brought back a t-shirt from Andy’s (some of the best Lebanese food I’ve ever had) and a Save Elizabeth t-shirt, which I trust will serve as reminders of Vineyard Central.