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Prayer Wall Welcome to the Vertical Church Prayer Wall This is a place to share prayer requests with the church body. Click the button below to have prayer requests posted to the wall for the church to pray for and encourage you. Share Your Prayer Request Sign Up for Weekly Prayer Email Kay H. May 13, 2024 Please pray for my brother Jim. He is critically ill. No sleep in several days. Has pneumonia and blood clots in his arm. Delirium from lack of sleep and desperately needs rest to heal. Hospitalized. Cardiologist, Neurosurgeon and Hospitalist involved. Thank you Art D. May 12, 2024 Asking for Special Prayer For Rev Leigh who has been faithful to The Lord and Her current Job...She has a disrespectful difficult boss who does not appreciate her years of dedication. She needs God to move on her behalf in Jesus Name! Prayer for Sister Brittanya for healing. Prayer for Sister Danicka's mom healing. Prayer for Sister Edna Continued healing. Prayer for Ecclesia Church. Prayer for Luz Maria Chavez - Favor at work Her sister Laura Patricia Chavez for continued healing from Cancer. Prayer for sister Regina healing and deliverance in Jesus Name! Shari K. May 4, 2024 Please continue to pray for Denwood who is back on the ventilator with a resistant infection. Thank you Shari K. April 29, 2024 Please pray that Denwood's heart would resume normal function and that the confusion and shaking will resolve quickly. Thank you! Rick R. April 28, 2024 Please continue to pray for Susie and her family as they continue to take care of their mother. Sherry B. April 27, 2024 Shari Knight reported that Denwood's breathing tube has been removed. Praise the Lord! Please continue praying that his blood pressure will stabilize, relief from allergic reaction to meds, and that his strength improves. He is making progress. Thank you Lord. Julie April 26, 2024 My mom, sister and I have really been struggling going through many hardships and needing God's powerful healing & strength please to get through. Thank you so much for praying Sherry B. April 20, 2024 Please continue to keep Denwood and Shari in you prayers. He is still on a ventilator but seems to be holding his own with improved oxygen and kidney function values. Please continue to pray for his strength, recovery and improving life functions. Pray comfort, and wisdom for Shari. Susie R April 19, 2024 Please pray for my mom, DD. She is 101 and has had a horrible week of hives and dementia. She is much better today. Pray for all of us who care for her. Kathryn S. April 13, 2024 Per Barb: 4/13/2024 Morning report. Last night from about 8 - 12 was a nightmare. Too hard to go into details but he refused a new IV and then refused medication because he didn't trust who made it or what was in it. He was very confused. Kept wanting to go home which he said was only 3 hours away because we were in Cincinnati, but then he wasn't in the hospital, he was home. He was so confused. After about 4 hours of my trying to convince him, he finally took the medicine. No idea why? And we went to bed. We both passed out. Today he has been cooperative so far. Nurse tried three or four times to put one in but no success. She was going to see if they have time to do an ultrasound IV, whatever that is. Dr. Came in while I was writing this. They got the results of the culture and it responds to the general antibiotics they are using. She is hoping to get one more day of intravenous medication and he can probably go home tomorrow. If they ever get an IV in and he pulls it out, they will just switch him to oral which isn't quite as good. I think that the condensed version of what is going on today. The lady that walked him yesterday came in but it was when he was getting poked for an IV and said she would be back tomorrow. More later. Kathryn S. April 12, 2024 Barb (SIL) sent this at 10:46 am on my Brother, Jerry! K: He slept all day yesterday but last night he kept trying to get out of bed but is hooked up to lots of machines so can't get out of bed. And then he was trying to pull off the wrappings around the IVs in his arm but I managed to stop him. It's usually as he feels better he starts doing that.. Dr. came in this morning and said h\there is bacteria growing on urine culture and infection in his prostate. Still running a light fever and is just going to eat breakfast. Looks like he will be here a couple more days at least. Cathy just came to relieve me so I can go home and take a shower and a nap. I will try to be better at keeping you posted but if I don't, just remind me. (w/ heart emoji) Kathryn S. April 11, 2024 Update on my brother, Jerry Schroy April 11, 2024 - Jerry had blood in his urine so took him to the doctor this morning. He said possibly passed a kidney stone or UTI. Sent him for an X-ray and urine sample. About 8:30 pm he started with a fever and it shot up to 102.5. He was extremely restless and flailing his arms and rolling around. Anyway, I called 911 and we are now at the ER. About 3:12 am: They are starting him on 2 antibiotics. I told them he is just getting better from c-diff. About 7:40 am: They just admitted him. Possible UTI and possible pneumonia. I believe the UTI and question the pneumonia. I hope this is a short stay. He does not do well in hospitals. About 7:53 am Pray that all the antibiotics don't bring back the c-diff. Message from my SIL: Barb Schroy

Children’s Ministry We are excited to show the love of Jesus Christ to your children and teach them from God’s Word each weekend. Our ministry leaders and volunteers will welcome you and provide childcare from birth until 6th grade during our worship service. To learn more about our children’s ministry, please contact Megan Winkler . What to Expect In our Nursery, children from birth to age 2-1/2, are provided child care where they will enjoy music, short Bible stories, and guided play. Our Beginners class for children for ages 2-1/2 through 4, is where we introduce an age appropriate curriculum called “Play-n-Worship” where toddlers discover Bible truths through interactive, intentional play. The Preschool class for children ages 4–6 is where the children first experience the Dig-In: Foundations of Faith curriculum. Each week a new Bible truth is discovered through a lesson, puppet skit, crafts, music, and games. For First-Time Visitors The first time you bring your child or children to Vertical Church, you can register them in our computer-based, secured Children’s Ministry check-in. Upon arrival, just look for the Children’s Ministry check-in kiosk or ask a greeter to direct you. The Dig In: Foundations of Faith curriculum continues in the grade school classes which are separated into three age-based classrooms: Grades K–1, Grades 2–4, and Grades 5–6. A weekly Bible truth is presented through an interactive lesson, praise music video, crafts, object lesson, teaching video, and games.

Doctrinal Statements Jesus Christ We believe in the total deity of the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe He is the manifestation of God in the flesh. We believe He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. We believe Him to be true God and true man (John 1:1, 1:14, 1:18; John 14:8-9; 1 Timothy 3:16). Holy Spirit We believe that the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ (John 16:14). The Holy Spirit regenerates the sinner upon belief in Christ, baptizing the believer into one body, of which Christ is the head. The Holy Spirit indwells, guides, instructs, fills, comforts, and empowers the believer for godly living (Mark 13:11; John 14:26; John 16:13; Romans 5:5; 1 Corinthians 3:16). ​ The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, of God’s righteousness, and of coming judgment (John 16:8-11). While we believe that the Scriptures do not teach that certain gifts have ceased, they indicate that use of the gifts vary according to the need that each gift meets. Gifts must be used in a way that is edifying and loving toward other believers (John 16:8; 13:15; Titus 3:5; Ephesians 1:22; 4:11-12; Romans 8:9-17; 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 12:4-5, 12:11-13, 12:19; Galatians 5:25; Hebrews 4:1-4; 2 Corinthians 12:12). Salvation We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, as a representative and substitutionary sacrifice. We believe that each person who by faith receives Him as personal Savior is justified on the basis of Jesus Christ’s shed blood on the cross. Each person who receives Christ as personal Savior is born again of the Holy Spirit and thereby becomes eternally secure as a child of God. We believe the Holy Spirit baptizes each believing person into the body of Christ at the moment of salvation and that there is no second baptism of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:37-39 ; 2 Corinthians 5:21 ; 1 Corinthians 12:13 ). Church Upon accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, a believer becomes part of His body, which is the church. There is one church universal, composed of all those throughout the world who acknowledge Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The Scriptures command believers to gather in order to devote themselves to worship, prayer, teaching of the Word, observance of the ordinances (baptism and communion), fellowship, service to the body through the development and use of talents and gifts, and outreach to the world in fulfillment of the command of Christ to disciple all believers (Ephesians 5:23 ; Romans 12:1 ; Acts 2:42-46 ; 1 Corinthians 14:26 ; Matthew 28:18-20 ). ​ Wherever God’s people meet regularly in obedience to this command, there is the local expression of the church under the oversight of elders and other supportive leadership. The church’s members are to work together in love and unity, intent on the ultimate purpose of glorifying Christ (Ephesians 4:16 ). God We believe in the only true God (John 17:3), the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19-20). He created all things (Revelation 4:11) and upholds all things by the Word of His power (Hebrews 1:3). In Him we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28). He is a God of truth and without iniquity. He is just and right (Deuteronomy 32:4), and He shall judge the world (Psalm 9:8). We believe that the Godhead eternally exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are one God, having precisely the same nature, attributes, and perfections, and are worthy of precisely the same homage, confidence, and obedience (Mark 12:29; John 1:1-4; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 4:3-4). Scriptures We believe the Scriptures of the Old Testament and New Testament are verbally inspired by God and inerrant in their original writings. We believe the 66 books of the Old Testament and the New Testament are God’s complete and sufficient revelation and therefore carry God’s authority for the total well-being of mankind (Psalm 119:97-104 ; Psalm 119:160 ; Matthew 5:18 ; John 5:46-47 ; John 10:35 ; 2 Timothy 3:15-16 ). Man We believe man was created in innocence under the law of his Maker, but by voluntarily transgressing, fell from his sinless and happy state. Consequently, all mankind is sinful. All people are sinners not only by inheritance, but also by their own choice and therefore are under just condemnation without defense or excuse. We believe that without exception every man and every woman is totally depraved and needs a Savior (Genesis 3:1-6 ; Romans 3:10-19 ; Romans 1:18 , Romans 1:32 ). Resurrection We believe in the resurrection of the crucified body of our Lord Jesus Christ, His ascension into heaven and His present life for us as High Priest and Advocate (Acts 1:3 ; Acts 1:9 ; Hebrews 7:25-26 ). Heaven, Hell, and the Return of Christ We believe in the blessed hope: the personal, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ. His return has a vital bearing on the personal life and service of the believer (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ). We believe in the bodily resurrection of both the saved and the lost. The saved are raised to eternal, conscious bliss in heaven (Matthew 25:34 ; John 14:2 ; 2 Corinthians 5:1 ; Revelation 2:7 ). The lost are raised to eternal torment in hell in conscious separation from God (Matthew 8:12 ; Matthew 10:28 ; Matthew 13:49-50 ; Mark 9:47-48 ; Luke 12:5 ; Revelation 21:8 ). Missions Vertical Church is committed to planting new local churches as the center of our mission strategy. Click here to learn more about the first plant God has allowed us to be a part of in the St. Michael area of Barbados. What We Believe What We Believe About… Creation, Evolution, and God's Sovereignty We believe in the total deity of the Lord. ​ We believe God created the universe in six twenty-four hour days and that before He created the universe, nothing except God existed (Genesis 1 ; Exodus 31:17 ; Psalm 33:6-9 ; Acts 17:24 ; Hebrews 11:3 ; Colossians 1:16 ). ​ God chose to create the universe and all that is in it to reveal His glory, divine nature, eternal power, infinite wisdom, and supreme authority (Isaiah 43:7 ; Psalm 19:1-2 ; Jeremiah 10:12 ; Romans 1:20 ; Revelation 4:11 ). ​ We deny the theory of evolution, which states that nonliving substances gave rise to the first living material, which then reproduced and diversified to produce all living creatures. We believe that all people are descendants of Adam and Eve, whom God created personally and individually and as complete human beings (Genesis 1:26-27 ; Genesis 2:7 ; Genesis 2:21-22 ; 1 Corinthians 11:8-9 ). The fall of Adam and Eve infected all people with sin and death, but the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ gives the opportunity to receive God’s gift of eternal life (Romans 5:18-19 ; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22 ). ​ God rules over His creation and cares about and is involved in the lives of individual people (Job 12:10 ; Acts 17:25 ; Acts 25:28 ; Colossians 1:17 ; Hebrews 1:13 ; Ephesians 4:6 ). Baptism and Communion Baptism and communion are the two ordinances required in the church. We believe that Christian baptism by immersion in water is a public identification with Jesus Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Although baptism is not required for salvation, it is commanded of all believers and is for believers only (Matthew 28:19-20 ; Acts 2:38 , 41 ; Acts 18:8 ). Scripture shows that a person was baptized after personally receiving forgiveness of sin through accepting Jesus Christ. Water baptism is a symbol of our death to sin, burial, and resurrection to newness of life that happens when we become new creations in Christ (Colossians 2:12 ; 2 Corinthians 5:17 ; Romans 6:1-4 ). ​ Communion is the commemoration by believers of Christ’s death, and a reminder—through the bread and the juice—of the Savior’s broken body and shed blood. Communion is to be a time of confession of our sin and should be preceded by careful self-examination according to Acts 4:13 ; Romans 6:3-6 ; 1 Corinthians 11:20-29 . Church Government Vertical Church Columbus is committed to the Bible’s teaching that men who hold the offices of Elder and Deacon are to oversee various functions of the local church. ​ The Bible’s teaching on the subject of two church offices is found in 1 Timothy 3:1-16 and Titus 1:5-9 . Although there are three terms used for the offices of the church: bishop, elder, and deacon, analysis of these terms indicates that bishop and elder are used interchangeably. Elder Qualifications – Titus 1:6-9 Above reproach, able to teach, husband to one wife, not addicted to wine, temperate, not antagonistic, prudent, uncontentious, respectable, free from the love of money, hospitable, manage own household, not a new convert. Elder Duties The Scriptures show that the elders serve by leading and that their responsibility involves the spiritual oversight of the congregation. All elders are equal in authority but not necessarily equal in influence. ​ The elders’ primary responsibilities include: ​ Doctrine – Ensuring that the doctrine of the church is biblical; all doctrinal issues in the church will be settled by the Board of Elders. ​ Direction – Ensuring that the direction of the church is consistent with the Vertical Church Columbus statement of purpose and the Four Pillars. ​ Discipline – Administering in love and humility the process of church discipline as outlined in Matthew 18:15-20 ; Galatians 6:1-4 ; Titus 3:10 ; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 ; 1 Timothy 5:17-25 ; 1 Corinthians 5 ; 2 Corinthians 2:5-11 , and Romans 16:17 . Plurality of Elders The Scriptures teach that a plurality of elders governed individual New Testament churches (Acts 14:23 ; Acts 20:28 ; Titus 1:5 ; Philippians 1:1 ). The Scripture does not mention any congregations featuring a stand-alone pastor and leader. A plurality of godly elders, exercising their individual giftedness, aligns with the Scripture’s teaching that wisdom is found in a multitude of godly counselors (Proverbs 11:14 ; Proverbs 12:15 ; Proverbs 15:22 ; Proverbs 19:20 ; Proverbs 24:6 ). This truth does not eliminate the possibility and likelihood that one or more elders will stand out from the others as more public in their ministries or more influential in their workings on the Elder Board. Senior Pastor The Vertical Church Columbus Senior Pastor automatically serves as an elder and, because of his public presence and responsibility before the congregation, may be considered first among equals as a member of the Elder Board. The Senior Pastor should be gifted primarily as a preacher/teacher and as a leader. Deacons The Bible teaches that deacons lead by serving (Acts 6 ). The qualifications for elders and deacons are the same regarding an individual’s character, but they differ in aptitude. The elders are to be able to teach while the deacons are to be able and proved as servants. ​ Deacon Qualifications (1 Timothy 3:8-12 ) Individual of dignity Above reproach Not double tongued First tested as servants Not addicted to wine Spouses must be faithful Temperate Not fond of sordid gain Holding to the mystery of faith with a clear conscience Husband of one wife Manages household well Women in Ministry Vertical Church Columbus affirms the God-ordained and significant role that women should play in establishing and leading the local church. Every leadership opportunity is open to women except those that are excluded by Scripture. The Scriptures clearly state that men are to serve in the office of Elder and that women are not to serve in church positions in which they exercise authority over men or in which they teach doctrine to men (1 Timothy 2:12 ; 1 Timothy 3:1-2 ; Titus 1:6-9 ). We do not see this as an issue of equality, for men and women are equal under God. The Bible is clear that men and women do not have the same roles. Qualified women should serve in any leadership position that is not forbidden in the Scriptures. Church Membership We believe in the importance of serving the body of Christ by offering clear paths for people to start and develop healthy and growing relationships with others in the church body. We value an intentional plan to help every interested person enjoy godly relationships in the church. Church membership is a byproduct of people who are growing in Christ and who grasp the importance of serving the Lord by using their gifts to serve others in the local church. Sufficiency of Scripture We believe in the verbal, plenary inspiration of the Scriptures and that they contain all the words of God that we need in order to completely trust and obey Him. The Scriptures are inerrant in their original writings (Psalm 119:97-104 ; Psalm 119:160 ; Matthew 5:18 ; John 5:46-47 ; John 10:35 ; 2 Timothy 3:15-16 ), and are infallible in their instruction (Proverbs 6:32 ; 2 Peter 1:19 ), eternal in duration (Isaiah 40:8 ; 1 Peter 1:23-25 ); the final authority and the standard for faith and practice (Matthew 4:4 ; Psalm 119); and sufficient for counsel in every issue of life (Psalm 19:7-14 ; 2 Timothy 3:16 ). We believe that the very words of Scripture in the original Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic are inspired by God. Therefore, we believe that the Bible versions which translate God’s Word most literally into modern English should be preferred. Eternal Security of the Believer It is God’s divine decision to save a person and it is God’s kindness, forbearance, and patience that lead that person to repentance (Romans 2:4 ). All glory for the salvation and security of every believer belongs to God alone (Romans 3:21-31 ; Ephesians 1:7-9 ; Ephesians 2:8-9 , Jude 1:24-25 ). We believe that everyone who is born again by the Spirit through Jesus Christ is eternally assured of salvation from the moment of conversion. This assurance relies on God’s decisive grace rather than on the works of the Christian. Obedience, good works, and fruit-bearing do not earn or retain the believer’s salvation but indicate the reality of the person’s love of Christ and profession of faith (Luke 6:46 ; John 14:21 ; James 2:17-18 ). ​ Eternal security in salvation relies on the Lord’s guarantee of each believer’s adoption as His son or daughter (Galatians 4:4-7 ), His seal of the believer by the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 1:21-22 ; Ephesians 1:13-14 ), and the conviction that God gives the Holy Spirit to each believer as a down payment toward future bliss in heaven (2 Corinthians 1:21-22 ). A person who professes genuine faith in Christ immediately becomes His possession (Luke 23:42-43 ; Acts 2:40-41 ; Acts 16:30-34 ), and nothing can snatch that person out of His hands (John 10:27-29 ). Having been bought with the price of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion as complete payment for sin, Christians are not their own. They are Christ’s possession (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ). This assurance is absolutely certain, reserved in heaven, and protected by God’s unlimited power (1 Peter 1:4-5 ). Worship The chief purpose of mankind is to glorify God by loving Him with the entire heart, soul, mind, and might (Deuteronomy 6:5 ; Isaiah 43:7 ; Matthew 22:37 ). All believing men, women, and children are to glorify God and thus fulfill the purpose of their existence. Worship glorifies God through adoration (Psalm 95:6 ), praise (Psalm 99:5 ), prayer (Daniel 6:10-11 ), thanksgiving (Nehemiah 12:46 ), and a complete yielding to Him (Romans 12:1 ). Worship declares His worth, pays Him homage, and celebrates Him in a life of devotion. We seek to worship the Lord in spirit and in truth (Exodus 15:1-21 ; 2 Samuel 6:14-16 ; Psalm 5:7 ; John 4:23-24 ; Revelation 4:11 ; 5:12 ). Several tenets guide our worship. We seek to: Lift high the name of Jesus Christ (John 4:22-26 ; John 12:32 ; John 14:6 ). Lead God’s people to lift their hearts and voices to Him, giving Him praise and thanks in music and lyrics (Nehemiah 12:45-46 ; Psalm 66:1-4 ; Psalm 95:1-2 ). Prepare hearts to hear the Lord speak through the proclamation of Scripture (Psalm 95:6-9 ; Matthew 28:19-20 ; Acts 2:41-42 ). Emphasize fresh and contemporary expressions while retaining traditional elements that recognize the richness of our heritage in the faith (Deuteronomy 32:7 ; Psalm 33:3 ; Isaiah 46:8-9 ; Matthew 13:32 , Ephesians 5:19 ; Revelation 5:9 ). Pursue excellence in worship, knowing that God is worthy of our best (Exodus 12; Deuteronomy 17:1 ; Psalm 33:3 ; 1 Timothy 4:14-15 ; Hebrews 11:4 ). Church Planting The church exists to glorify God through the fulfillment of the Great Commission, and in the spirit of the Great Commandment (Matthew 28:19-20 , Matthew 22:37-38 ). ​ The Great Commission is fulfilled as disciples of Jesus Christ are made and grow in their relationship with Him and likeness to Him. God is glorified as we manifest His presence as we do His work (2 Timothy 2:2 ; 1 Corinthians 10:31 ). ​ In seeking to act upon the church’s purpose, we recognize the extraordinary value in multiplying the reach of His ministry by planting local churches and by associating with existing, like-minded local churches. God is glorified when Vertical Church Columbus and other like-minded churches associate with one another in order to foster relationships that edify, protect, encourage, support, and admonish. Process of Sanctification and Maturity Mature disciples walk with Christ, worship Christ, and work for Christ. A person committed to a relationship with Christ focuses on a personal walk with Him, worshipping Him, working for Him, and being a witness for Him. That person will experience significant growth in personal sanctification and, therefore, will experience a closer personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and will become “complete in Christ” (Colossians 1:28 ). We are committed to multiplying the godly characteristics of leaders’ lives into others (2 Timothy 2:2 ). This multiplication of ministry is key to the healthy growth of the church. We believe the disciples of Jesus Christ should minister to one another in the local church, rather than one or a small number of professional pastors bearing total responsibility to care for the entire congregation. God has given spiritual gifts to all of His people to provide mutual ministry in the context of the healthy and strong local church (Ephesians 4:11-12 ). Counseling Philosophy The Lord changes lives and accomplishes His purposes directly through reading and applying the Scriptures, meditating on the truths of the Scriptures, and prayer. The Lord also uses those who minister His Word as they encourage, exhort, admonish, edify, implore, reprove, rebuke, and console others toward godliness. God needs no new or unique insight into the human condition in order to change lives, regardless of whether that insight is gained through psychology or some other tool of human origin. Problems that are approached by integrating the Scriptures with psychological theories tend to deceive individuals into diminishing the God of the Scriptures and into believing that He has not provided and cannot provide sufficient truth, insight, and wisdom that will change their lives (Colossians 2:8-10 ). ​ When psychology and other social sciences step beyond observing human behavior and seek to explain the causes of human behavior, they enter spiritual territory. Only the God of the Scriptures can explain causes and offer solutions that lead to godliness and a fruitful, joyful life. God has given us everything we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3 ). He changes us as we discipline ourselves through obedience to the Word of God in the power of the Holy Spirit (1 Timothy 4:7 ; 2 Peter 1:5-11 ). ​ Each Christian’s passion should be to become more like Christ and fulfill the Great Commandment to love the Lord with the entire heart, soul, mind, and might (Romans 8:29 ; 1 John 3:2 , Deuteronomy 6:5 ; Mark 12:30 ; Matthew 22:37-38 ). The Christian who learns and applies the Word becomes mature and, in turn, can help others mature (2 Timothy 2:2 ). Spiritual Warfare Satan and his demonic servants viciously oppose the work God performs in and through His people (1 Peter 5:8 ; Genesis 3:1-7 ; Ephesians 6:12 ). God, who by His nature is infinitely more powerful than Satan, in due time will have complete and total victory over Satan (1 John 4:4 ; Revelation 20:1-10 ). Although it is appropriate to pray in Jesus’ name for protection against demonic activity, the Scriptures do not instruct the Christian to “bind Satan in Jesus’ name.” Rather, the Scriptures instruct the Christian to combat Satan by: Humbly drawing near to God, knowing that He will give grace, mercy, and strength (2 Corinthians 12:7-9 ; Hebrews 4:15-16 ; James 4:8 ; 1 Peter 5:6-10 ). Resisting Satan’s temptations (James 4:7 ; 1 Peter 5:8-9 ). Rightly applying the truth of the Scriptures (Matthew 4:1-11 ; John 8:44 ; Ephesians 4:24-27 ). Forgiving offenses (2 Corinthians 2:10-11 ). Putting on the armor of God’s truth, righteousness, readiness to share the Gospel, faith, salvation, and prayer (Ephesians 6:11-20 ). Demonstrating faithfulness to the Lord by enduring trials (Revelation 2:10 ; Revelation 2:13 ; Revelation 3:9-10 ). The Christian who learns and applies the Word becomes mature and, in turn, can help others mature (2 Timothy 2:2 ).

Giving Thank you for your generosity to God’s work at Vertical Church! Giving to Vertical Church Online Give Online Giving to Vertical Church by Check Checks can be accepted during our weekly services or mailed to: Vertical Church, 1290 Old Henderson Rd, Columbus, OH 43220 Refund and Privacy Policy Learn more about Vertical Church’s online giving policies, including refund policy and privacy practices. Our Policies

Walking with Christ is not a journey to take alone, but with others in community. Grace Groups "God led me to Vertical Church back in 2017 as I was going through one of the most difficult times in my life. Over time, several members of the Winkler Grace group invited me to attend their Grace Group, so I finally went. Everyone was so open and friendly. I could not help but be encouraged and drawn into this caring group of people who were so dedicated to loving others and growing deeper in their relationship with Jesus. Over the next 3 years, these same people supported me through my trials and helped to meet my physical, emotional, and spiritual needs in so many ways. I cannot imagine how I would have been able to endure if it had not been for the wonderful people God put in my life through my Grace group." John "Some of our most meaningful friendships and deepest sense of community at Vertical have come through our involvement in a Grace Group. We recently had our second child at 29 weeks and had a lengthy stay in the NICU with her. Our grace group surrounded and supported us through setting up a meal train, childcare for our toddler while we went to the NICU, painting our daughter’s nursery, taking our puppy to the dog park, and so many prayers and words of encouragement. It is even clearer to us why God designed believers to live in community. We were already doing life with this group and when circumstances got challenging for our family, they were some of the first to step in. God has used them over and over again in both of our lives to keep us grounded in Truth and walking faithfully with Him. It is a blessing to walk alongside them!" Megan “I love our small group. Not only do we get to dive into the word, but we have intentional prayer time, deep conversation, accountability, and sweet fellowship. We are able to serve each other in the ways each of us need the most because we’ve really grown to know each other. Community is powerful, and it’s a gift to follow Jesus TOGETHER.” Morgan Testimonials Participation in a Grace Group is the very best way to know others — and be known — at Vertical Church. It could be said that we are a church made up of Grace Groups. Our Grace Groups offer the opportunity for regular life-on-life engagement within the family of God. We strongly encourage everyone who attends Vertical Church to join a small group. We have Men’s Groups, Women’s Groups, and Mixed Groups that meet on different nights of the week throughout the city. If you’re interested in seeing a full list of our Grace Groups, check out our “Groups” on our Church Center App. Click Below to see a list of our current groups. Current Groups Bringing our Community Closer We strive to follow the example set for us by the early church: And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 2:42–47

Men’s Ministry Click Here for Church Events Living as Men of God It is our desire for the men of Vertical Church to glorify God and be conformed into the image of Christ. With this in mind, we seek to equip men to serve, love, and lead their own families and our local church. We offer men’s grace groups, sessions for deeper study, and special events (like our annual retreat) in order to build up the men of Vertical Church and create a culture where men can grow in their love for Jesus Christ while pursuing Him together in friendship with other men. For upcoming men’s ministry events, check out our church’s events registration page by clicking the link. Join us every other month for a Men's Breakfast and every fall for our Men's Retreat. “For those He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, in order that He might be the firstborn among many brothers.” Romans 8:29 “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13–14

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About Vertical Church Mission & Purpose The mission of Vertical Church is to glorify God through the fulfillment of the Great Commission in the spirit of the Great Commandment by making disciples of Jesus Christ. ​ Matthew 28:19–20 — “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” ​ John 13:34–35 — “A new command I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Our History Vertical Church began in the Spring of 2010 when Pastor Luke & Jensine Ahrens and a group of believers began praying about starting a new church in Columbus. Vertical Church launched their first service on October 10, 2010. Over the next ten years, Vertical Church met in various schools and continued to develop. In the fall of 2021, God blessed the Vertical Church family with a permanent church home near OH-315 and Henderson Road. “Our vision is to be a church that is faithfully committed to making more disciples and stronger disciples of Jesus Christ with an effective witness and mutual ministry.” — Pastor Luke Ahrens Grace Groups Worship Service Children’s Ministry Student Ministry Our Principles The focus of ministry at Vertical Church is to glorify God by fulfilling the mission that Jesus gave His followers to make disciples, baptize them, and teach them to follow His ways (Matthew 28:19–20). Vertical Church makes disciples of Jesus by encouraging them to worship Christ, walk with Christ, work for Christ, and witness for Christ. WHO WE ARE Witness for Christ Sharing the Good News about Jesus Christ is a vital aspect in the life of a growing disciple. At Vertical Church we encourage believers to share the Gospel with those around us in loving and intentional ways. Find Outreach Opportunities Work for Christ One of the great joys of being a disciple of Christ is by serving Christ and one another. We encourage all those in the Vertical Church family to use their time, energy, and talents to build the Kingdom of God and care for one another. Work on a Service Team Walk with Christ Growing in your walk with Christ is best achieved in rich community. The Vertical Church family encourages everyone to join a Grace Group where you experience fellowship, applicational study in God’s Word, and mutual ministry. Vertical Grace Groups are a warm, relational setting where you can get to know other believers and grow as a disciple. Join a Grace Group Worship Christ God’s Word admonishes us to worship together regularly. We worship together as a community through music, prayer, and the preaching of God’s Word every weekend. Visit a Worship Service Relentless Prayer Followers of Jesus have special access to our Heavenly Father — we are invited to come boldly before God to ask for grace and mercy at any time (Hebrews 4:15–16). Jesus encouraged us, His disciples, to boldly and relentlessly petition our Heavenly Father for our needs (John 15:7–8, Luke 18:1–8). Life in the Spirit The Holy Spirit is our redemptive Advocate (Romans 8), giving us spiritual life, indwelling us, and sealing our salvation and adoption into the family of God. The Spirit leads and empowers us to grow as faithful disciples of Jesus as we worship, walk, work, and witness for Christ (Philippians 3:3; Galatians 5:16, 25; 1 Corinthians 12:7, 11; Acts 1:8). The Gospel of Jesus The Gospel is the Good News of reconciliation with God through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Acts 10:34–43)! We believe this reconciliation comes not by our good works, but by God’s grace (underserved favor) through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:1–10) — our only hope for salvation. We celebrate the Gospel and seek to share this Good News with other people around us (Romans 6:23; Acts 1:8). The Word of God We believe the Bible is the critical foundation that we must build our lives upon. The inspiration, sufficiency, authority, and inerrancy of Scripture are critical to experiencing the life transformation God intends (Hebrews 4:12). We love God’s Word and seek to study (Psalm 119), meditate (Psalm 1), and apply (Luke 6:46–49) the Bible to every area of our lives. Our Pillars More About Our Theology WHAT WE BELIEVE Our Leadership Luke Ahrens Senior Pastor & Lead Elder Matt Rickly Worship & Administrative Pastor Claire Bauer Administrative Assistant Megan Winkler Children's Ministry Director Staff Luke Ahrens Senior Pastor & Lead Elder Tom Heyl Elder Elders Deacons John Buk Deacon — Ushers Mark Knore Deacon — Benevolence Rick Howard Deacon — Facilities Ron Townsend Deacon — Finance Travis Vulich Deacon — Finance Amber Bernal Coffee Cart Jensine Ahrens Women's Ministry Director Kristen Martin Outreach Revonne Hammond Greeting Team Lead Rick Ross Security Team Ministry Leaders We seek to glorify God by fulfilling the mission the Lord Jesus gave His followers to make disciples, baptize them, and teach them to follow His ways.

Women’s Ministry “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30 Ministry by Women for Women Our mission is to ignite the passion of women in following and glorifying Jesus Christ and to equip women for the work of ministry, moving them toward a deeper walk with Christ and deeper connection with one another (Matthew 28:18–19, Ephesians 4:11–12, Titus 2). We invite you to join us in being part of a diverse ministry that equips women to fulfill their God-ordained purpose for their lives and to support the ministries and mission of the church. ​ To find upcoming Women’s Ministry events, check out our church’s events registration page by clicking the link. Click Here for Church Events Sign up for our newsletter! The Women's Ministry Newsletter goes out about once a month and encourages women in their walk and updates on ministry events coming up.

Witness God’s Word commissions us to make disciples of Jesus Christ by sharing the good news about Him with others. THE GREAT COMMISSION Every Christian is on mission proclaiming the name of Jesus in Columbus and beyond. “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’” Romans 10:14–15 ​ God has called all believers to participate in His Great Commission: to glorify Him by making disciples of Jesus Christ. Just as the early church did throughout their communities, we seek to spread the name of Jesus through the city of Columbus. Take a look at our current ministry partners and outreach opportunities below and read further to find which opportunities might be a good fit for you! Our Local Outreach Partners Alicia’s Closet Alicia’s Closet is a nonprofit organization serving the foster care community in Central Ohio (Columbus/Franklin County and surrounding areas) and Northwest Ohio (Fremont/Sandusky County and surrounding areas). They provide infant to young adult sized clothing, shoes, coats, diapers, wipes, baby accessories, and other essentials, at no cost to families. By supplying much needed items to those who have been affected by foster care, Alicia’s Closet helps create a sense of comfort, normalcy and dignity during a very difficult, uncertain time. In the process, they also hope to create genuine connections and provide support to families/caregivers. Learn more at aliciasclosetcolumbus.org . Sign Up International Friendships, Inc. (IFI) IFI has been operating in the Columbus area for over 40 years. The organization began right here at Ohio state and has expanded throughout the country and to Canada. IFI strives to make international students and college faculty feel welcome in the United States and share the gospel with them. The main ministry of IFI is providing hospitality and small group Bible discussions for International students, professors, and their families. Volunteers from Vertical Church can serve as mentors, leading small group Bible discussions, or assisting with any of the events that IFI hosts throughout the school year. If you are a person who loves getting to know other’s stories or you’re interested in sharing the gospel in an international context, this could be a great outreach opportunity for you! Learn more at columbus.ifipartners.org . Sign Up LifeWise Academy LifeWise Academy is a Released Time Religious Instruction (RTRI) program which provides Bible-based character education to public school students. Under RTRI laws, students can be released from public school during the school day to attend religious classes, provided the program is off school property, privately funded and parent-permitted. The LifeWise curriculum is designed to take students through the entire Bible, beginning in Genesis and ending in Revelation, over the course of five years. Each lesson reviews a Bible passage as well as a “Living LifeWise” character trait. The lessons’ order and activities are flexible and can be modified as the teacher finds necessary. Download a sample of the curriculum here . Learn more at lifewise.org . Sign Up Cornerstone of Hope Cornerstone of Hope is a nonprofit Comprehensive Bereavement Support Center serving children, teens, and adults who have experienced the death of a loved one. It is dedicated to providing support, education, and hope for the grieving, guided by the Christian values of compassion and service. Cornerstone of Hope Columbus offers individual counseling, support groups, summer camps, and memorial events. Its clinical supervisors and staff have extensive experience working with grief and trauma. Its counseling services are conducted by licensed clinicians and Master’s level interns under the supervision of our professional staff. Financial Assistance is available for those who qualify. Learn More Cru Ohio State RealLife (Cru Ohio State) is a place where students bring students to grow in our understanding of who God is, who he says we are, and how that impacts our lives. You can expect stories of how God is at work in the lives of other students, worship led by the RealLife band, and a practical teaching from one of Cru’s staff members. RealLife gathers Thursdays at 8:00 PM for worship, stories, talks from the Bible, and opportunities to connect with college students who are pursuing Jesus. RealLife’s “home” is Hitchcock Hall 131. Learn More The Covering The Covering is a ministry of Central Ohio Living Free. It exists for the redeeming of women’s lives through the gospel of Jesus Christ in a Christian home: rebuilding family. Its vision is to equip and empower families in God-centered homes to live out the gospel to the glory of God. Founded on the conviction that women are created in God’s image and that no woman is beyond God’s reach, the Covering believes that Jesus — brought to trial, executed, buried, and brought to life again — offers hope, healing, and a new purpose for each life. He can make even the most broken people and situations whole again. Through an amazing awakening to new hope and life purpose, those who once were broken, can begin a new life as a daughter, wife, mother, and friend! Learn More

Our Policies Refund and Privacy Policy Privacy Policy Vertical Church Columbus (“The Church”) is committed to ensuring the privacy of all users’ (“Users”) information. Application of privacy policy This privacy policy applies to all personal information submitted by Users through Vertical Church Columbus’s website (the “Website”), and through the Pushpay mobile payment application for use on iOS and Android smart phones (the “Application”). Personal information The Church will collect general information about you, such as your name, address, contact details so the Church can contact you. We may also collect this and other types of personal information during the course of dealing with you, for example when you wish to obtain goods or services from the Church, when you register for conferences or events, and when you participate in Church activities or complete other forms. The Church will not collect any personal information about visitors to the website except when they knowingly provide it. ​ In order to make a payment to Vertical Church Columbus all Users will need to submit certain personal information about themselves (as prompted by the Website and/or Application), including their name, phone number, postal and email address. Users may be asked to submit further information from time to time. Use of information and data The Church will collect general information about you, such as your name, address, contact details so the Church can contact you. We may also collect this and other types of personal information during the course of dealing with you, for example when you wish to obtain goods or services from the Church, when you register for conferences or events, and when you participate in Church activities or complete other forms. The Church will not collect any personal information about visitors to the website except when they knowingly provide it. ​ In order to make a payment to Vertical Church Columbus all Users will need to submit certain personal information about themselves (as prompted by the Website and/or Application), including their name, phone number, postal and email address. Users may be asked to submit further information from time to time. Consent By accessing the Website and/or using the Application, all Users consent to the collection, use, disclosure, storage and processing of their information in accordance with this privacy policy. Changes to privacy policy The Church may amend or update this privacy policy from time to time, with or without notice to Users. All Users agree to be bound by the privacy policy that is in effect at the time they access the Website or use the Application. Protection of Personal Information The Church takes precautions — including administrative, technical, and physical measures — to safeguard your personal information against loss, theft, and misuse, as well as against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. Retention The Church will retain your personal information for the period necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined in this Privacy Policy unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law. Refund Policy Online contributions to the ministry Vertical Church Columbus are considered to be non-refundable. The refund policy for specific events is determined according to the nature of event. The event refund policy is posted within the event registration form.

Sundays at 10:00 AM 1290 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220 Fervent Worship A typical service begins with the worship band leading the congregation in singing vertically-focused worship songs in a contemporary style. Scripture-Driven Teaching Every week, Pastor Luke studies the Word of God and delivers a message centered on Scriptural truths and personal application to our everyday lives. Community We gather together to worship God in community. Our weekend service provides opportunities before or after the service to fellowship and connect with one another. What to Expect at Vertical Church FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What to Expect Do I have to be a Christian to come? Absolutely not! The church is open to all who seek God and the truth that He has given to mankind. Just don’t be suprised when we talk about Jesus. Do I need to bring a Bible? Everyone is encouraged to have a copy of scripture at home for personal study, but no worries if you need a copy; our ushers would love to provide you with one! Where do my kids go during service? Right off of the lobby, we have four safe, secure children’s ministry rooms for your children to learn and play during the entire service. The Vertical Kids ministry is open for toddlers–6th grade students where they will have engaging, age-appropriate curriculum to draw their hearts toward Jesus. Learn more about our children’s ministry here. Weekend Services at Vertical Church