The Vineyard Movement in Victoria:
The Vineyard Movement first was felt in Victoria in the late 1980s. Western Community Baptist at that time had leadership who were open to renewal. They went to a Vineyard conference in Vancouver and brought back an impartation.
Around this time, Brian and Della Headley started Victoria's first Vineyard. The Lord used Brian as a holy plow to break up the fallow ground. Even though there was resistance Brian was faithful to the vision that the Lord had given him.
In 1989 David and Yvette Hixson took over leadership from Brian. Some of the other people involved at this time were Tom and Joey Saunders, Bill Standeven, Ray Mau, Bruce Friesen and Larry Rogers.
Tom Saunders is significant in that he was with Victoria Vineyard under Brian Headley, and he is still very much involved in leadership. Tom was also responsible, along with Bob Brasset for bringing to Victoria a fresh anointing from TACF.
For many years Victoria Vineyard met at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre. This was a large hall, and the Lord poured out His spirit mightily in this place.
Many worship leaders were raised up during this time. It could almost be called a "worship revival".
Intercession also was a strength of Victoria Vineyard at this time. There was intercession at least twice a week. And revival was a major focus. Ray Mau was one of the main facilitators, and some other people involved were: Bruce Friesen, Bill Standeven, Peter and Betty Houpt, John Labell, David Hixson, Ed Anderson, Vince Smythe and Jeannette Chalifor/Bowman.
Victoria Vineyard hosted many conferences in Victoria and in Campbell River. There were conferences and seminars on Worship, The Father's Heart, Spiritual Warfare and Intercession. The church would also attend other conferences as a group.
From Victoria Vineyard were birthed other churches.
Eastgate Vineyard came out of Victoria Vineyard.
Eastgate Vineyard birthed Island View Vineyard and Rock the City - a youth church.
Eastgate Vineyard has now moved to Saanich, and have changed their name to Saanich Vineyard.
Victoria Vineyard has changed their name to reflect their current vision and focus - Victoria Harvest Church - an affiliate of Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship. They continue to have a strong presence in Victoria.
June.14.98 - last updated Dec.28.99