Who we are

Vine Mission Statement:
To promote transforming growth among a generation of young believers through biblical  teaching, missions, and discipleship while embracing the diversity of the body of Christ.

Vine Vision:
To participate in a move of the Holy Spirit in our sanctuary, our community, and our world.

Phillip Allen - Vine Pastor

Phillip Allen, Jr. is a native of Georgetown, SC.  He is a former college basketball player while attending North Carolina A & T State Univ. in Greensboro, NC.  Phil, as he is affectionately called, once co-lead Brushfire Bible Studies, a young adult ministry founded in Los Angeles.  He is currently attending King’s College and Seminary in Van Nuys, CA pursuing his Bachelor of Theological Studies.  Phil has a heart and a passion for discipling believers in building a stronger walk with the Lord. Interesting things to know about Phil:  He is a published poet/spoken word artist with his book of poems entitled “The Psalmist”.  He is self-proclaimed, “the best Taboo player in the world”…his teams don’t lose! : )  He has the most adorable niece named Kearsin Alana.  He played in two NCAA basketball tournament…with two conference tournament MVP awards.        Ben Kolarcik - Worship Pastor   Ben grew up in Louisville, KY and began leading worship as early as middle school.    His pop/rock style and distinctive voice captivates his listeners with the depth of emotion expressed.   Ben recently moved to California with his beautiful wife and adorable 1 year old son from Nashville, TN.   As a 26 year old, Ben possesses a wealth of experience in leading people of all ages at worship events around the globe.   Interesting things to know about Ben: Ben is also the worship leader at Discovery Church in Simi Valley. He enjoys playing golf with his buddies. Ben also is a very competitive board game player.     Ashley Collins - Administrative Assistant   Ashley was born and raised in Southern California.   She has a passion for music and leads worship as Shepherd of the Hills- Woodland Hills.   She graduated from California Lutheran University with a Bachelors in Communications, emphasis in Advertising and Public Relations.   She assists Phil Allen, Rick Kyle and the Vine ministry teams.   Interesting things to know about Ashley: She and her husband met on a missions trip to Japan through Shepherd of the Hills in 2005.  They have been married 2 years and are expecting their first baby boy the beginning of March. Ashley used to sing Country Music professionally.  Her husband, Marty, thanks God that she no longer does.  (He is not a Country fan!)

Byron Aram - Worship/ Creative Arts

Byron was born in Bakersfield, California.  Just before entering Jr. High his family moved south to the LA area.  He grew up attending Shepherd of the Hills and started interning as a worship leader for the youth

ministry his senior year in High School. After spending another year interning at Shepherd’s church plant Real Life Church in Valencia, Byron returned to Shepherd and now works full time in creative arts and leading

worship for the High School and Vine ministries.  Byron was recently married in May 08’ and is excited about what God has planned for his future in ministry.

Rick Kyle - Emerging Generation Pastor

• Rick enjoys hanging with Katie at Starbucks and watching cartoons with Josh. 
• When he is not leading someone to Christ, he is usually at Starbucks ordering a Venti Chai Frapp with a light coffee base and 13 cubes of ice... with whip. 
• One time Rick tied up a female alligator and stole 3 of her babies. 

Louie Bookout - Worship

Louie was born right here in the good ol’ San Fernando Valley in 1987. His parents had never seen such a good-looking baby before he came along. On a more serious note, Louie’s passion is music and currently

leads worship for middle school and high school ministry. He feels God is using him through music to help minister to the youth across the San Fernando Valley. His hobbies consist of photography, hanging with

friends, and anything that sounds cliche’. Louie helps lead at The Vine on a regular basis.