In September 1992, at a pastor’s conference, John Wimber outlined areas that are essential characteristics of Vineyard churches. He called these the Vineyard Genetic Code because they are common traits that identify us as a family. 

• The Bible taught as the Word of God with application for daily living
• Evidence of an ongoing ministry to the poor/broken/divorced etc
• Evangelism going on in all ways and at every level
• A strong emphasis on healing, signs and wonders
• Small groups of adults involved in ministry, discipleship and mutual care with responsibilities
• Effective training and equipping of the people for works of ministry
• Involvement and interaction with other churches for inter-church unity
• Good, meaningful worship through the singing of contemporary songs, giving and the preaching of the Word
• The encouragement and the exercising of spiritual gifts
• Missions - domestic & foreign, especially in the form of church planting.