Although originally founded in 1975, the Vineyard movement did not explode until John Wimber, an evangelist, pastor, and teacher (Fuller Theological Seminary) was asked to assume leadership over the growing movement. Today there are 1,500 churches world-wide and 550+ churches in the U.S. John Wimber's influence profoundly shaped the theology and practice of Vineyard churches. John was convinced that the biblical gifts of the Spirit were meant to active in the church today as part of God's kingdom.