In 1977 John Wimber planted a church called "Calvary Chapel of Yorba Linda". The church Grew quickly, attracting a large number of young people. In May of 1982, John Wimber, his church and other related churches left the Calvary movement and joined the fledging Vineyard movement initiated by Kenn Gulliksen. It was at this time that Calvary Chapel of Yorba Linda changed its name to Vineyard Christian Fellowship of Anaheim.

Recognizing John's greater leadership abilities, Kenn turned over leadership of the movement to him. Shortly after this the Lord gave John an incredible vision and commission to start a church planting movement.