Christian writer, editor & practical theologian

Vine is all about abiding & John 15 -
The principle of staying near Jesus and remaining in Him has been a guiding theme in my life, so it seemed like the perfect name for this little corner of the internet.

I'm honored to partner with believers, ministries, and churches internationally to create content that connects hearts to God. My personal favorite and area of expertise within this is kids, teens, youth, and young adults.

A website cannot possibly be home to all that I am, but I hope Vine gives you a glimpse.

Read more about the person behind this website if you scroll down, or follow any of the buttons below to find what you're looking for, & feel free to use the contact form at the end of this page to reach out for further details.

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Welcome to Vine,

Here's a little overview of my life so far:

Growing up, I lived on a wine farm, and as time passed, it seemed that I couldn't quite escape the imagery of vines and wines.

'Abiding' (John 15) and Vine Creative Studio is more than an idea to me. It's something I feel in the core of my being.

I grew up in the faith and always understood the reality of God. I volunteered in Sunday school from a young age. After a few whirlwind detours, I ended up in a Theological Seminary, and to my surprise, I stayed.

While I studied I continued volunteering with youth organizations, leading summer camps, and helping out in both a youth and a kids ministry.

I completed my degree, postgraduate diploma, and Master's in Youth Work, a subdivision of the academic field called Practical Theology.

Practical Theology is not only concerned with reading the Bible and preaching it, but - essentially- with living it out in real life.
Youth Work describes any person under the age of 35 - So, a leading question is: "How are younger generations experiencing God?"

My husband, Armand, and I got married in 2020. I worked as Kids Ministry Coordinator for a church plant out of the US for four years, until we moved out of the city and onto a winefarm. (Armand is a winemaker)

Now, I work from home as a Christian writer, editor, and illustrator with believers worldwide.

I get to partner with people and help them clarify their messages - in books, curricula, and more. I also write for multiple Bible ministries who send out daily newsletters (one for teens, one for adults).

And then - just for fun - I do an illustration project here and there. I'm currently drawing Bible coloring pages that will form part of a new kids Bible storybook.

I'm writing these posts to you from my home in the Swartland wine region of South Africa, probably looking out at my garden and the vines beyond, and definitely sipping on a cup of coffee...

& a most recent life update at the time of writing this (Oct '26):

Now I'm about to become a mom through adoption & our little boy can come home any day now.

The vineyard Armand planted in our garden is flourishing & the rest... is yet to come.

May you find space here to

pause, reflect, and abide.

xx

Eljoh Hartzer

P.S.

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