Hugs. Laughter. Joy. Peace. Friendship. Late-night heart-to-heart conversations. Sharing experiences and the wisdom gained through them. Love. These are the words that come to mind when I try to pinpoint what fellowship is; it is the bond developed between two or more people when intentional time is spent together. My definition of fellowship has been mostly formed during my time at Tejas through the fellowship I have been able to enjoy with the other staff members and through observing the groups that come here.

When I slip into a group’s conference room late at night or early in the morning, when there are no structured activities happening, I see organic fellowship being enjoyed. People sit and play dominoes or share their testimony. They burst into spontaneous songs of praise. They step outside to a bench or swing to share things too personal for large groups. They love one another and their love is felt by everyone in the room – even me, as I empty a trash can or refill coffee creamer. At meal times I see another kind of fellowship. The noise level in the dining hall goes up as everyone enjoys time where they are not having to work or focus on a task, but instead are able to enjoy good food and good company. They are getting away from their busy everyday life, finding peace and being refreshed. This is what fellowship is. It allows us to be still and know that He is God.

I have learned even more personally what fellowship means through the time I have with the other staff members at Tejas. We not only work together, but we love to see one another, whether at our weekly staff lunches and chapel times or our monthly dessert and game nights. This is exactly what Tejas seeks to provide for our staff and our guests alike: a place to share your heart with others and with God, and receive encouragement from Him and His people.