by amy richmond, contributing writer

Since Creation, man has yearned for companions in life. It is a God-given instinct to seek out friends and fellowship, but why? The ultimate knowledge source, the Bible, gives us a greater perspective in Philippians 2:1-5. "If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish amibition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ."

Recognizing this need for fellowship, Stonebriar provides a myriad of fellowship opportunities, including Adult Fellowships (AFs) and Home Adult Fellowships (HAFs). AFs meet weekly at SCC and allow attendees to grow spiritually and be part of an authentic, smaller community. Paxton Kelso's AF, The Journey, for newly married couples in their 20s, meets every Sunday. For the Kelsos, the friendships and the genuine nature of the class sets this AF apart. 

"The Christian life (and even life) is hard, but to have folks aware of those same troubles and tribulations, and then to have them at a moment's notice to help you along is an enormous blessings," Paxton said. "This fellowship is the Christian walk actually lived out . . . encouraging and praying for one another, delivering meals, serving, and trying to walk more closely with God than you did the day before." As an example, "When  Pam and I were trying to get pregnant we had the opportunity to talk with other couples going through the same struggle. It made all the difference knowing we were not alone and that God was asking others to wait too. Since we have had our little boy, we have had the opportunity to share with other couples going through the process.

Home Adult Fellowships (HAFs) meet at a facilitator's home, instead of on the church campus, various nights during the week. The Wire Home Fellowship, led by David and Lorraine Wire, meets every other Thursday night at 7 and provides a small-group community for couples in their 50s seeking spiritual growth and fellowship. For Laura and John Hull, this group has helped them see the importance of fellowship. "As we pray for one another we all become closer," Laura shared, and John elaborated, "All of us have grown close and feel accepted and welcome." Outside Bible study, Laura warns, "Our group can get pretty competitive on games nights, and we love to eat."

The benefits of being part of an AF or HAF outweigh the simple exchange of names. Friendships are formed, spirituality grows, members are encouraged through the hills and valleys of life. As Paxtor reiterates, "If you want to see God visibly move, find a group of other believers who want to know God in a more personal way. Then be in fellowship and watch what happens." AFs and HAFs are available for every stage of life—all you need to do is show up.

For information on AFs and HAFs, visit the Adult Fellowship Groups webpage.