Fellowship among believers of like-faith is extremely important for the structure and stability of any Christian organization. "God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 1:9). Fellowship conveys the unity this body of believers enjoys together and communicates a common bond or goal within that group. "And they were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer" (Acts 2:42).

The early Christians experienced an exceptional sense of unity with one another. Jesus Christ, who possessed a unique communion with God the Father, became the center of this fellowship and confessed that He and the Father were One.

Access to the Almighty God was available only through His Anointed Son. "What we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, that you also may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ" (1 John 1:3). After the resurrection, the Holy Spirit would be sent to solidify this connection of communion. Therefore, the entire Trinity participates in the companionship of the church. "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all" (2 Corinthians 13:14).

The missionaries of Slavic Missionary Service understand the utmost significance of fellowship, and those workers who are pastors utilize many activities to build strong relationships in their church communities. "And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more, as you see the day drawing near" (Hebrews 10:24-25). Within the church, believers must mature in their relationship with Christ and the Christian community. Then, they will be able to communicate to others that communion they enjoy with God and God's people. "And I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ's sake" (Philemon 6).

The aspiration of all of our SMS workers is to mature in the "deep things of God" (1 Corinthians 2:10) and maintain that unity with one another that He desires. "If we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).

May the "right hand of fellowship" (Galatians 2:9) be given to all who have experienced the grace of God and have been included within the body of Christ!