ARLINGTON, Texas — College students gather on Tuesday nights at Inclusion Coffee for The Jungle, a worship night hosted by Fielder Church dedicated to prayer, scripture and music.
For many, The Jungle is more than just another campus event. It is a refuge, a place to encounter faith in an authentic way. Founded by a group of students passionate about worship and community, the gathering has grown steadily, drawing attendees from universities across the area. What started as a small gathering has now become a well-known event among Christian students in Arlington, drawing dozens, sometimes hundreds, of participants each week.
“It’s a space where I feel completely free to express my faith,” Emma Johnson, a junior at the University of Texas at Arlington, said. “No matter how tough my week has been, stepping into The Jungle resets my heart and mind.”
The Jungle is part of Fielder Church, which provides support and guidance while allowing students to lead worship and ministry efforts. This structure enables students from different denominations and backgrounds to come together in unity. Worship is led by a student band, and messages are given by various speakers, often local pastors or student leaders.
One of the core values of The Jungle is authenticity. Attendees are encouraged to come as they are, bringing their struggles, questions, and hopes to God. The informal and welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home. Whether someone is new to their faith or has been a Christian for years, The Jungle creates space for spiritual growth and renewal.
Matthew Carter, a sophomore and worship leader for The Jungle, described the experience as transformational.
“It’s not just about the music,” he said. “It’s about creating an atmosphere where people can genuinely connect with God. We want to strip away distractions and just focus on His presence.”
A typical night at The Jungle starts with live music, ranging from contemporary Christian hits to original compositions by student musicians. The energy in the room is palpable, with hands raised high and voices lifted in song. After worship, a message is delivered, often followed by small group discussions or personal prayer time. The conversations sparked by these gatherings often continue beyond Tuesday nights, influencing students throughout the rest of the week.
Despite its growing popularity, The Jungle remains an intimate experience. Attendees often describe a strong sense of community, as strangers quickly become friends through shared faith and worship. Many students credit The Jungle for providing them with a spiritual support system that helps them navigate the challenges of college life.
“I came here feeling lost in college,” Joshua Hernandez, a senior who has been attending The Jungle for two years, said. “But here, I found a family. I found people who genuinely care about me and my relationship with God.”
The Jungle is also a space for students to serve. Many attendees volunteer in different capacities, from setting up chairs and running sound equipment to leading prayer groups and outreach efforts. The student-led nature of the event gives it a raw, authentic energy that many say is missing from traditional church settings. Leaders are intentional about mentoring and equipping students to grow not only in their faith but also in their leadership abilities.
One unique aspect of The Jungle is its outreach efforts. While the weekly worship nights are central to its mission, members also organize service projects and mission trips throughout the year. Whether it’s feeding the homeless, supporting local charities, or participating in international missions, The Jungle seeks to put faith into action beyond the walls of the church.
As the night winds down, students linger, sharing stories, praying for one another, and simply soaking in the moment. The atmosphere is filled with peace, and many attendees describe leaving The Jungle feeling spiritually refreshed and encouraged.
“College can be overwhelming, but The Jungle keeps me grounded,” Johnson said. “It reminds me that I’m never alone in my faith.”
