New Faith Based Business Opens in La Feria

Updated: October 17, 2024

By Mike Villarreal

La Feria has a new addition to its community. Well Refuge is a unique blend of a Bible bookstore and hangout. This exciting new venture had its grand opening on Saturday, October 5, 2024. The event featured music by Joe Blessed, food, and giveaways. Originally planned to be hosted outside, the grand opening was moved indoors due to the weather, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

At the heart of Well Refuge is a personal journey. Owners Cindy and Steve Rodriguez felt that divine intervention led them to open this shop as a way to connect with the community. Their story is one of faith and service, a journey that many in our community can relate to.

Cindy, who is from Los Fresnos, has ten years of nursing experience. Her husband, Steve, is from La Feria and graduated in 1992. He served in the Army for 26 years as a Chief Warrant Officer Level 4 and retired two years ago.

Cindy had a different name in mind for the shop, but it was taken, so she settled on Well Refuge, which she considers a sanctuary and a safe place for believers to be comfortable and enjoy coffee and snacks. She also believes the name Well Refuge symbolizes our thirst for living water, which appears in both the Old and New Testaments in the Bible. She is not alone in her beliefs, as her pastor, Diana Castillo of the Gathering of the Redeemed Church, works alongside her, providing spiritual guidance and support.
At Well Refuge, there’s something for everyone. They offer a wide variety of drinks, including coffee, soft drinks, hot cocoa, and hot tea, along with a range of snacks from nachos and Cheetos with cheese to corn in a cup, Frito pie, hot dogs, and Maruchen Ramen in many varieties. This diverse menu is designed to cater to the tastes of the entire community.

Cindy’s favorite verse is from John 4:14: “But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Well Refuge will have an open mic youth night on October 31, 2024, for anyone ages 5-21 to play an instrument, sing, or recite poetry. All performances must be faith-based, reflecting the values of Well Refuge, and everyone must register for a time slot.

Cindy and her husband, Steve, would like to extend a warm welcome to everyone who comes in for a visit and looks around without expecting to buy anything. They want you to know that prayer is always free at Well Refuge if you need encouragement. She also wants the youth of La Feria to come in and feel safe to hang out and do their homework in a comfortable environment.

Well Refuge is open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 6 pm and is located at 220 E. Oleander Ave. You can also reach them at 956-270-8880 or on Facebook.
Photos by Cindy Rodriguez