Fall Semester 2022

Ben and Jess entered the school year expecting everything except a relationship. Jess arrived as an incoming freshman eager to build friendships with the girls in Printy, dive into education, and grow deeper in the Word, while Ben returned as a sophomore ready to pour into life in Lawlor and step further into schooling and ministry. God first crossed their paths through their bro/sis units in Lawlor and Printy—most memorably during speed dating, where Jess accidentally introduced herself as “Ben,” and later that evening at Chuck’s and Fall Bible Conference, where Ben first noticed Jess’ fake southern accent, but also her genuine love for the Lord. As the semester unfolded, their connection grew naturally within a friend group affectionately known as the “Lawlinty Weirdos,” filled with hikes, late-night talks, library study breaks, tea-times, game nights, and rich, intentional conversations. Surrounded by God-given friends who encouraged patience, wisdom, and prayer, they began to notice each other’s hearts.

Spring Semester 2023

Though friends teased and nudged (especially after Ben planned an elaborate scavenger hunt for Jess’ November birthday “just as a friend”), Ben and Jess waited, allowing their friendship to continue to grow over time. As spring semester began, their walks to church to serve in Wednesday night youth ministry became a space for more one-on-one conversations. Ben had been praying for quite some time, and in February, with peace from the Lord, he finally asked Jess out. The next morning, they met for coffee at Rinnova, where they confessed their feelings and praised God for the way He had faithfully grown their friendship. After about an hour of talking, they walked to chapel afterward smiling ear to ear with joy and excitement.

Spring Semester 2023- Spring Semester 2025

Jess and Ben officially began dating on March 13, 2023, and spent the next two years getting to know each other until their engagement on April 19, 2025. During that season of dating, the Lord blessed them with a summer serving at Twin Lakes Camp and two more years at Cedarville, where they learned how to support one another through various seasons of life.

Looking Ahead

Jess and Ben are grateful for the way the Lord has faithfully led their story. With Ben pursuing full-time ministry and Jess stepping into a career in education, they look forward to seeing how God uses their ministry platforms to serve His people and expand His kingdom.