Lucas Selzler is Benjamin's cousin. Consequently, he has been a built-in friend for life! Many family events were spent together playing videogames, eating copious amounts of bread, and messing with sisters. Being of the same blood, Lucas is a very special person in Benjamin's life. Despite everything that happens in life Lucas has remained steadfast in his role as friend and family–not giving way to the troubles of life and relationship. Lucas and Benjamin continue to support one another in their careers, families, and lives. We appreciate Lucas and all he has done for us. We are honored to call him Best Man! "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24

Lilly is Lydia's oldest friend! They first met in the summer of 2017 at a Civil Air Patrol camp. Lydia and Lilly were paired together for the whole week, which started off their friendship strong. They continued this friendship all the way into college, where they are only an hour drive apart instead of the usual three! This helped their relationship blossom as they both strive to serve the Lord and find their vocations. Lilly is a strong Catholic woman with the most kind and loving personality you will ever find. She radiates the love of God to all, and truly believes in people. "Charm is deceptive and beauty fleeting; the woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." - Proverbs 31:30

Andrew Brown was Benjamin's bunkmate at Basic Military Training and a fellow crew chief that wrenches on aircraft in the great state of West Virginia. By chance and miracle, they attended Tech School at around the same time and even attended their final class and graduated together. Andrew helped Benjamin greatly as he was trying to figure out how to be a Christian in the military and was a great model to him on how to cultivate a relationship into a marriage. Benjamin even got to be one of Andrew's groomsmen for his wedding! Andrew was supposed to be sent on deployment over the date of our wedding, but by another miracle he is now able to celebrate with us. We are very thankful that the LORD allowed this to be! "Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm." Ephesians 6:13

Elizabeth is Lydia's cousin and confirmation sponsor. Lydia and Elizabeth grew up having many good times together playing cards, sledding and exploring the woods. Later in life, Elizabeth became a vital older role model for Lydia as a faithful catholic woman. Elizabeth has a great personality, and always has a good joke or one liner to keep the life of the party going. "In everything set them an example by doing what is good." -Titus 2:7

Elijah Ness is one of Benjamins long-time hometown buddies. They grew up together attending Homeschool events and attended the same church during middle and high school. Many days were wasted playing video games, discussing firearms, and making fun of communists! We wouldn't have wanted it any other way. Despite the geographic separation, Elijah continues to be a great friend as a man of character, confidant, and theological sparring partner. "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Proverbs 21:17

Helena is Lydia's cousin. Helena and Lydia grew up seeing each other a few times a year, as Lydia often lived far from the family. When Lydia's family moved to Minnesota, Helena and Lydia were able to build a wonderful friendship! They have had many good times together, including sledding, slip and slides, and many Texas Hold 'em games with Grandpa. Helena is a strong woman of God, with no fear and as honest as they come. She will always stand by you and isn't afraid to call you to be a better person. “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” – Proverbs 31:25

Benjamin and Martin met each other during their first year at the University of North Dakota after which they quickly learned they serve in the same Air National Guard Squadron as Crew Chiefs. After Benjamin invited him to Newman Center social events, they started hanging out regularly. Martin became a great influence in Benjamin's decision to come into communion with the Catholic Church and was even his confirmation sponsor. Martin continues to be an influential friend in the faith. Benjamin and Martin continue to foster brotherhood by attending Mass, Bible Study, and Men's group at the Newman Center. Martin is an incredible brother-in-Christ to have our backs! "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity." Proverbs 17:17

Hannah is a former FOCUS Catholic Missionary. Hannah and Lydia met when Lydia attended the University of North Dakota. They enjoyed many fun times together traveling to Wisconsin for spring break and swing dancing at barn dances! Many Tuesday nights were spent at Hannah's house watching The Chosen, enjoying the Gospel coming to life and learning the personalities of the Apostles. Hannah has been a very strong Catholic role model and influence in Lydia's walk with the Lord, as well as an amazing friend. “She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” – Proverbs 31:26

Harry Dunn has been a long time friend of Benjamin. They attended taekwondo, the Korean Art of the Sword, and Civil Air Patrol together during middle and high school. They feed off of each other's patriotism, sense of duty, and love of family. Despite living hundreds of miles apart they seem to be able to run into each other as they pursue their callings in the world whether it is simply visiting each other or running into each other at random concerts in South Dakota! Harry has been a loyal friend and virtuous man! "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Mary is Lydia's younger sister. Lydia was so thrilled to learn she was being blessed with her first sister in 2012. Mary's fiery red hair is reflective of her personality, which may be an imitation of a certain older sister. :) Mary is developing into a wonderful young woman and more importantly a woman of God! "Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

Felicity is Lydia's youngest sister. She is the girly girl of the family, with a special love for lipstick, dresses, and jewelry. Felicity is nine years old, but she acts like she is going on 21. :) She's very independent and loves to go off on her own adventures with her neighborhood friend. Felicity is a faithful young girl, always finding her little ways to serve others and God. "Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward." Psalm 127:3

Banner Ochsner is Benjamin's first cousin once removed. Son of Benjamin's cousin Elle Selzler and her fiance Aaron Ochsner. Banner is one year old. Because Elle and Aaron live and go to school at the University of North Dakota, we have gotten to watch this young man grow up from pregnancy until now! He has been a joy to all of us, and we are excited to see where life takes this young man! “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” Matthew 18:10

EJ is Lydia's younger brother. He is fourteen, and developing his interests in many subjects! EJ is a yo-yo master, Rubix cube solver, chess lover, and always has a good joke or pun for you. Emmanuel serves the Mass every week at his home parish with his closest friends. EJ is growing into a young man of God with many talents that he uses to serve the LORD. "But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant" Mark 10:43

Zane is a FOCUS Catholic Missionary. He is currently assigned as the lead at UND. Lydia and Ben met Zane at UND, and he has been an excellent example of how to live the faith. Zane has a kind heart and loves to meet new people. He always has a smile for everyone, and has great compassion for people. Zane works especially closely with new Catholics, helping answer questions they have and inviting them to go deeper in the faith. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Josh served as a FOCUS missionary last year at the University of North Dakota and has been a pivotal figure in Benjamin's faith formation. He was one of the first people (besides Lydia, Martin, and Father Chris) to invite Benjamin into community at the Newman Center through Bible Study and later the Discipleship program mentoring Benjamin and showing him how to lead a virtuous life. He is the model of the man Benjamin wants to imitate and we are ecstatic he is making the trip to serve the Mass for us! "Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us." Titus 2:6-8