In the midst of all this, through a lot of prayer and processing the Lord led Cassandra to join a Destino team in Los Angeles. There she could serve the Latino community and immerse herself in the urban context. In 2022, she became fully funded, packed her car in Michigan and was off to serve the Lord in California…. For the first time, Cassandra and Richard were living in the same city.

Now, living only 10 minutes apart, their paths frequently crossed at ministry events and through mutual friends. Having surrendered each other to the Lord and grown individually, they were able to watch one another be used by God in their communities, often collaborating in ministry with each other. They were excited to be back in one another's lives in this way.

As their friendship slowly rekindled, they noticed themselves finding ways to see each other almost every day - playing volleyball, soccer, serving together and getting boba. It was just like old times... and then the spark happened. As they were heading to a worship night at Cassandra’s church, they both realized that their love for one another had reignited.

In May 2023, Richard boldly asked Cassandra if she would go on a date with him. "This feels like the next right step." she responded. After having much peace about exploring this aspect of their relationship, it didn’t take long before Richard asked Cassandra to be his girlfriend.

Their relationship blossomed quickly, as they explored this new romantic element, building upon their deeply rooted friendship. Richard and Cassandra delighted in one another, cared for each other, and knew in their hearts they yearned for more. After six months, they discussed their future desires, agreeing on their shared dream of one day becoming husband and wife.

They covered themselves in prayer inviting the Lord and others into the next possible steps. They pursued pre engagement counseling and felt all the more convinced and prepared for the calling God had on their lives with each other.

C&R