Emily and I met through a mutual friend at a volleyball party in May 2022 (and discovered we had the same birthday!). We met again at the Penn State Change of Campus Orientation at State College in August 2022 when I recognized her face in a crowd of unfamiliar faces. We exchanged phone numbers with a new group of friends, and that night, she asked me to teach her how to use the gym! From that day forward, we frequently went to the gym together and quickly bonded over our shared faith in Christ, love for adventure, and sports. I eventually asked Emily out on our first date on November 2nd, 2022, at Red Lobster. From that day forward, we have only grown in love for one another, so much so that I asked her to be my wife at the top of Thousand Steps on October 13th, 2024. She said yes!

We both grew tremendously in our faith by becoming leaders in Disciple Makers Christian Fellowship (DCF) at Penn State, attending church together, and leading Bible studies. Jesus has been and will continue to be the solid foundation of our relationship, the One we turn to during the good and the bad. From the beginning, our faith in Christ has guided us, providing strength and wisdom in every decision we make. In moments of joy, we celebrate His blessings, and in times of challenge, we find comfort in His unwavering love and grace.

As we embark on this new chapter together, we are confident that with Jesus at the center, our bond will only grow stronger, grounded in faith, hope, and love. Our commitment to each other is deeply rooted in our shared devotion to Him, and we strive to reflect His love in our marriage just as Christ loves the Church.