The year 2019 started off just like every other year. Josh was leading worship at a new service at Crossroads Methodist Church in Washington called "309" and spent most of his time writing new songs on his guitar. Emily was finishing up student teaching at Bradley University and was busy getting ready for her very own classroom in 2nd grade. Both Josh and Emily spent their Sunday mornings at Crossroads Methodist Church, but at different times and in different rooms. Until one day, their paths would cross.

It was a special Ash Wednesday service in March when Crossroads decided to hold the service in the 309 room rather than the Sanctuary. Josh remembers the moment Emily walked in the room and hugged Pastor Jason before finding her seat. Emily remembers the moment the music started and she looked up to land her gaze on quite a handsome guy standing on the stage playing his guitar--and then he started singing.

A few Sundays pass and Emily starts attending the 309 service rather than the 11:00 service, for obvious reasons.

One day, while sitting with her family, her Uncle Joe decides to introduce his friend, Josh, to Emily. Eventually, Josh starts coming to sit next to Emily after he finishes leading worship and they listen to the rest of the sermon together. Soon, the two start meeting for coffee--I really should say "coffees" as they were really there for hours--and get to know each other.

On June 22, 2019, while watching a movie, Josh asks Emily to be his girlfriend and she excitedly says yes!

Fast forward 4 1/2 years to Christmas break. It's Winter Solstice and the day before a big snowstorm is supposed to hit. Josh asks Emily if she wants to dress up and take some fun Christmas pictures at the park nearby her house. Plus the dog could use a good walk before being stuck in the house during the storm. He had her way back at "Christmas pictures." While Emily was looking around for the best spot for their first round of pictures, Josh was getting down on one knee. In total surprise and overcome with joy and excitement, Emily forgot to say "YES!"

Looking ahead to June 22, 2024--Summer Solstice--Josh and Emily are so excited to share their special day with all of their friends and family. They pray that day will be filled with a tangible feeling of the presence of our Holy Spirit, and the love of those most important to them both as they make some of the biggest promises of their life both to each other and to our Heavenly Father.

Thank you for sharing in this special chapter with them and for your prayers leading up to the big day!

Love,

Josh and Emily