Grace and Tommy met while attending a young adult retreat. They began dating on February 15th and got engaged September 24th, 2024. Grace and Tommy’s story hasn’t been easy, their entire dating relationship has been full of hardship and trial. They have loved each other through a church split, two deaths in the family, job loss, and other trials. Despite these trials they are still boldly pursuing God. Their goal for their marriage and relationship is to show the love of Jesus, out do one another in serving each other, the community, and their family.

Grace grew up in a Christian household, where she worshiped Jesus. She attended a public school where bullying was widespread, and she was subject to being bullied. She moved districts when she went into middle school, and began to walk away from Jesus. She figured that if other people didn’t love her, why would God love her? After questioning her faith for several years she rededicated her life to Jesus at the age of 15. It was through the gentle guidance of her parents and mentors that she saw the love of Jesus. Instead of God hating her like other people did, she realized the Lord loved her so much he would give up his son for her (John 3:16). It was that point on that she decided that she would pursue the Lord and dedicate her life to serving him and his people.

Tommy grew up in a Buddhist household. He was born with Hemifacial Microsomia and Microtia. Those were congenital facial deformities that left the right side of his face underdeveloped. It caused him to be born with half a jaw and a missing right ear.

Growing up, he struggled with identity and fitting in. He didn't know who he was or where he belonged. He thought that because he didn't "look normal" and that no one would find worth or value in him.

After searching for his value through unhealthy friendships, numbing his insecurities with excessive gaming, and excessive people pleasing, he decided to give his life to Jesus.

Tommy finally understood that his worth and value didn't come from people, things, or pleasure, but it came from a God who made him with purpose and intentionality from the womb. He understood that the things that were considered "desirable" like his looks or "weak" like his personality, were actually made perfect in Christ. For it is Jesus' power that is made perfect in his "weakness." 2 Cor. 12:9

By giving his life to Jesus, his entire world radically changed. He now understands true love, compassion, and purpose from the person that knows him best. Jesus Christ.

Following Jesus was the best decision he has ever made.