Our story is undeniably a divine orchestration. Here’s my heartfelt version of how it all unfolded:

Matt and I first crossed paths at America’s Keswick, both carrying our brokenness and earnestly seeking the Lord to restore our lives. It was a time of transformation; God turned our lives, once mired in sin, into a journey filled with freedom in Christ Jesus. From the ashes of our pasts, He crafted us into new creations.

Our focus remained steadfastly on the Lord, and we navigated life with no expectation of a romantic relationship. Matt took a leap of faith, committing to a full-time position at America’s Keswick, while I returned to the area I was from. Both of us followed the Lord’s calling in our lives. God guided Matt to stay at the ministry, while I was led back to my community at Calvary Chapel Old Bridge.

In the Summer of 2024, I accepted a role in Children’s Ministry. To prepare for this new chapter, I worked over Memorial Weekend. I’ve had many other visits back to Keswick since graduating. When I saw Matt, something compelled me to share my new position with him. Little did I know this was the moment the Lord began to stir something profound in both our hearts, even as we remained unaware of each other’s evolving feelings.

As I prayed, I sensed God impressing upon my heart the notion that I would meet my future husband that summer. Never did I consider that it could be someone currently working at the ministry—let alone Matt. During a conversation with a close friend, who is now one of my bridesmaids, I shared the gentle nudging in my spirit about meeting my husband. She wholeheartedly agreed and suggested, “What about Matt?” My immediate reaction was a firm “No way!”

However, throughout the following week, the phrase “What about Matt?” echoed incessantly in my prayers. This persistent whisper prompted me to earnestly seek God’s guidance. In my heart, I found an unexpected peace accompanied by numerous confirmations through scripture and the wise counsel of my mentor, who is now my maid of honor. With each affirmation, I felt the Lord preparing my heart for a beautiful journey ahead.

The Lord instilled in me the virtue of patience as I patiently awaited the fulfillment of His promise. I held onto the belief that if this was truly the Lord's will, it would inevitably come to fruition.

Then, one unforgettable day, after a month of dedicating myself to the Children’s Ministry over the summer, Matthew James approached me as he graciously pursued a date, a wave of serenity washed over me—Thank You Lord! Rather quickly I was sure that this was the man destined to be my husband.

On the enchanting day of October 11th, 2024, the moment arrived when Matt knelt before me, filled with love and anticipation, and asked if I would take his hand in marriage. Overwhelmed with joy, I exclaimed a resounding yes, bubbling with laughter and happiness as I embraced the beautiful promise of our future together.

We are filled with excitement as we look forward to everything God has planned for our future together. This significant moment of commitment, shared in His presence and witnessed by all of you, beautifully symbolizes our heartfelt willingness to embrace His guidance. We say "yes" to the mission and the meaningful works He has set before us, eager to embark on this extraordinary journey of faith and purpose.

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