a love story written by Jesus

We both dreamed of meeting our future spouse at church but after years at Elevation, we both didn't think that would be a reality. I guess we just needed to wait until the youth camp in 2024. That summer, Emily saw me in the lobby of Elevation Ballantyne and apparently saw enough to start having a crush on me but I had no idea THE Emily Condra (almost Schuchmann) even existed. It wasn't until November 20th that I finally had the privilege, nay the pleasure, to meet Emily. I had taught the previous week at a Youth Night, so Emily decided to finally come up to me and say something. That will be a moment that I remember forever because that was probably the most startled I had ever been in my life. I was so taken aback by her that I dropped a glass anointing oil jar all over the lobby floor. Yeah, that was a great first impression :) From there, we had many interactions that could only have happened with divine intervention which ultimately led me to asking her out on February 5th, 2025. After only a couple months of dating, we both knew we eventually wanted to get married, so I took the first step in June by asking Mr. Condra for her hand. It was interesting timing because that was also my first time meeting him. I guess I made a good enough impression for him to say "yes"! It wasn't until September that I finally proposed on the beautiful cliffs of San Diego to which Emily said "yes" before I could even finish the question. Our love story was written by God. It wasn't anything that Emily and I could have ever planned but we are so happy to start this next chapter with you all. We have the privilege of being surrounded by amazing people who lead us and have helped shape who we are today. We can't wait to celebrate everything God has done in our lives on April 10th amongst family and friends. With love, Emily & Dawson