From “Yes!” to “I Do” We’re Almost There!

Abby and Arnoldo met at a youth leadership meeting all the way back in 2017. At the time, there were no intentions or desires other than just being friends. So for many years, that is what they were, friends. Arnoldo focused on his own things, and Abby focused on hers, until one day, after a running race, they went to a worship conference together with some friends. It was there that Arnoldo thought, “Hmm, I think I like her,” and gave Abby a side hug. Abby's sister then recommended that he ask Abby out, and so Arnoldo did. It took over a month for a date to become official. But on Sunday, December 5, 2021, on a winter night at Café Benelux in Milwaukee, WI, Arnoldo stood his ground and said, “I am looking to get married one day,” to which a frightened Abby responded, “I do not date younger boys.” It took a couple of dates before Abby began to fall more and more in love with what her pastor called “a strong, muscular man.” It didn’t take heavy weights or a marathon to impress her, but rather a wrong turn to the wrong restaurant, patience, and a jean shirt to capture her heart. Over the years, everyone asked, “When is the wedding?” or “Why hasn’t he popped the question?” But their lives were too busy pursuing degrees and doing the Lord’s work through missions and youth ministries. Then, in December 2024, Arnoldo woke up one day and said, “You know what? I think it is time.” He went to a jewelry store and bought a ring that only Abby would love. Arnoldo would hold on to that ring for seven months! He knew exactly where he wanted to propose, the one place that made sense: a place where he could gather all their friends and family, where she would not be suspicious, where everyone would already be dressed nicely, and where cameras would already be there. Arnoldo would propose in front of 1,000 people, along with hundreds more watching online, at a convention in Naperville, IL. Was Arnoldo nervous? Yes. But with a few strings pulled, he managed to secure the stage on Friday, June 27, 2025, and popped the question to Abby. A little secret: Arnoldo practiced twice on how to propose properly on one knee, once with the AJEC regional board and once with his friend Ruben. He wasn’t sure what to say to Abby in front of everyone and ended up coming up with everything on the spot. This was enough to capture Abby’s heart and her tears and lead her to say yes, even though you couldn’t hear it. Now they look forward to all that God has in store for them, and they are grateful that you have joined them on this journey. They know the future is bright and that God still has work for them. From a hesitant beginning to a firm future, they cannot wait to be together forever. No more two-hour drives to see each other, no more waiting a weekend or longer to visit now they can come together as one.