The beginning of our next chapter!

Chris and Chara’s story began with a seemingly random comment in a Christian singles Facebook group—one that put their names in the same sentence for the first time. As they each began to explore who this other person was, they quickly realized a connection beyond what they could have imagined. What started as a friendship built on shared values and a lot of laughter soon deepened into genuine attraction when they met in person. Despite the 2,000 miles between them, love was growing in their hearts. The foundation of friendship made the transition to a deeply rooted love feel almost effortless. The distance became less of an obstacle and more of a challenge they were willing to take on. As hours of conversation, flights back and forth, and time spent with family and friends increased, so did their desire for a future together. On the shores of a frigid Lake Michigan around sunset in mid-January—six months after they began dating—Chris got down on one knee and asked Chara to marry him. With a confident and jubilant “YES,” their engagement began. With an awareness of life’s unpredictable shifts and a deep desire to honor God through their love and commitment, they now move toward marriage, declaring before both God and man that they will choose this love daily and cherish the lifelong covenant.