Their story began in a place that has always mattered deeply to both of them—the church. On a Thursday night at Bible study at St. Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church in San Antonio, Beshoy noticed Mary during the meeting. Mary, on the other hand, only casually overheard him afterward—while he was talking to a group of people about travel. When Greece and Italy came up (two of her favorite places), she joined the conversation to add her thoughts. Beshoy jokes that this means she initiated; Mary insists she was simply joining the conversation. We’ll let you decide. What started as an easy conversation quickly revealed shared interests in faith, travel, photography, and experiencing different cultures. Mary admired Beshoy’s adventurous spirit, and over time, what stood out most to her was how deeply he cared for his friends and family and how naturally he showed up for others. Beshoy was drawn to Mary’s warmth, her love for family, and how easy she was to talk to. As the connection deepened, it became clear to him that Mary’s heart was set on building a Christ-centered home. For Mary, it was realizing—while he was traveling—that she didn’t just miss him, but felt añoranza—the kind of longing the Spanish describe as more than missing someone, but feeling their absence. From early on, God’s hand was evident in every step. Between Beshoy’s travels around the world and Mary frequently bouncing between New Jersey and Texas, it became clear that what brought them together was far stronger than logistics. Beshoy’s thoughtfulness showed itself right away, especially on their first date—an entire day planned around things Mary had casually mentioned loving: water, sunsets, scenic views, live music, and dessert shared at the end of the night. It set the tone for a relationship full of care, laughter, and meaningful moments. True to form, Beshoy proposed in a way Mary will never forget—surprising her in Barcelona while she was there for a friend’s wedding. Huge shoutout to Ally & Johny Yaccoub for getting married in Spain and unknowingly bringing Mary to a place that was already incredibly meaningful for Beshoy—and now, for them both. Another huge shoutout to Monica Abdelsayed, who flew across the world after the wedding and stayed for just two nights to help secretly coordinate getting Mary to the exact spot where Beshoy—who was supposed to be at work in Arkansas—was waiting. Mary was shocked, shaking, and completely in disbelief. Above all, they know and see God’s hand in every part of their story. They are deeply grateful for their families, their friends, and the community that has surrounded them with love and support. They look forward to beginning their marriage rooted in faith, filled with joy, and sharing a lifetime of adventures—starting with celebrating alongside all of you!