Wedding Party
Betty Beyene
Maid of Honor
When Mikal was born I was so excited to finally have a little sister. She was like a doll that I used to play with. She had long hair that I'd braid. I’d take her with me to hang out with my friends. She was always quiet, gentle, and sweet. She used to love to rub your face while sucking her thumb and falling asleep. One thing I’d say about Mikal is that she’s still the same sweet, kind, and nurturing person. She’ll make a great wife, and mother in the future. I wish her and Patrick a life time of love and happiness ♥️
Jean Jocelyn
Best Man
It was July 30th, 1991 and I was so excited to meet my baby brother! The day my mom arrived home I walked into the room and climbed up onto the bed. I gently touched his head and said, "Hey whats up...I'm Jean, your big brother. Thats when my mom said "Jean...thats your brother Patrick" lol. I was in awe at how tiny he looked. Fast foward to December 2020 my little brother is getting married! Its amazing how time flies. I've watched you grow into a respectful, educated, and loving young man. You make me proud. Looking foward to the big day pachooko 😂
Christian Scott
Matron of Honor
I still remember the first time we met. It was like the first or second week of being in Georgia Hall dorms and I introduced myself in the hall with nothing on but a towel. You gave me the strangest look and I knew from there that we would be besties! Mikal I love you and have considered you a sister since day 1! I have always admired you and looked up to you as a person. Our friendship has survived the critical years of life and we MADE IT!!!! Our friendship even survived distance when I lived in Italy, that’s impressive! I’m super thrilled for you and this next chapter of your life as a married woman!! I can’t wait to watch you grow and blossom into an amazing wife. Love you bestie!!!!
Tim Jean
Best Man
Pat and I go way back to junior high school. When we first met, we couldn’t imagine the brotherhood we have would form the way it did. We would always joke about Pat being so disciplined and militant as a kid. It felt like Pat worked three jobs and went to school on his free time. It’s a testament to his character. He is one of the most compassionate and committed people you’ll ever come across. I’m a better man because of him and I’m really excited for him and his wife Mikal!
Luna Beyene
Bridesmaid
Having three sisters, you learn to live with a lot of different personalities. Mikal is the bubbliest of us all. Being a realist, her unwavering optimism always kinda got on my nerves. Whenever I feel unsure about something, or like there’s no hope, I can always look to Mikal to give me a different perspective. She gives me hope and faith that things will always work out, even when my deepest doubts prevail. I’m so happy to see that Mikal has found someone who shares her unwavering optimism, so they can build on each other’s faith, and into a long and beautiful future together. Love, Luna
Sirak Beyene
Groomsman
Growing up as brother and sister, like many siblings so close together in age, Mikal and I fought. But, as we grew older we became good friends, we could talk to each other about almost anything and loved our rainy day siblings only movie days; which is why it makes me so happy that my loving and caring sister has found someone she loves enough to marry. I wish them a long, happy and prosperous life together and look forward into growing our families into one.
Tahisha Jocelyn
Bridesmaid
I’m so excited to be apart of this huge milestone in both Patrick and Mikal’s life. I think it’s a beautiful thing to witness two people who are in love choosing to take their next steps by the grace of God. Patrick is a good man with a strong sense of integrity. He has all the qualities of someone who is well diverse with his thinking and viewpoints. Knowing all the things it took him to get where he is today just emphasizes the happiness I have for him in this moment. I love my brother Patrick for everything he’s helped me with in realizing growing up. I love that he’s getting his happy ending with someone I know he’s holding close to his heart.
Bryant Parsons
Groomsman
Patrick and I met in a small group church gathering. My first impressions were that Patrick was quiet but contemplative--taking in everything the group discussed. Though Patrick wasn't a man of many words, it was clear that he loved God and wanted to serve others. This fact is what prompted me to ask Patrick to move to Brooklyn in order to do life together with other Christians. Words would fail to describe the impact that Patrick and I would have on each other's lives during our time of living together. I am especially honored to stand with Patrick as he marries his beautiful bride.
Sarah Smalls
Bridesmaid
Thinking back, I honestly don’t remember the moment that I met Mikal. I know for sure it was freshman year, but where specifically, I’m not sure. What I am sure of is that my life has been better since this beautiful woman & I became friends. Mikal is one of the sweetest, kindest, & gentlest women I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet & get to know. She has encouraged me, prayed with & for me, & held me accountable. She is truly a gem. Mikal loves deeply & intentionally. Her calm demeanor draws you in & her loving, nurturing nature keeps you. Although I haven’t seen Mikal in a few years (life got busy, chile), I know that she’s there for me. We pick up without skipping a beat every time. In closing, Mikal is a gracefully beautiful soul that I’m honored to have in my life.
Caleb Asomugha
Groomsman
I met Patrick in 2017 when moving into "The Manor" (an intentional Christian co-living space in Flatbush, BK) with 2 other friends. When we moved in, my first impressions of him was that he was a super serious, very reserved and very disciplined guy. However, after doing life with him for nearly 4 years now, i've realized that Patrick's reservation is really a combination of introversion and wisdom. Moreso, I've come to understand that Pat is an intuitive leader, a loyal friend and a humble brother who loves deeply. I'm super excited for this next step in his life. More life!
Lamesha Brown
Bridesmaid
I met Mikal during her last semester of undergraduate and my first semester of graduate school at Valdosta State University. We attended New Life Ministries and stayed after bible study one evening, as they had food available. Even though we met that fall, our friendship grew after I moved to Atlanta. From our travels to our conversations, God has always been the center of our relationship and I am SO thankful to have her in my life! What I have seen and admire in her, is her love for her family and friends, her ability to forgive, and her heart for serving Christ and His people. I am grateful for all of the moments we got to spend together. Now, even though we are miles apart, I am still so grateful to share in this moment!
Patrick Louis
Groomsman
Patrick has been an inspiration to me from day 1. Patrick inspires me to be a better version of myself; he is naturally gifted in bringing out the best in those around him. I benefit from that gift and I’ll always cherish that about our brotherhood. I’m hopeful that you will play a similar role in Aalayah’s life which was a major influence to make you her godfather. You have also inspired me through your work ethic which is second to none. You’ve always worked both hard and smart. I also realize that you are a man of faith. And you’re unapologetic about your faith; you wear the grace of God with the upmost pride. I pray that The Lord would continue to guide and protect you and Mikal as you begin this new journey as husband and wife. Know I’m always here for you guys. Love you my brother.
Jenise Sexton
Bridesmaid
If you drew a picture of compassion, inclusion, inviting, and lover of Christ, it would look like Mikal. A connection that began at Grace Snell Middle School for us became a forever friendship through the grace of God. Everyone deserves a friend who introduces them to new experiences, prays with them, cries and rejoices with them and invites them along their journey with the Lord. I’ve been blessed with a friend who is all of this, her name is Mikal.
Mark Atkinson
Groomsman
I had the privilege of meeting Patrick through our mutual close friend Tim Jean back in college. The first time I met Pat, he and Tim held a series of Bible Studies at my house and we became fast friends and developed a deep brotherhood pretty quickly. We were able to be an encouragement to each other during some pretty formative years of our lives and Patrick has always been one of my closest levels of accountability in my life (#MTC). He's seen me through some incredibly dark moments as well as phenomenally bright moments in my life. In our current season, it has been one of my greatest pleasures to see the relationship, romance, and love between Patrick and Mikal grow. I'm ecstatic that he has found his forever love.
Jane Oh Le
Bridesmaid
We met at victory world church probably through a small group. First impression was that you were seeking God & to go deeper. Our friendship is one where we can go out to have fun at a live concert, meet new people, and Karaoke in front of strangers. It is also chill where we can spend all day at home cooking, talking, praising on the guitar & keys or sitting in the jacuzzi while beatboxing some new song. It’s deep where we can speak prophecies over each other & encourage to grow closer with God & trust each other with our deep things. It’s unlike any other friendship I have!
Rich Bowman
Groomsman
A relationship with Patrick is like sitting down to a phenomenal 3 course dinner. The appetizer is his discipline. When Patrick applies his mind and hands to a mission he brings a high level of excellence into it. This appetizer left me inspired. Most days I wish I could be as diligent lol. The main course is his heart. When you get to know Patrick more you realize his care for others far surpasses his expertise in execution. This main course has left me feeling loved. Every conversation with Patrick is a renewed promise that he is in your corner. And for dessert Patrick lets you into his vulnerabilities. He invites you into his own brokenness and allows you to add your God-given wisdom to his life. This is the part where you realize what makes Patrick great is his surrender to Jesus.
Brittney Uilani
Bridesmaid
I first met Mikal while we were both planning to move to Vacaville, Ca to attend Worship School. We first met on FT, she was at Starbucks in GA & I was at home in Hawai’i. My first impression of her was that she was mature, intelligent & kind. I love our friendship, I thank God for handpicking Mikal to be in my life & experience all we've experienced together. She was one of the first people I began to live a humble, open & transparent life with— where i felt safe to boast about Gods goodness but also not neglect the dark or more complex things in life that we need to talk about in order to heal. Mikal is one of my greatest friends that have become family. She's a friend i can come to & always expect truth from no matter what its about. Thank you for being a real one i can count on
Jonathan Richardson
Groomsman
Patrick and I met at Elmont Memorial High School, class of 2009. Fast forward to 2014 is when our friendship deepened when we became believers in Jesus Christ. Myself and Patrick became closer and we shared our testimonies of how we became believers. Since then, I've been able to to see Patrick grow year after year. I've been able to watch him serve his community and lead ministries that impacted people. His zeal for Christ has impacted me positively in so many ways and I'm excited to see him get married to a God fearing women. I'm glad to have a lifelong brother in Christ to be walking along side with. #BeyComingJocelyn
Alexandra Veitschegger
Bridesmaid
Mikal and I have an amazing friendship that was truly brought together by God. We met at a church in California and immediately recognized we were soul sisters! I love our friendship because we balance each other so well, fight for each other in prayer and both value good communication. I love Mikal because she is fiery, passionate and has a huge heart for her community. Her journey to Patrick has been filled with many ups and downs but I feel so honored to support this marriage and have nothing but hope and expectancy for their future!!
Ron Paul
Groomsman
I met Pat in 2013 through a friend in a Men’s group. After having an edifying conversation, I pulled our mutual friend to the side and told him, “Pat is gonna be ok. He’s a soldier.” I said this not because Pat was such a great person, or because he grasped all the important biblical concepts. I said this because it was clear that he understood THE most important biblical concept; Christ died for him and rose again that Pat may have a new life in Him. Therefore, Pat’s life is no longer his own. Patrick was committed. It is that commitment that has led him to this point. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) God. Led. Patrick. To. Mikal. And to Him be the Glory.
Yvonne Eseonu
Bridesmaid
I met Mikal in Bridge Church shortly after she moved to New York. I remember noticing her during worship and admiring her praise. After service we connected and from there we began our friendship. Over the last year it's been wonderful to know and experience the love that Mikal has for God. It's indeed contagious and pleasantly sobering. The cool thing about growing together is witnessing the courage she walks with. Whether we are taking a casual stroll, listening to old records, or watching the "Real" over Zoom, it's never a dull moment. I am glad vulnerability has been a pillar of our friendship and we have always been able to show up as is without pretense. I am so excited for this moment for you and I love you deeply.
Itiel Jimenez
Groomsman
I met Patrick at a Bridge Church, fall 2017. I decided to move in after my interaction with the guys from The Manor. Living with these guys is what I needed. I had no idea how it would impact me at first. Patrick presented me with lessons that I will take for the rest of my life. From scheduling, dedication, and work ethic, to patience, humility, and maturity. Patrick has grown to be outstanding and inspirational. I know Mikal feels worthy to be receiving him as a husband. A part of me feels like I'm losing a brother. I'm going to miss Patrick. I know he's moving on to bigger and greater things. That inspires me and makes me happy. I love this guy and I'm excited for the future. He also cuts hair, cooks, and can repair probably literally anything. No joke.
Luam Haile
Flower Girl
When Luam found out she was going to be the flower girl for her cousin Mikal's wedding, she was over the moon excited! You can count on a flawless performance from her because she's been practicing non-stop since she found out!
Oladipo Koiki
Groomsman
Unfortunately, I can't recall my first impressions of Patrick. I may have taken one of the greatest moments for granted. But I can shed light on something far more interesting; a secret about Patrick I noticed as I wrote this piece. Patrick has all of the wisdom King Solomon left behind. I know this because while my friends & I were off doing what teens do in high school; Patrick was establishing himself as: The most diligent, Well-spoken, Honest, Focused, & Trustworthy Individual that; FedEx, JetBlue, Bridge Church, & Everyone who had the honor of sharing a moment with him & Mikal who will have a lifetime of moments with him, has ever met. Patrick is 1 of 1. He is a Man's Man, a Woman's Dream a Brother's Right-Hand, & a Soldier Of The Kross. Cheers to the G.O.A.T of wise expressions.
Tristan Scott
Ring Bearer
“Congratulations on your marriage together and thank you for letting me be the ring bearer” Good luck and have a happy life together." (in Tristan's own words 😂)
Victor Galloway
Groomsman
Patrick and I first met at "Yayo's" the spanish restaurant near Bridge church. I've desired to be like him ever since. From day one, Patrick has been one of the most humble, hard working & honest men i've ever known. He's led me in prayer and encouraged me on countless occasions. A brother who LOVES people. I genuinely love being around this man. Mikal is AMAZING & i've seen her bring out the best in my bro. I look forward to the laughs, cries and everything in between with you both! Love y'all!
Aniya Selman
Junior Bridesmaid
I want to start off by saying congratulations to these beautiful two people. Now I don’t know Patrick that well but if Mikal says he a good and genuine person then I trust her since she also consider me someone special to her. It all started with Mikal talking to my mom in a parking lot and all I could think is that she really pretty, but I must NOT look her in the eye. It took some time, but I grow on to learn that she was beautiful inside and out. Within that time, we have grown together, and she is part of the reason I am who I am today. Though there is an age difference that didn’t stop us from jamming in the middle of Candytopia and just enjoying each other's company. I’m happy she has found her match and I wish them all the best.
Pastor James Roberson III
Officiant
FAMILY: I was born and raised in Westchester, NY. Though I grew up in church, my relationship with God was defined more by praying for wins in football and passing classes in school. It wasn’t until college, that I was introduced to a consistent lifestyle of living for God, through Campus Crusade for Christ. I met my wife, Natarsha, doing college ministry at a leadership conference. We have two daughters; Faith who is six & Leah who is five. MINISTRY EXPERIENCE: Once my collegiate football career ended, I helped start a campus ministry called IMPACT, geared towards reaching out to the African American community. This experience was a turning point in my life, & I realized the most influential way to change the world was to preach The Gospel. In that moment, I committed my life to ministry.