Wedding Party
Joshua Jerrell Manoi
My Groom
“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.” Eph. 5:22 This is a verse I've heard many times throughout my life, and one that once unsettled me. Perhaps it felt offensive because I had never known a man worthy of such trust. Early on, we spoke about what I desired in a man. I told Josh I wanted someone like Jesus. I still remember his expression when he asked, “Jesus? How’s that possible?” To me, submitting to Jesus is easy. I love Him. I trust Him. I run to Him when I'm afraid/uncertain/weary. If I am to submit, I imagine following a man who reflects the heart of Christ would feel much the same. Over the years, our pursuit of God brought healing, growth, and a deeper closeness to both Christ and one another. Josh’s strength is found in his gentleness. He loves w/ patience, leads w/ humility, and has always honored both me & my faith with deep respect & grace. I find peace in his presence when I’m afraid, seek his wisdom when I feel uncertain, and serve him even when it requires sacrifice, not out of obligation, but out of love. A love that doesn’t feel like it comes from me, but rather like something God placed into my heart to give away freely. If this is submission, then I've come to believe it's a beautiful thing. Not diminishing, but safe. Not oppressive, but sacred. And he's worthy of it. Josh loves the Lord, and I trust him deeply. I look forward to becoming his wife, as together we'll build a marriage where Christ isn't simply welcomed, but truly at home.
Jennifer Mina Ouellette
My Bride
Jennifer is a towering beacon of steadfast faith, love, and loyalty; the essence of femininity. Her very presence carries a blissful wind and saturates the air around her with life. Her love is fierce, unwavering, and unconditional. Her love can only be described as agape, righteous in the eyes of the Lord, forever uplifting and honoring. She carries herself with dignity, sincerity, and an authenticity that ensures those around her feel not only seen, but loved. She’s a living testament to what it means to choose faith over fear, perseverance over defeat, and love over bitterness. Truly, she is the strongest and most beautiful woman I’ve ever known. Her love for the Lord is a raging fire. And that is what I admire most about her. She is fearfully and wonderfully made in all of her ways. By God’s love and grace were we brought together, through which I hold the sacred honor of loving her, choosing her, and soon calling her my wife.