In 2020, Ryleigh and Irving met online. They spent a lot of time sharing in the things they enjoy. Some of their earliest memories together include watching shows together virtually through Zoom, playing multiplayer games online together, and showcasing to each other what they were up to (Irving’s school and music projects and Ryleigh’s affinity for cooking, gardening, and her animals). Their first time meeting in person was in November of 2022 where they spent 3 days together. Later during winter break, they spent 3 weeks together. Then, during summer break, it was 3 months together. After just over a year of having to travel by plane to see each other, Irving packed his life’s belongings into his mid-size sedan and made the 2000 mile drive from California to Florida, accompanied by his brother. January 11th of 2024 marks one year since they haven’t been apart. Their wedding date: May 28th is held on the same day as their first date as a couple.

In 2023, not long after exchanging promise rings, Ryleigh and Irving decided they wanted to be married in the Roman Catholic Church. Ryleigh, being raised Southern Baptist, wanted to try to learn everything about the Catholic Church: Her beliefs, teachings, and what it meant to be Catholic. Ryleigh began OCIA instruction under the Deacon at the local parish, along with her little brother. She felt the Holy Spirit guiding her deeper into the life of the Church and into a deeper relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. As she learned more about Catholicism with each OCIA class and began sharing everything she was learning with Irving, she inspired him to learn more about the faith he was born into. Although they were apart during the first half of her OCIA instruction, they were committed to practicing more faithfully and making God the center of their relationship. After Irving moved to Florida to be with her, they officially got engaged on February 28th, 2024. They spent the first month of their engagement attending the remainder of the OCIA classes together, preparing for her baptism. On March 30th, 2024 at the Easter Vigil, Irving joined in presenting Ryleigh and her brother to the parish as catechumens, alongside their Godmother. They were both baptized, confirmed and received their First Holy Communion that night. Since then, their love for each other, for God, and for His Church has been their foundation. They now look forward to fulfilling the purpose of their vocation: leading each other to heaven!