Please watch this video we have about the crowning ceremony as understood within the Coptic Church. This is the joining of two individuals, into one person, becoming a Trinity of a man, woman, and God. This marriage is something sanctified by the Holy Mystery of the crowning ceremony.
Our story began at church, where we first crossed paths. Matt remembered meeting Lena, but he had forgotten her name. After calling her by the wrong name multiple times, Lena made sure to leave an impression and, with a smile, said, “Hi, I feel like I need to reintroduce myself. I’m Lena." At the time, Lena had just returned from training in Georgia and was about to move again for another six months. Determined not to jeopardize her career, or potentially her heart, she avoided showing interest, and Matt refrained from texting her impulsively. They got to know each other through group hangouts, thanks to their friends who ensured they spent time together. During one encounter at a friend’s house, Lena shared stories about her job, including the time she cried after taking her first shot at the shooting range at work. In his usual playful manner, Matt later gifted her a placard that read, “Notice: Employees Must Stop Crying Before Returning to Work” as a housewarming gift. Lena eventually invited Matt to her Thanksgiving party. Curious about her, Matt did some detective work and learned from a friend that she wanted to dedicate her life to service, which was exactly what Matt wanted to hear. With the help of their friends, they had several coordinated hangouts where they got to know each other better. They had their first date in Baltimore shortly thereafter. Their first few dates were filled with endless conversation, enjoyment, and so much laughter that they forgot to take any pictures together. From then on, their love for each other grew stronger every day. They became best friends, supporting and cherishing one another every step of the way. Now, they are excited to spend the rest of their lives together in marriage, continuing to grow in their love and friendship.