It was my first time to visit SOCO Church. I knew absolutely no one except my sister, Cailey, who had been attending SOCO for a few months. Cailey had to serve during the service, so I had no one to sit with. Cailey walked up to a random guy named Pavel and said, "Hey, my sister's new here. Can she sit with you?" I awkwardly sat down next to this super handsome guy. Throughout the service, we tried to make small talk, but I kept getting the vibe that he didn't want to talk to me, yet alone sit with me. - Bethany There I was sitting in the back row at church, alone, until the most beautiful girl I've ever seen sat down by me. The whole time, I was trying to think of something to say to start a conversation. Not knowing what to say, or if she would even want to talk to me, I asked a few questions and then awkwardly sat quietly for the rest of the service. I knew nothing about her, where she was from, or what her story was, but I knew right away that I absolutely wanted to know her more. - Pavel Turns out that from day one, we both had a desire to know each other more, but we both thought that the other would never be interested. So for a couple of months, we were secretly swooning over one another. Our friend group frequently hung out, giving us opportunities to talk and get to know each other more. However, despite our growing feelings, neither of us pursued anything more than friendship. Coincidentally, we were both praying and fasting individually about the opportunity to pursue the other. I (Bethany) remember specifically praying and thanking Jesus for showing me that men like Pavel even existed. Even if we didn't end up together, I was thankful for the hope that his life inspired within me. I (Pavel) remember fasting and praying for weeks whether or not this was from God and if I had His yes to pursue Beth's heart. In the way that only God can, things naturally fell into place for the most beautiful, sweet, and God-filled journey to begin. - Pavel & Bethany