by Seneca Moraleda-Puguan
In a world often clouded by hardship and despair, stories of love, hope, and redemption shine like beacons of hope—reminding us that even in darkness, light prevails.
A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of joining an online bridal shower for a dear friend and mentor, Ate Razzel Remiendo.
We spent a lot of time in Baguio during my high school years and even after college before life took us in different directions—me to South Korea and her to the United States.
Who would have thought that she would find love in her 50s? When she shared the news of her engagement, my heart overflowed with joy.
Sharing with you their incredible love story from their own point of view.
From Her: A Journey Of Trust And Surrender
David and I first became good friends in December of 2023 when he helped me with a major project called His Toy Store. He was my tech support, assisting with planning, execution, and follow-up. At the time, he was also working part-time as a stage technician at our church, and our collaboration naturally strengthened our friendship.
As we continued serving together, I began to hear more about David’s heart for compassion ministry. His passion deeply resonated with me, and I invited him to join the core team of our Outreach Ministry, where I served as the team lead.
Around April, David boldly expressed his intention to pursue me for marriage. I admired his courage and honesty, but I turned him down. I valued our friendship, but I simply didn’t see him in a romantic light.
Yet, earlier that year, something had begun stirring in my heart. The Holy Spirit prompted me to pray and fast for marriage—a dream I thought I had long surrendered. I had convinced myself I was content being single, and during our 2023 corporate fasting, I didn’t even include marriage in my prayers. But God reminded me of a prophecy I received in college: “You and your family will serve the Lord.” Decades had passed, and I had almost lost hope. But during this time of prayer, I asked God for a lifetime ministry partner—someone to lead, walk alongside me, and share His heart for the city.
When David shared his feelings, I didn’t immediately recognize that God was answering my prayer.
By June, the intensity of David’s feelings became overwhelming, especially as they surfaced during ministry moments. I remember telling him, “I cannot do this now,” essentially asking him to take a step back. Feeling burdened by personal and ministry responsibilities, I confided in a pastor, who ultimately decided to transition David out of our shared ministries to give us both space.
During this separation, I focused on healing from past wounds and supporting my family through a difficult time. I appreciated the space, yet I began to notice how much I missed my interactions with David. I found myself talking about him more to my family and mentor. Looking back, I was missing him more than I realized.
In September, as we prepared for another cycle of our ESL classes, I reached out to David for tech support. Though hesitant, he agreed to help. This time, I noticed something different—he was calmer, steadier. Our interactions felt more natural, and I felt safe and at ease with him.
Personally, I was battling an overwhelming sense of discontent. I prayed daily for clarity. I even dared to dream big—praying for a move to New York in 2025, picturing life in a Manhattan apartment. Though I had no idea how it would happen, I trusted God with my desires.
By late 2024, David and I began spending more time together outside of ministry. He planned thoughtful outings, including a trip to Seven Lakes where he went out of his way to ensure my mom’s comfort. His kindness and care slowly broke down the walls around my heart.
Still, I hesitated. One night, after pouring my heart out in prayer, I woke up with an unexplainable peace. When I shared my uncertainties with my mom, she gently reminded me:
“It’s about time you think of your own happiness. Don’t wait anymore. David really cares for you. Don’t let him go.”
Her words pierced my heart, and I knew—it was time to say yes. Not just to David, but to the Lord’s plan for my life.
From Him: A Lesson Of Faith And Patience
In late 2023, Razzel asked for my help with admin tasks for the His Toy Store event. I had just started working part-time at the church, and through our shared volunteer work, we quickly became good friends.
One defining moment happened during an outreach at Rikers Island. After a powerful time of ministry, we gathered in a prayer circle. As I held Razzel’s hand, I felt a deep sense of connection—something unlike anything I had ever experienced. From that moment, I began to wonder if God had a greater plan for us.
By early 2024, I realized I was falling in love with her. One day, I invited her for coffee—not for a ministry meeting, as she had assumed, but to share my heart. I told her, “I’ve never been more attracted to another human being in my life.”
She was shocked, amused, and flattered—all at once. But in the end, she said: “I can only give you friendship.” While disappointed, I was grateful she didn’t cut me off.
However, remaining just friends with someone I loved was incredibly difficult.
By mid-year, Razzel needed space, and I was asked to step back from our shared ministries. It was one of the hardest moments of my life. But instead of letting bitterness take root, I surrendered to God’s plan. One night, as I poured my heart out in prayer, He spoke to me:
“I will bring you together in My time.”
And so, I waited.
In August, Razzel began inviting me back into her life. In October, she suggested a day trip—just me, her, and her mom. I was honored. Spending time with them, I could see that she was starting to trust me in a new way.
Then, in early December, everything changed. One night, during dinner, Razzel casually asked, “David, isn’t there something you want to ask my mom?”
Caught off guard, I realized she was giving me the green light. Right then and there, I asked Mama Nena for Razzel’s hand in marriage. Her response?
“Of course! What are you waiting for?”
That night, Razzel asked for a short break from communication to seek God. I gladly honored her request. But the next day, she texted me: “I thought you were getting off work at 8… I wanted to see you.”
It was happening.
On December 8, 2024, we had our first official date. As we sat in a small café, she held my hand and said, “I love you.”
A few days later, I proposed in our future home in Washington Heights, Manhattan. It was intimate, perfect, and undeniably God-orchestrated.
On February 8, David and Ate Razzel tied the knot and exchanged their vows at the St. Paul & St. Andrew United Methodist Church in New York.
Their love story is a powerful testament that God makes everything beautiful in His time.
If you’re in a season of waiting, take heart. Trust God’s process- His plans are always good, and His timing is always perfect.
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