Shared Values

On Tuesday, December 31, 2024, Reverend Heather Mustain and I co-officiated Hannah and Chase’s wedding ceremony at the Las Colinas Country Club in Irving, Texas. Here are the remarks I shared with them and their guests:

How this relationship came to be is almost out of a rom com, which if you think about it is very apt for a New Year’s Eve wedding, New Year’s being all about new beginnings. 

Hannah and Chase were set up by Chase's cousin, Amber Leigh, who is Cash's mom. As Chase was moving back to Dallas, Amber Leigh thought he needed a girlfriend and had the perfect match in mind: Hannah. They hit it off over the phone, talking for weeks with effortless, long conversations, eagerly awaiting the chance to meet in person.

Hannah says, “I remember picking Chase up from the airport on our first date and being so nervous. The moment I saw him, I thought he was such a cutie. I loved that our outfits matched! It felt like we were already in sync!”

Chase says, “When I walked out of security, I saw the most joyful, and beautiful girl who ran up to me and gave me the biggest hug. I knew this was going somewhere… it didn't take me long to figure it out.”

What Hannah and Chase really teach us, though, is what matters spiritually in a relationship. Shared values are paramount.

Chase says, “I believe how people live and treat others is more important than the specific religion they follow. I value personal responsibility, integrity, and how one impacts the world around them. I align with the idea that morality, kindness, and purpose are universal values that transcend religious labels. Both in this life and after, is shaped by the character we build through daily actions.”

Hannah agrees: “My spiritual journey has been a tapestry of exploration and self-discovery. Growing up in a household that valued both tradition and open-mindedness, I was encouraged to ask questions and seek my own understanding of faith…

Respecting others and striving to be good people are core beliefs that we both hold dear. We believe in treating others with kindness and respect, and this shared value has created a harmonious and loving environment in our relationship.” 

Thank you, Hannah and Chase, for inspiring us not only in the wonderful way you met and began your relationship, but more importantly in how you live your lives, as individuals and as a couple.