A Journey of Faith, Patience, and God’s Perfect Timing
Sometimes God brings two people together at exactly the right moment. Not only to build a life together, but to draw them both closer to Him. That was certainly true for Caleb and Amanda, whose journey began in June 2019 in the Dominican Republic.
Amanda had traveled there to teach English through a nonprofit organization. Caleb, a lifelong Seventh-day Adventist from the Dominican Republic, was serving as one of the group’s leaders. Although they came from different countries and different faith backgrounds—Amanda was raised Roman Catholic—they formed an immediate connection. What started as a conversation quickly grew into a meaningful relationship that continued after Amanda returned home.
As their relationship deepened, Caleb began dental school while the two maintained a long-distance relationship. Amanda was able to visit him several times, and eventually they married and welcomed their first daughter. But their greatest challenge was still ahead of them.
Amanda and their daughter were living in Traverse City, Michigan, while Caleb remained in the Dominican Republic. The couple began the lengthy immigration process, hoping they could finally build their life together under one roof. The wait lasted two years.
For any family, two years apart feels like an eternity. Yet, looking back, they can clearly see God’s hand at work. During that time, Caleb was able to complete dental school, graduating in November 2023. Just one month later, in December 2023, his residency was approved, allowing him to move to the United States and reunite with his wife and daughter. What once felt like an impossible wait became a beautiful reminder that God’s timing is always better than our own.
Throughout their relationship, Caleb lovingly shared his faith with Amanda. Curious to learn more, she began studying the Bible for herself and regularly watched Doug Batchelor through Amazing Facts. Her growing interest in Scripture was not without challenges. Because she was stepping away from the religious traditions in which she had been raised, Amanda experienced opposition from some family members. Even so, she continued seeking God with an open heart.
After welcoming their second child, Caleb and Amanda decided to study the Bible together with Pastor Ben. Every Sunday morning, they met over Zoom, faithfully working through each lesson. With the demands of raising two young children, the studies took about a year to complete, but they remained committed to growing in their understanding of God’s Word. During that same time, they also became actively involved in the Young Adult ministry at their church, where they found encouragement, fellowship, and spiritual support.
Then came a day they will never forget.
On February 7, 2026, Amanda publicly gave her life to Christ through baptism, and Caleb chose to be rebaptized alongside her as a recommitment of his own faith. Together, they celebrated not only the beginning of a new chapter in their marriage and family, but also a shared commitment to following Jesus.
Their story is a testimony that God faithfully guides every step of our journey. Through distance, waiting, family challenges, and seasons of uncertainty, He was leading them all along. Today, Caleb and Amanda continue walking together in faith, grateful for the path God has written and excited for what He has in store for their family.
Pastor Ben Garcia
Traverse City Seventh-day Adventist Church
