A Special Bond That Feels Like Family
As I stood at the wedding our our dear friend, Chivis, in Cuernavaca, Mexico, I was overwhelmed by a mix of joy and nostalgia. Seeing a photo of our late daughter Hannah among those honored at the ceremony was a poignant reminder of the deep bonds we’ve formed over the years. Our family has known Chivis since she was two, and she lived with us for six months when she was 15, creating a lifelong connection that feels like family. This trip was not just a celebration of Chivis and Raúl’s union but also a homecoming for our son Jonathan, who returned to Mexico City for the first time in 25 years. The weekend was filled with laughter, tears, and moments of spiritual connection that reminded us of the enduring power of love and faith.
Dawn, Jonathan, and I just returned from this wonderful trip to Mexico, where we had the joy of attending Chivis and Raúl’s wedding on March 1st. Chivis is like a daughter to us and a sister to our children — David, Jonathan, and Hannah. One of the most touching moments during the wedding was seeing a table set up in memory of loved ones, with Hannah’s photo among those honored. The sign read “En Memoria de aquellos que Viven por Siempre en Nuestros Corazones” (In memory of those that live always in our hearts), beautifully reminding us of how our families have walked through life together.
Remembering Hannah, “En Memoria de aquellos que Viven por Siempre en Nuestros Corazones” (In memory of those that live always in our hearts)
The Lord’s Reminder: The Wedding at Cana
The wedding day was filled with joy and celebration as Chivis and Raúl exchanged vows surrounded by family and friends. During the celebration I couldn’t help but think of the wedding at Cana, where Jesus performed His first miracle, turning water into wine. It was clear that Chivis desired a Christ-centered wedding — she personally chose the Scripture readings and worship songs. What made the ceremony even more powerful was knowing over half of the guests didn’t have a personal relationship with Christ. Yet, we could sense the Holy Spirit moving and ministering to their hearts throughout the ceremony. It was a beautiful opportunity for the Gospel to touch many lives.
In Mexico, weddings often turn into three-day celebrations, and this was no different. On Friday, there was a pre-wedding gathering, followed by the wedding and reception on Saturday (which lasted until 3 a.m.!). Then came the Torna Boda, a post-wedding celebration on Sunday. While it was a bit tiring, it was also a beautiful opportunity for us to connect with family and friends and to minister to them.
Throughout the weekend, the Lord opened several doors for us to pray with people and share about the hope of Christ. One of the most memorable moments was when we gathered to pray for entire families. One of Silvia’s cousins even prayed to receive Christ and reaffirmed their faith — such a precious moment of God’s grace at work.
A Homecoming for Jonathan
Having our son Jonathan join us on this trip was especially meaningful. It was his first time back in Mexico City since we moved away 25 years ago. He shared with us how he cried when we had to leave Mexico as a young boy because he loved living there. Returning after all these years to celebrate with Chivis was very special for him. Even though his Spanish is a bit rusty, he quickly connected with everyone and even prayed for and ministered to others. Watching him engage with the people was such a joy.
All weekend, I kept sensing the Lord reminding me of the wedding at Cana — how Jesus showed up, brought joy, and ministered to those around Him. In the same way, we were grateful to be part of this celebration and witness how God used it to open hearts. It was also a sweet reminder of the lifelong friendships and deep ministry roots we have in Mexico.
A Special Bond That Feels Like Family
When we got home, Dawn was overcome with emotion — not from sadness but from overwhelming joy. She realized just how much she had missed our friends and how special it was to reconnect with them. We are incredibly thankful for the years we spent ministering in Mexico, and it’s beautiful to see how God continues to use those relationships to open doors for the Gospel.
Thank you for standing with us in prayer and support. Moments like these remind us of how God weaves our stories and relationships together for His glory.
In His Grip, Dave & Dawn Diaso
P.S. Your partnership is making an eternal impact—one life, one family, and one church at a time.
