Alumni Testimony - David and Esther Ruhl | Christian Central Academy

David and Esther (Holmes) Ruhl

David and Esther Ruhl’s love story, which began at Christian Central Academy (CCA), has recently blossomed into a lifelong commitment. The two were married on August 8th, 2024, fulfilling a journey that began with friendship in the halls of CCA. As Esther shares, “I went to CCA from Kindergarten to 12th grade, while David came in 8th grade. Technically, that's when we met, but we weren’t really friends at that point.” It wasn’t until their senior year that their friendship deepened. “There were only about five people in this study hall, and we were the only seniors, so we naturally sat at the same table. We had this hour-long time period three times a week when it was just us,” Esther remembers. The two grew closer through these shared moments and officially began dating in March of 2020.
Following graduation, they each pursued their educational and career goals. Esther moved to Atlanta to attend Emory University, where she studied Psychology and Dance and Movement Studies. Reflecting on her college experience, she says, “Going to CCA for 13 years really solidified my faith in Christ and prepared me to go to a secular college. Although I was surrounded by the sins of the world, the foundation I had built at CCA stood strong, as well as my relationship with David.” She completed her degree early in December 2023, started working at Excelsior Orthopaedics, and now teaches dance while pursuing her master’s in Occupational Therapy at D’Youville University.
David, meanwhile, stayed local, studying Automotive Technology at Erie Community College. He began working part-time at Keller Chevrolet and quickly advanced from a lube tech to a B Tech. “David is continually working on his certification to become a Master Technician in General Motors,” Esther shares proudly. The couple’s long-distance relationship, which spanned over 3.5 years, brought challenges, but they made the most of their time apart. “Our relationship grew during that time because we learned how to communicate and still have fun over the phone,” Esther reflects. “The excitement of seeing each other again was always so grand, and we learned not to take for granted the time we get to spend together.”

Their shared faith, cultivated at CCA, has been a strong foundation in their relationship. “CCA is really what brought us together. Without it, we would have never known each other or interacted. It was also encouraging because we could talk about Christ openly in our relationship without fear since it was such a common topic,” Esther says. Even miles apart, they nurtured their connection spiritually. “We would pray together and complete devotionals together, as God connected us through Him,” she explains.
Both David and Esther credit several teachers with having a lasting impact, especially Mrs. Conchafter and Mr. Mariglia. “They truly cared about each one of their students and shined the light of Christ,” says Esther. Recently, the couple ran into Mr. Mariglia at a marriage conference and were deeply moved by his enthusiastic welcome. “He came running up to us with big open arms. He has such a strong and bold heart for the Lord, and we are very grateful for his spirit and energy,” she shares.
At CCA, we love seeing strong relationships form and blossom over the years, as David and Esther’s story so beautifully illustrates. Reflecting on the role CCA played in their journey, Esther says, “We are very grateful for our Christ-centered education that prepared us for ways to combat the temptations of this world and show the loving character of Christ to all those we meet.” The foundation laid during their time at CCA remains a steady presence in their lives. As Esther affirms, “Although we are not always perfect at this, our goal does not waver, as this was Jesus’ last command to each of His followers.”