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This article was originally published on 1 August 2023
Western Sydney school teachers Isabella Plust and Andrew Valenti have become engaged in Paris during the Diocese of Parramatta pilgrimage to World Youth Day. At the Eiffel Tower in front of 170 pilgrims and passing Parisians, Andrew proposed to Isabella underneath the sparkling lights of the city of love’s most iconic landmark.
The long-time best friends are also teachers at St John Paul II Catholic College Schofields and Nirimba Fields and joined the pilgrimage to grow in faith, their love for God and each other.
“I’ve tried to hide this ring from her for six months now. I’ve had to keep it safe on the plane and the whole journey here while keeping it from her,” said Andrew. “It’s been crazy stressful but at the end of the day it’s been all worth it.”
Isabella was surprised but overjoyed when Andrew popped the question and was delighted to accept and say yes!
“I’m still in shock because we came on this pilgrimage together to deepen our faith and I had no idea he had planned this as well,” said Isabella. “Not only have we grown spiritually in our relationship and our love for each other but in our love for God.”
The Parisian proposal at the Eiffel Tower was particularly meaningful for Isabella.
“I’ve always dreamed of going to Paris, I’ve dreamed of it since I was a little girl. I’ve always had this little Eiffel Tower in my room, this little statue that I’ve kept most of my life and I’ve always said to myself I would love to go to Paris one day and I’ve managed to do that,” said Isabella.
“To not only go to Paris but be engaged to the person I love. It’s been honestly incredible and I just can’t wait to start this new journey and chapter together. It’s been amazing.”
The pair are looking forward to completing their pilgrimage and beginning a new journey together as husband and wife.
“We are both so excited for this next chapter in our lives and are blessed by God to be sharing and growing in our faith on this World Youth Day pilgrimage,” said Andrew and Isabella.
