Lisa, Robert, and Corbyn.  What is written here is beautiful, compassionate, and honest. I feel I know Ayden and your family even better now.  Thank you. 

Love to you all.  Beth Churchill

I was extremely fortunate enough to be a part of Ayden’s life for a while as a pastor and friend. Ayden lived for the laugh. If he figured out what would make you laugh, he’d keep flexing that muscle and pulling your string. He knew how to make me laugh and never skipped the chance to make a silly joke to me and his brother Corbyn. I knew if we were spending time together, we were laughing and all competing for who could make the best jokes.

Ayden loved to help set up for our Youth Nights, know every detail of what was going on, and ask me plenty of questions. He was inquisitive and determined for answers. His persistence is something I always enjoyed and it made him determined to be there early everything week for Youth. I enjoyed those times with him and his brother.

I was always happy when he shot me a text asking if I wanted to play Fortnite. Realistically, I bought the game and system to play with him, his brother, and friends. We shared a lot of laughs and fun playing a silly video game.

From the moment I got to know Ayden, I knew something was different. He seemed to live life with a chip on his shoulder - wanting to prove himself in some way and feeling a bit like an outcast at times. I remember many conversations we had together that revolved around processing feelings of not being accepted and approved of. It’s something we all feel and have felt, and something Ayden certainly struggled with at an early age. His deep desire to be loved was evident every time he said “love you, bro.” I never doubted he meant it, because I knew showing love and being loved meant a lot to him. Because of those deep and lofty emotions Ayden was processing, it’s my opinion that Ayden was often misunderstood. Carving himself a path in the world, he marched to the beat of his own drum, and people sometimes didn’t know how to take that. Ayden taught me that everyone is deserving of love and every bit of acceptance and availability you can offer. If you misunderstand someone, keep pushing and fighting through the hurdles until you know them and their heart. Choose to see the gold - the best. I always wished I could know Ayden and his heart better, and I’ll continue to live with that desire.

I saw the gold in Ayden. I think many did. He had so many friends that loved him. I always prayed that Ayden saw himself the way we saw him. How Jesus saw him. Precious and loved. Accepted and approved of.

My heart is broken knowing he may have left earth with some of those questions, but I’m at peace knowing he’s with Jesus and completely whole and mended. Understood and healed.

I love you, Ayden. I’ll always pray that I could have done more to show you how much Jesus loved you. I’m hopeful to see you again someday and can’t wait to laugh together again in the presence of our Savior.