19 Kids And Counting’s Jessa Duggar Has Big News!

After a courtship that lasted 11 months, Jessa Duggar, 21, is officially engaged to Ben Seewald, 19.

The two lovebirds met in church, and asked permission to begin texting and calling each other — mostly to discuss scripture and question each other about theology. They then moved on to an official courtship, but, like big brother Josh Duggar and his wife Anna, both Jessa and Ben have agreed to leave physical intimacy, even simple kissing, for their wedding day.

According to mom Michelle Duggar, “Dad [Jim Bob Duggar] allowed them [Jessa and Ben] to do a side hug when they were officially courting. Jessa and Ben have said that was the only contact they would have, when they initially greet each other, when he comes to visit for their first hello, they have a quick 30 second or less side hug and a goodbye side hug and they agreed that would be the only contact they should have.”

So what, exactly, is the difference between a courtship and regular dating?

Dad Jim Bob Duggar claims, “Courting is getting to know each other in a group setting, both families spending time together and the couple setting goals together to determine if they are meant to marry. With dating, a couple will often pair off alone and that sometimes leads to a more physical relationship.”

Michelle added, “Courtship is not just about having fun. You are really considering if this person could be your life partner — you pray about it and see what happens.”

Apparently, Ben Seewald was not the first to ask permission of Jim Bob Duggar to court Jessa, but he was the first to be granted permission. And it looks like Mom and Dad must have known what they were doing, as the two are obviously in love. Just a few days ago, Ben gifted Jessa with a beautiful pearl bracelet for their 11-month anniversary, writing a note that read:

“My Dearest Jessa Lauren,

These elegant pearls looked quite majestic when I picked them out. However, they were a bit lonely… what good are such beautiful pearls if not to have the grace of being worn by one so elegant and majestic as yourself? These pearls were lonely… just like I am when we’re apart; but not anymore! I love you my precious princess!

Your Man,

Ben”

Jessa also recently changed her Twitter handle to Jessa Seewald, prompting many fans to wonder if she had already secretly married Ben… but Thursday’s wedding announcement cleared up any mystery. The two are definitely engaged and will now be in the process of planning a wedding. And, like Jim Bob and Michelle, Jessa and Ben are committed to having as “many children as God sees fit” to give them. Ben Seewald is one of seven children, and Jessa Duggar is the fifth of (of course) 19… and counting.

[Image via The Original Duggar Family Blog]