Fox Nation launched the two‑episode premiere of Chris Harrison’s The Vow this week, bringing a faith‑centered dating format to the Texas Hill Country. The series follows 30‑year‑old mortgage loan officer Jace Cates from Oregon as he meets ten women who share his desire for marriage grounded in Christianity and traditional family values.
Faith‑first approach to courtship
Host Chris Harrison, known for his work on The Bachelor, explained that the show eliminates roses, elimination ceremonies, and other gimmicks to focus on “real life” and meaningful connections. He said modern dating has become dominated by swiping and hookups, leaving little room for lasting love.
Before arriving at the property, Cates opened up about a previous engagement that ended, describing it as his “lowest point.” He credited his faith with helping him heal and clarify what he seeks in a future wife.
Contestants discuss traditional marriage
The ten women quickly turned the conversation to traditional marriage, motherhood, and the role of a wife. Alexis Wyborny pushed back against the stereotype that a “trad wife” must stay home all day, describing herself as an independent earner. Kierstin Zankl expressed interest in eventually becoming a stay‑at‑home mother, while Sierra Wood shared her decision to remain a virgin until marriage.
Mya Draper voiced a clear goal: “I would love to just be a mom and be a wife and do my husband for a living and have a big family.” The women also participated in a group prayer led by Cates, underscoring the series’ emphasis on shared faith.
Challenges and early eliminations
During the first night, the contestants helped Cates prepare the property, setting up furniture, cooking, and arranging the outdoor space. The collaborative effort led to several promising connections, including a discovery that Cates and Sierra Wood attend the same church and live about 20 minutes apart in Oregon.
However, the episode took a turn when Cates pulled Kierstin aside and sent her home, leaving nine women still in the competition.
One‑on‑one date and family focus
In the second episode, titled “Beauty is Fleeting,” Cates selected Mya for a horseback‑riding date through the Texas countryside. The pair discussed Cates’ broken prior engagement and Mya’s loss of her father in a car accident two years earlier. After sharing a kiss, Mya said, “I haven’t allowed myself to fall for someone in so long, but I’m definitely falling for Jace.” The episode also featured a group basketball outing with children, highlighting Cates’ desire to build a family.
Later, Cates chose Marley Alexander for a dinner overlooking Austin, sparking tension when other contestants felt overlooked. Marley, who has been single for seven years, expressed a desire to travel and stay close to family before having children, while Cates emphasized his readiness to settle down. Their timelines proved incompatible, and Careson sent Marley home, citing “God’s timing.”
Continuing the search for a wife
With Kierstin and Marley eliminated, eight women remain as Cates continues his search for a wife who shares his Christian faith and commitment to traditional family life. New episodes of The Vow will air every Wednesday on Fox Nation.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
