Duggar news: Josiah Duggar and Lauren Swanson announce courtship

Screenshot of Josiah Duggar from a "Counting On" short videoYouTube/ TLC

"Counting On" star Josiah Duggar is currently courting Lauren Swanson. Does it mean there will be another Duggar wedding soon?

The 21-year-old star exclusively revealed to People that he is courting 18-year-old Lauren. She is the eldest of the eight Lauren children. The Duggars and the Swansons have been friends for years. In fact, the family also made an appearance in an episode of their canceled show, "19 Kids and Counting." 

Recently, the new couple had a trip to Australia and New Zealand with the Duggar family to attend the Institute in Basic Life Principles conferences. This is one indication that Lauren is already close the the family.

The announcement said that the Duggars are overjoyed that the two will begin a new phase in their lives together. They added their families got close to each other as friends. Because of that, they are confident that both of them have found a great friend in each other.

The Duggars also said that they appreciate the Christlike character of Lauren, adding that Lauren has a tender heart toward others. They said that Lauren helps those who are sad and lonely by brightening up their day. She also shares words of hope, prayers, and encouraging scriptures to other people.

"It's truly an exciting time for us, as we take this big step in establishing a relationship, getting to know one another even better and praying together toward our future. We are thankful to God and our families for the love and support we've received in starting this new chapter of life and look forward to sharing it with others as the future unfolds," the Duggars told People.

Back in 2016, Josiah courted Marjorie Jackson and the couple had a 4-month-long relationship. When the two separated, Josiah said that Marjorie felt that it was not the right timing and they just followed God's lead into everything.