Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

On a December day several years ago, a family gathered at a small church outside David City for a baptism. Although the child baptized that day would not remember the event, it marked the beginning of a journey in faith influenced by family and tradition.

Faith was not always central to this family's life. Mass attendance was irregular, and prayers were learned mostly through CCD classes. Despite this, one member of the family took on roles within the church community, stepping in where help was needed.

The narrative reveals discrepancies between personal experiences with faith and expectations from parental figures. As time passed, these gaps became apparent, leading to moments where the child felt more connected to faith than their mother did.

In her final year, health struggles led to unexpected spiritual developments for the mother. A trip together revealed she had begun spiritual direction and confession became regular practices. This newfound commitment came as a surprise.

Two months after this revelation, she passed away on Mother’s Day. Her death intensified reflections on faith's role in their lives and sparked deeper engagement with religious practice.

The story illustrates how catechesis—defined as an "echoing down" of faith—requires an initial sound to resonate through generations. The parents' decision to baptize their child initiated such an echo.

Following her mother's passing, travel plans led to spiritual encounters abroad that helped process grief. Visits to religious sites fostered devotion and provided comfort during difficult times.

Over time, while grief subsided somewhat, connections with maternal figures in faith grew stronger. The presence of Marian statues offered solace and guidance during challenging days.

Despite ongoing pain from loss, gratitude remains for the influence of maternal echoes that shaped personal beliefs and sustained them through hardships—a path unchosen but appreciated for its beauty nonetheless.