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

When Rachel's son Joseph shared the news of expecting a second child, it brought joy to their family after the recent loss of his father. However, two weeks later, they faced an unexpected sorrow. Joseph and his mother found themselves in a hospital, praying as Maridel underwent surgery for an ectopic pregnancy.

The surgeon informed them that Maridel was recovering well but mentioned that the baby's remains would not be returned from the lab. This response troubled them deeply. With help from a friend, Mary, who contacted her daughter with professional connections to the lab, they managed to retrieve their child's remains.

Naming their child Gianna Rose, Joseph and Maridel placed her remains in an urn on their home altar before deciding to bury it at a cemetery. The burial took place two months after the miscarriage next to Joseph's father’s grave.

Joseph expressed how painful it was to bury his daughter but acknowledged it allowed him and Maridel to grieve together. The family felt it was right to honor Gianna through burial, echoing teachings that regard such acts as works of mercy.

Sondra Jonson reflects on these experiences through her sculpture "Rachel Weeping for Her Children," inspired by Jeremiah's lamentations and involved in pro-life advocacy. She ponders why Rachel continues to weep alongside parents and children suffering worldwide.

A memorial Mass is scheduled for December 28 at the John XXIII Diocesan Center in Lincoln for those who have lost a child through various tragedies. The event invites all affected individuals to join in remembrance.