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

Members of the Lincoln Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (LDCCW) are reflecting on their roles within the organization as autumn brings a change in season and focus. The council, which is part of the Diocese of Lincoln, continues its work during October, recognized as the month of the Holy Rosary, while preparing for upcoming church observances such as All Saints and All Souls Day.

The current president of LDCCW describes her personal prayer routine, noting how early mornings in Juniata provide a peaceful setting to pray the rosary: "The rosary continues to be my favorite prayer. I try to journey outside to my deck, bundled with a fuzzy robe, lap blanket, coffee and rosary. This early morning rosary is wonderful. In my small town of Juniata, I often pray with the multitude of sounds. The roosters and chickens are busy. I often pray with St. Peter in my meditation. The doves help me think of our Blessed Mother, and in the morning breeze I meditate on the Holy Spirit."

She compares the organization’s structure to an orchestra: "The Lincoln Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, like other diocesan councils, is unique, made up of many moving parts and individuals, each with her own role. We are all a part of the great orchestra of nature. We might not sound cohesive at first—there can be some irritating squawking!—but when put together, the music is beautiful."

Mentorship plays an important role within LDCCW leadership development. "The women of the council are always happy to mentor," she says. She recalls being guided by Marilyn Maney over meeting protocol issues more than 25 years ago: "Marilyn mentored me in such a loving way that I was able to gain confidence and begin to accept a stronger role as a leader." The tradition continues today.

The president’s theme for this term is drawn from John 15:16: “You did not choose me but I chose you…” She emphasizes how each member brings unique talents that benefit council activities: "I am amazed and in awe as to how God chooses people for a particular role in our council."

LDCCW operates through three main commissions—Spirituality, Service, and Leadership—each focusing on specific needs within the Church community. The Spirituality Commission centers on prayer efforts for priests throughout the year.

A key project under the Service Commission is an annual diaper drive held every October—a tradition now lasting ten years—which has expanded beyond Lincoln into other dioceses across Nebraska. According to Kay Wessel, who chairs this effort, over one million diapers have been collected since its inception.

The Leadership Commission focuses on mentoring women for leadership roles within both church and community settings.

Members recently completed a study on virtuous friendship based on “Foundations for Discipleship” by Edward Sri and Curtis Martin. The group reflected on different types of friendships and highlighted those centered around faith as essential for spiritual growth.

All members emphasize that prayer remains central to their mission: "All women involved in the LDCCW come because of the beautiful sisterhood we share. Prayer is the center of who we are in our work for the Church." They view their service not just as Sunday worship but as daily expressions of faith.

Women involved describe themselves as both “Marys and Marthas” referencing biblical figures known for contemplation and service respectively: "As women, we have a need to 'do.' It is in our DNA to be serving... But it is also very important we spend time sitting at the feet of Jesus and being with him."

In closing remarks addressed to current members or those considering involvement with LDCCW’s Spirituality, Service or Leadership commissions she asks them to consider where they find themselves most drawn in daily life.