The ten minute flight back to their home is spent in conversation about Spock's spiritual encounter. But once they arrive, he withdraws to a private area and meditates on the supernatural encounter that has shaken him to his core. Afterward, there is time for a simple breakfast of oatmeal and fruit.

Spock finishes eating and pulls his chair closer to T'Mara.

She studies his face as she drinks the last of her tea. "My sweet, I remember you saying that your life would change today, but I never expected this. I've never seen you so much at peace."

His lips turn upward. "Yes, T'Mara, I agree with your assessment. I thought I had achieved complete peace after encountering V'Ger, but that was fleeting. Then I found a bondmate to complete me, but your love still did not fulfill my ever-seeking soul. The seeker has now found his proper path." He reaches for her hand. "T'Mara…I am a new man. My Vulcan and human halves have truly become one."

She takes his hand and lightly squeezes it. This was an answer to the prayers she had offered ever since she first became his friend. She is radiant with love for him, and love for their Heavenly Lord.

"We should be leaving," Spock tells her, "I am sure our daughters are impatiently awaiting us."

At Andre's old Victorian home, T'Meika is the first to see them coming up the walk, so she opens the door for them. She calmly greets them as they enter. "Mother, Father, I am pleased to see you."

T'Anya happily runs up to them and exclaims, "Mommy...Daddy!"

All settle on the cushy gray sofa, and T'Anya squeezes between her mother and father.

Andre walks into the living room. "Ah, you're here. Excellent. My grandkids have been so anxious for your arrival that they've been pacing back and forth."

T'Meika huffs, then replies, "Grandfather, really, you exaggerate. Vulcans don't get anxious. I…was merely breaking in the new shoes that you gave me."

"You, my granddaughter, are beginning to sound like your father," Andre declares as he turns his head towards his son-in-law and stretches out in his favorite easy chair. He notices an unusual gleam in Spock's eyes.

"Ah, yes, then I have taught her well," Spock states with a bit of amusement in his voice.

Andre leans forward and studies Spock closely. "My son, I can't explain it, but I sense a difference in you."

"Indeed, Father. I have something to tell you and the children."

Spock is not sure how the story will be received, but he shares the tale of his encounter with God that morning and his acceptance of Jesus as his Lord and Savior. He is keenly aware that the account would seem nonsensical to a nonbeliever, but Andre was a Christian, and T'Mara had seen to the children's religious instruction.

T'Meika speaks first. "Oh, Father…God is indeed a faithful God. First He brought mother back into our lives, and now He has answered my prayers for you."

Andre's beams with delight. "This is wonderful news! From this day forward, your life will never be the same."

T'Anya's eyes shine with happiness, and she gives her father a big hug. "Oh, Daddy, I'm so glad you love Jesus, too."

T'Mara lays her hand on her stomach as she feels the baby move inside her. She cannot not help but wonder if he is feeling her joy. "I have always believed God would answer my request, but I didn't expect Him to use such incredible means." She places a sweet kiss on Spock's cheek.

"Perhaps," he muses, "God felt that a thick-headed, at times overly analytical man needed a Moses-like experience. He had to literally talk to me and prove that He not only exists, but also cares about us. Until now, I have always found a logical explanation for every situation. When I told Valeris that the universe would unfold as it should, I did not include God in that equation. Now I realize that things will come together as they should because God is in charge of His creation." But silently Spock wondered if this strong sense of belief would eventually leave him. Even at this moment, a part of him was attempting to reveal the irrationality of his newfound faith.

Andre interrupts his thoughts. "Spock, I realize everything that's happened to you is quite overwhelming, but…have you had time to consider the next step? Baptism?"

Fingering his beard, Spock looks to his wife, then back at Andre. "I will certainly consider baptism, but first I feel the need for further education in the Christian faith. I intend to consult with the pastor of our family's church."

"Good idea," Andre concurred. "I'm sure Stephen will be a great help."

T'Meika watches her father and smiles inwardly. Her eyes widen as an idea pops into her head. "Father…I made my commitment not long ago, but I have never been baptized. What if, when the time comes, we do it together?"

Spock turns his head towards her. His eyes glint as he responds, "A good suggestion, T'Meika. It would be an honor to join you."

T'Mara's eyes shimmer with joyful tears. "Not only will I get to witness my husband being baptized, but our daughter as well." She feels an abrupt movement inside her, and touches her pregnant belly. "Apparently, I'm not the only one who is happy with the turn of events."

ooooooooooooo.

Later, at home, T'Mara prepares a special Vulcan dinner. She places the food on the table, pours out two glasses of red wine, and calls her family to the table.

Spock looks at the food with appreciation. "T'Mara if this meal tastes as good as it appears, then we are in for a treat."

"I hope it is appetizing. I followed a recipe that I got from your mother right before your parents left for Zatar."

She reaches out on either side of her, and everyone holds hands as T'Mara blesses the food.

After a few hearty bites of his meal, Spock drinks some of his wine, then places the glass down. "My love, once again you have prepared an outstanding dinner."

"Thanks. I thought this special day deserved a special meal," T'Mara replies, then takes a sip of her wine.

"Speaking of my mother, I need to contact her and Father. It has been 2.35 weeks since my last conversation with them."

T'Mara sets down her fork. "Uh…when you contact your parents, are you going to tell them about your encounter with the Almighty?" Sensing his uneasiness, she adds, "I'm sorry; perhaps you should wait."

Spock tips his head to one side. "Actually, I do plan to discuss all that has happened to me – last night's accident and the supernatural encounter this morning. I had thought to just tell my mother, for she would be more accepting of my conversion, perhaps even happy. But I cannot expect her to keep such a secret from Father. So, knowing his reaction, this will be my first test. I shall contact them tomorrow, after I've had time to pray and consider my words."

When dinner is finished, everyone rises and clears off the table. After the children leave the kitchen, T'Mara quietly asks Spock, "Do you want me to be with you when you contact your parents? Not to speak to them, but as moral support?"

Spock puts a plate in the cleaning receptacle before turning to her. "Yes, I would appreciate having my bond mate with me. After dealing with my father, I will need you there."

T'Mara responds with a warm smile, and after completing the kitchen chores, they adjourn to the living room and watch an "old time movie" with their daughters.

oooooooooooo.

In the morning, after dropping off the girls at their schools, Spock and T'Mara drive to the Star Fleet campus.

"T'Mara," he informs her, "I have arranged a substitute to take over my last afternoon class. I have an appointment with Stephen at the church."

She smiles as the car stops at her building. "Good, will you pick me up here?"

"Yes, at the usual time. May your day be pleasant," he says in Vulcan.

"May yours, also," she responds back in Spock's native language, then leaves the car.

At the main campus, Spock parks in front of the quad area. He sees Jim Kirk waiting for him in the middle of the quad. He gets out of the vehicle and walks over to his former captain.

"Hello, Spock." Jim appraises his friend, for he had heard about Spock falling down the cliff. "You appear quite well, considering…"

"Yes, I am fine, Jim. I still suffer from back spasms, but the doctor gave me a patch to minimize them. My wife always makes sure I follows the doctor's orders." Spock admits with some levity.

"Yes, a good woman you have there," Jim says, smiling. Both begin walking to the Admiral Pike building where their offices are located. "Have you heard the latest scuttlebutt about you?"

Spock slowly shakes his head. "No, I have not."

"They're calling you a hero. Ever since you came back from the dead, some of these young cadets idolize you."

Spock stops just inside the building and looks at his friend. "I am no hero. I could not keep the car from slipping over the edge. If it wasn't for a providentially-placed ledge, the car's driver and I would now be dead. These naive cadets should not idolize me."

Jim grinned. "I don't mind being revered. It makes the cadets listen to my every word—they learn better." He pats Spock on his upper back. "Besides, having all those young female cadets worship the ground you walk on is not so bad, is it?"

Spock frowns as he responds. "Jim…I actually find it uncomfortable. Regardless, all that I have achieved cannot compare to the glory of the God who created the universe." He turned to walk away. "Good day, Jim."

Stunned, Jim stares at his departing friend. "Er...Good day, Spock."

Spock rides the lift to his office and sits down at his desk. He turns on his computer to ready himself for his classes. Once satisfied, he sits back and lets his mind turn to other matters. Though he is by nature a private person, he experiences a strange, disconcerting urge to let his students know about his encounter with God. Refusing to consider the thought, he heads out to the lecture hall.

All morning long, students question him about his attempt to rescue the young man, and his free-fall down the rugged hillside. He gives only the barest facts, but an uneasy feeling keeps telling him that he should reveal more…much more. It is a relief then the time comes to meet T'Mara for lunch in the officers' lounge.

Meanwhile, Jim and McCoy are sitting in a far corner of the lounge, engaging in their own interesting conversation.

After hearing that Spock had acknowledged God as the creator of the universe, "Bones" McCoy almost chokes on his coffee and sputters, "He said that?"

Jim's face shows his bewilderment. "I know...strange, isn't it? He headed for his office before I could say anything."

Bones takes a few bites of his club sandwich before replying. His brows draw together. "That does not sound a bit like our cool, analytical Spock. But his medical records were forwarded to me, and there was no sign of a head injury."

Out the corner of his eye, Jim sees Spock and T'Mara leaving the lounge. He turns his head for a better view. "This morning, he looked perfectly normal to me. Whatever's going on with him, we'll find out eventually."

McCoy watches them walk towards the exit and gets a devilish grin. "Maybe I'll catch up to him and say, 'Hey Spock, you haven't discovered a pipeline to the Almighty, have you?'"

Jim shakes his head as his eyes bore into his friend. "Bones…this time, let him be."

oooooooooooo.

It is mid-afternoon when Spock keeps his appointment with Stephen Roundtree at The Life Everlasting Church. The door to the pastor's office is open. Stephen looks up from his desk and waves Spock inside. After a brief handshake, they settle into a couple of upholstered chairs.

The pastor smiles. "Typically Vulcan—you are exactly on time." Then he thinks for a moment. "I'm sorry, that comment could be taken as a racist remark. I didn't mean it that way."

"No offense taken," Spock assured him.

Stephen nodded. "So, my friend, how are you doing…or as your wife likes to ask, 'how you doing?'"

"I am fine." Getting right to the point, he adds, "You are probably curious about my meeting with God."

Stephen leaned forward in his chair. "Yes, I'd love to hear all about it."

Spock re-experiences his sense of awe as he tells the story in great detail, disclosing the exact words God had shared with him. When he is finished, he takes in a slow, deep breath. "Stephen, it was indeed a life-changing experience. Afterward, T'Mara assisted me with a prayer accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior."

Stephen is amazed. If anyone but Spock had told him that tale, he might have considered it a case of overactive imagination. But Vulcans were not given to flights of imagination, so he can only say, "God must have wanted your attention, and He felt that was the only way to get it. You were very blessed to be singled out."

Spock lays his folded hands on his lap. "Indeed...yet I find it difficult to discuss this with others. All my cadets have seen the news reports about the rescue. They are full of questions, yet I cannot share what is really important – that I met the keeper of my soul. You must understand. I am a man who has never cared what others thought of me until now. Why, Stephen?" He tries to gain control over his confusion and regret, but does not completely succeed.

Stephen's eyes fill with compassion. He smiles at Spock and almost laughs. "I…am sorry. It's just I have been there. We are more alike than you know. T'Mara knows my conversion story. Let me give you a brief account of my shake-me-to-wake-me story. Ever since I was a child, I wanted to study metaphysics. I was attending the University at Berkeley. In the second semester of my junior year, I contracted Crieker's disease, which is usually fatal disease. As I lay in my hospital bed, past midnight, I could only move my head, because for the disease had made me a quadriplegic. I wanted to die and be done with it.

"All of a sudden, a blinding white light pierced right through the dark curtains that covered a large window. Then a deep, commanding voice began to speak. He said, 'Stephen, you will not die. I will heal you of the disease that now racks your body. I am your God, the one whom you turned your back on. Follow me and allow my Son Jesus Christ into your heart. I have great plans for you, Stephen. Now rise!'

"I did. I got out of my bed, and then fell to my knees and accepted Jesus.

"Afterward, I withdrew from Berkeley, and then attended Hope International University. I, too, found it very difficult to talk about what had happened to me, especially to my parents, because they were atheists at the time. I also felt that if I told anyone, they would think I was crazy or had experienced hallucinations caused by my disease. The doctors were no help, for they explained away the instantaneous healing by saying it was due to an experimental drug.

"My friend, don't worry, sharing these matters will comes with time, as it did for me."

Spock had listened with fascination to his every word. "Thank you, Stephen. A week ago I would not have believed you, but now it is very good to know that I am not alone in having undergone a supernatural experience. With God's help, I plan to contact my parents tonight and inform them of my conversion. It is my father who will cause difficulty. He will dissect what I tell him, then assure me that I only suffered a delusion brought on by extreme fatigue. Sarek is a staunch atheist. He looks upon belief in God as a failing."

Stephen speaks up. "May I make a suggestion?"

"You may."

"Have you read the Bible?" Stephen asks.

"Yes, and I have already begun to study it anew."

"Do you remember what Jesus said in his own defense when King Herod questioned him?"

Spock consults his memory. "He said nothing."

"Yes, and that is what I suggest you do. No matter what your father says when you tell him about your experience, give no reply. His mind is set and his heart is cold to any idea of a loving God. This won't lessen the pain of his rejection, but it may be your only recourse. Sorry, Spock. I can relate, for I have been there," Stephen finishes with all honesty.

Spock represses a sigh. "You are no doubt correct; to argue with my father would be futile. It troubles me that this situation will add to the rift between us. He was already against my choice of bond mate, and since T'Mara is Christian, he will likely blame her for leading me astray." The thought of his father's rejection weighs heavily on him. "Sarek will see this as a betrayal of my Vulcan heritage."

"How unfortunate. I see it as enhancing all that is Vulcan – after all, the Vulcans and every other race were created by God. But many people demand scientific proof that God exists. Well, over the years there have been many learned – and logical – articles that support the existence of God."

Interested, Spock tells the pastor, "I would like to read those articles." Hebrews 11:1-3 enters his mind and he quotes, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people received their commendation. By faith, we understand that the universe was created by the word of God so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible." He raises both brows.

Stephen is wide-eyed with amazement. "Spock…I didn't know you have memorized verses out of the Bible. But yes, that is the best definition of true faith."

"Many years ago, I read the Bible when I was studying the major religions of Earth," Spock explains. "And as Vulcans have eidetic memories…"

Stephen nods. "Then it sounds like you already have a good grounding in Christianity. Do you feel ready for baptism?"

A bit uneasy, Spock shifts in his chair. "I…am not certain. My daughter, T'Meika, has suggested that we make that commitment together."

"Well, take your time," Stephen advises. "Meanwhile, you are always welcome at my church. Do you plan to attend services here with your family?"

"Yes, thank you," Spock replies, and they shake hands before parting.

ooooooooooooo.

That evening Spock sits at his home computer desk and, using his security clearance, links into a subspace channel to contact his parents. They are currently on planet Zartar, on a diplomatic mission.

Standing behind him, T'Mara massages the tension from Spock's shoulders as they wait for the communication to reach the hotel where his parents are residing. She is also feeling uneasy, for Sarek will certainly be displeased when he hears Spock's declaration of faith.

Finally, the images of his father and mother appear on the screen.

"Greetings, my son and daughter," Amanda says formally in Vulcan. Her expression is filled with love, but her face is pale and there are dark circles under her eyes.

Spock notices her sickly appearance. "Mother…are you not well?" he asks, not hiding his concern.

She gives him an unconvincing smile and answers in her native English. "Oh, I'm alright. I've been battling a flu bug, that's all. The human doctor residing here informed me I should be better by the end of the week."

Sarek now speaks. "Son, we viewed the news report of the accident in which you were involved. You appear undamaged."

"Yes, Father, I am doing well. I do, however, have something which I need to tell you both."

Spock's heart races as he begins his story. He does not skip a single detail of what unfolded while he examined the rock face where the outlook should have been. As he shares the story of his Godly encounter, he sees his father's face show increasing displeasure. Sarek's expression further hardens when Spock reveals that he is now a Christian.

Then, silence.

At last Sarek speaks, his deep voice terribly restrained. "Spock. I expect you to reconsider this irrational decision at once. What you experienced was obviously the result of the injuries you sustained; this newfound 'faith' of yours is only an illusion. I have no doubt that your wife has encouraged you in this. Cease relying on her and your humanness, or you will shame our family and dishonor all of Vulcan."

He awaits Spock's rebuttal, but none is given. Inwardly torn, Spock focused on Amanda. "Mother, please inform me if there is any change in your condition. Take care of yourself."

"Son, I love you," Amanda says, then raises her hand in the Vulcan salutation.

Spock matches the gesture. "I cherish you always, Mother. Live Long and Prosper."

He turns the computer off and sinks back in his chair.

T'Mara kisses the top of his head. "I am truly sorry, my sweet, but it is what you expected from your father."

Spock looks up at her beautiful, loving face. "Yes, to be expected." He stands up and faces his wife. "T'Mara, I deeply regret what he said about you…"

She holds out her arms and they embrace, gathering strength from one another.

"T'Mara", he says tenderly, "I don't believe that Surak's philosophy of containing one's emotion meant for the Vulcan heart to be cold. We are bonded mentally, emotionally, and now spiritually, as well. The love I have for you runs deep within my soul. Remember always, no matter what my father says or does, I will never forsake you. May no man separate what God has joined together." Drawing back, he gently wipes a tear from her face.

Gazing into his eyes, T'Mara tremulously smiles. "I don't think your father's heart is totally absent of feeling. I don't think your mother would have married him if it was. But for some reason, he expects you to be more unemotional than a full-blooded Vulcan."

"I cannot change for him," Spock declares. "And I've decided to go ahead with my baptism. I am ready."

ooooooooooooooo.

The Saturday of Spock and T'Meika's baptism, the sun rises into a brilliant blue sky. The service is to take place at 1100 hours, and they have planned a picnic lunch afterwards. There is plenty of time to pack the picnic hamper, enjoy a good breakfast, and don their clothes for the special day. Spock wears a dark civilian suit and T'Mara chooses a flowing pink dress. The children dress in shades of lavender.

As they enter their skimmer, T'Mara says, "So, Spock…T'Meika, are either one of you nervous? I remember when I made my public commitment to Jesus, I sure was. But once I stepped into the cold water of the Schuylkill River, my nervousness left me."

"Nervous? I believe not," Spock comments as he pilots the skimmer into a sky lane. "I only hope that news of this event has not been leaked to the press."

"Maybe Father isn't nervous, but I have a bit of an anxious feeling," T'Meika admits.

Ten minutes later they arrive at peaceful, tree-lined Living Well Park, where many local baptisms are performed. Chairs have been arranged near the man-made pond. Stephen is already present, along with several guests. Spock is relieved to see no sign of the paparazzi. Together with T'Mara, he greets a mix of civilian and Starfleet friends.

Andre appears shortly afterward with his new friend, Dr. T'Sora. Spock raises an eyebrow at T'Mara. Both are surprised that the full-blooded Vulcan doctor agreed to come to a Christian rite.

Everyone begins to sit down. Choosing a seat, McCoy whispers to Kirk, "Spock only said that T'Meika is getting baptized. Why do I get the feeling there's more to it? Did he mention anything else to you?"

"No, he didn't." Jim Kirk turns to Uhura beside him. He knows that she is a friend of Spock's wife. "Nyota, what about it? Just T'Meika getting baptized, right?"

"Uh…yes…their eldest daughter," Uhura states rather sheepishly, for she did not want to divulge the secret that T'Mara told her.

Jim silently wonders. He is sure of one thing – Spock has not been the same since the night of the accident. Nothing dramatic, but a change nonetheless.

They all settle back and fall silent as Stephen begins the service.

"Thank you all for gathering here to participate in this proclamation of faith. There are a few words I want to say before we proceed. The people who have come here to be baptized are close to my heart. This is indeed a significant occasion, not just for their families, but for all who have come to witness it. To be baptized in Christ is an everlasting commitment, an obligation one cannot take lightly…."

As Stephen continues to speak, young T'Meika watches her father beside her. She is seated between her parents and reaches for their hands. She gives her mother's hand a squeeze to get her attention. Smiling, T'Meika nods toward her father's right knee nervously bouncing up and down. Her mother's lips turn upward.

Spock senses their attention and ceases the movement. "Perhaps…I am a little anxious, after all," he whispers to his wife and daughter.

T'Mara graces him with a warm smile. As T'Meika leans against him lovingly, he sits back and slowly exhales.

Stephen's sermon nears its conclusion. "The next words come from Paul and are not only for the people about to be baptized, but for everyone to hear. Ephesians 4:1-6. '…I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit – just as you were called to one hope when you were called – one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.'"

Stephen beckons to T'Mara. "You can come up for your solo now."

She walks to the front. A guitarist begins strumming the song, and T'Mara sings "Reckless Love" by Cory Asbury.

"There's no shadow You won't light up,
Mountain You won't climb up,
Coming after me.
There's no wall You won't kick down,
Lie You won't tear down,
Coming after me.

Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God,
Oh, it chases me down, fights 'til I'm found, leaves the ninety-nine.
I couldn't earn it, and I don't deserve it, still, You give Yourself away.
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God."

Before T'Mara finishes the song, Spock and T'Meika head to the back where a makeshift changing room was placed.

McCoy stammers as he watches them. "Jim…you don't think? Naw…he wouldn't, would he?"

Jim also watches them and is taken aback by the idea of Spock getting baptized. "Nah, he's just giving his daughter moral support. That's all."

Spock allows T'Meika to change first. Within a few moments, she exits wearing a solid white robe. He then enters and emerges wearing the same type of religious covering. As both make their way to the front, Spock's Star Fleet friends stifle gasps of astonishment.

Stephen escorts them into the pond. All three enter the cool water. The water level comes up to T'Meika's waistline. She stands next to Stephen and crosses her arms over her chest. Stephen places his hand on her back. T'Meika acknowledges aloud that Jesus is her Lord and Savior. She takes a deep breath and holds her nose as Stephen gently lowers her down into the water.

"I now baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit," he says, then helps her back up.

T'Meika smiles at him, and all applaud. She steps aside, but stays in the water.

Stephen moves next to Spock, who proceeds to cross his arms.

"I won't let you fall in, I promise," Stephen whispers good-naturedly.

Spock gives him a slight smile, then professes that Jesus is his Lord and Savior. As Stephen lowers him into the water and pronounces the words of baptism, Andre sheds tears of joy for his granddaughter and son-in-law.

Spock rises from the water to the sound of applause. Together with T'Meika and Stephen, he walks out of the pond and is surrounded by friends and family.

"Well, I'll be…" McCoy says, patting him on the back. "You sure pulled a rabbit out of the hat."

"Rabbit out of a hat?" Spock retorts with smiling eyes. "Doctor, I am not wearing a hat, nor do I possess a rabbit."

"Damn it…you know exactly what I'm trying to say," McCoy sputters. "What's going on with you, anyway?"

Spock decides it is time to reveal the whole story to his friends, regardless of their reactions. "I will explain. But first, give me a moment to change."

A few minutes later, back in his suit, he describes the miraculous incident on the ledge to his Star Fleet comrades, who listen attentively but with varying degrees of belief.

Jim, who didn't care for the 'church scene', is wary of Spock's decision, but wants to support his friend in this new life choice. "Spock, that story of yours is…awe-inspiring. I guess if that happened to me, I'd head to church, too."

Nyota goes up to Spock and lightly embraces him. "Spock, I'm so glad for you."

"Thank you, Nyota," he says with gratitude, for he knows that she, more than any other Fleet friend, understands his decision.

More words of congratulation are received by Spock and his daughter, T'Meika. The crowd thins as people head home. Pastor Roundtree and his family are the last to go. Alone now with his wife and children, Spock savors the day's happiness and allows some of his inner joy to reach his face in a rare, full smile. If somewhere deep inside, a Vulcan voice is whispering that he must forsake the human God, for now Spock turns his thoughts to the picnic.