by Tom Venzor
God be praised for His mercy on Nebraska, through the defeat of Initiative 439 and the passage of Initiative 434.
Just over a year ago, pro-abortion forces deployed an all-out assault on the Nebraska State Constitution. Out-of-state interest groups, with multi-million dollar checkbooks in hand, came rolling into town after going 7-0 in other states where abortion measures were on the ballot. Thinking they could add Nebraska to their list, they launched what became Initiative 439, which would have enshrined a “fundamental right” to abortion and would have resulted in abortion being legal at any point in a pregnancy.
But, to the glory of God, Nebraska wasn’t having any of this!
“The Song at the Scaffold”
by Gertrude La Fort. Sophia Institute Press, Manchester, N.H., original publication, 1933, reprint, 2001, 124 pages, Grades 9 and above.
By Fr. Cyrus Rowan
Chief Administrative Officer
Hastings Catholic Schools
One of the highlights of my week is my scheduled visit to St. Michael Elementary in Hastings. After having Mass with all the elementary students on Tuesdays, I will go visit the kindergarten class for about 10-15 minutes for each of the sections. This has been very fun and entertaining and it keeps me on my toes.
By Katie Patrick
For some, the onset of autumn brings excitement for evening campfires, warm sweaters, and hot chocolate. For others, it’s a reminder of the season that follows, bringing cold nights alone on street benches or under bridges.
By Tom Venzor
For those who regularly read my column, this is another one of those situations I’ve talked about: I’m writing this column before a major event occurs, but you’ll receive it after that major event occurs. The major event this time around: Election Day.
This means you’ll know results about some pretty important matters, while I’m writing to you from the past.
So, what is there to say?
I think I can speak to at least this question: what’s next?
“The Black Stallion”
By Walter Farley.
Random House, New York, 1941, 275 pages, Grades 5-7.
By Ricardo Izquierdo
Director of the Office of Hispanic Ministry
When I entered seminary at the age of 17 in the fall of 2007, I thought of myself as a “pastoral” person. I thought that I could be a charismatic priest who would save at least one soul, a goal that would make a lifetime of work worth it. Alas, I left formation after six years, and it took me a long time to find my place in the secular world. I went back to school to get my master’s degree in secondary education, having experienced teaching through my apostolates in seminary and in Totus Tuus. Again, my idealistic self thought I’d be a dynamic teacher who would guide youth toward Christ.
By Dennis Kellogg
Director of Communications
In sports, preparation and execution are two important keys to success. A team that prepares well before the game, and then executes what it has learned in the game, increases its chance of success.
Preparation and execution can also relate to the Mass. As part of our work with the nationwide Compelling Preaching Initiative, we held a series of focus groups with priests, parishioners and students last spring. Those listening sessions laid the foundation for an effort underway in our diocese we call “Prepare and Proclaim: Enriching our Mass Experience.”
By Kristina Brandl
Food Market Program Manager, Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska
“The glory of God is human being fully alive.”
When I first read this quote from St. Irenaeus years ago, I was taken aback. It confirmed the direction I was headed in. I had found so much freedom in pursuing truth and discipline, regardless of how consistently, or well, I was applying that truth. As I am writing this article now, I am reminded once again of how this potent quote continues to affect me; how important it is to both receive the Lord’s love and then return it back by honoring Him in how I live.
“Mother Aspen: A Story of How Forests Cooperate and Communicate”
By Annette LeBox, illustrated by Crystal Smith.
Groundwood Books, Toronto, 2024, 32 pages, K-3.
By Tom Venzor
The other day, I was wondering if all the advocacy to vote FOR 434 and to vote AGAINST 439 was becoming repetitive and tiresome, not just to me, but to those hearing it. After all, it’s been nearly a year since pro-abortion forces launched their extreme abortion proposal, Initiative 439. But, thankfully, two small providential moments provided me renewed insight and energy—and I hope they do the same for you.
by Fr. Brian Wirth,
Director of Rural Life
In the midst of this dry and dusty fall harvest, the requests are returning: “Father, can we please pray for rain?”
In many ways, rain and favorable weather as a prayer request gets overlooked for many reasons. Outside of an agricultural or farming/ranching context, it’s just not something we think of regularly. And yet, rain and water are essential for life, both in body and spirit.
by Fr. Brian Kane
Rector, St. Gregory the Great Seminary; Director of Seminarians
“The Church needs and deserves healthy priests.”
By Mark Main
Thrift Store Manager,
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska
In 2001, my family decided to go out to dinner at Pizza Hut. As we were pulling up, we ran into an acquaintance of ours from church, Lou Gasper. He asked me if I was a Knight (Knights of Columbus, or KofC). I told him I wasn’t. He proceeded to ask me to join the organization. After a few weeks, I said yes. Little did I know, it was one of the best decisions I would ever make.
“The Blue Cross. The Father Brown Stories”
By G.K. Chesterton
E-book, Interactive Media. Originally published between 1910-1936. Complete set, 1,084 pages. The Blue Cross short story is approximately 29 pages, depending on format. Grade 9 and above.
By Tom Venzor
A small but vocal minority of advocates have recently increased their engagement against both Initiatives 434 and 439. They are urging pro-lifers to “Vote No on Both.” Their efforts to oppose and undermine Initiative 434 are misplaced and could do serious damage to Initiative 434’s ability to defeat Initiative 439, leaving us with unsafe and unregulated late-pregnancy abortions well into the second and third term of a pregnancy.
The “Vote No on Both” advocates advance several flawed arguments. I want to focus on three core arguments. For those who have been confused by their arguments, I hope my review and response provides you clarity and reassurance that we—as Catholics—can wholly support Initiative 434.
By Sr. Teresa Marie
School Sisters of Christ the King
This past July, I had the privilege of attending the National Eucharistic Congress alongside many of my Sisters and about 60,000 other people. The thought of the Congress still brings awe and consolation to my heart.
By Katie Patrick
As I begin this reflection on the Second Joyful Mystery of the Rosary, I want to take a moment to acknowledge my fellow columnist, Father Brian Wirth, assistant pastor at St. Peter Church in Lincoln and Director of Catholic Rural Life. His recent homily, which included a letter from Bishop James Conley addressing the upcoming ballot initiatives, reminded us that “God is in control.” In a world filled with noise—news, yard signs, commercials, social media, and controversial conversations—it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Sometimes, I find it necessary to disconnect entirely, even from my phone, to regain focus, clarity, and quite honestly, my sanity.
“Every Dog in the Neighborhood”
by Philip C. Stead, illustrated by Matthew Bordell.
Holiday House, New York, 2022, 40 pages, Grades 1-3.
By Jeff Schinstock
Director of evangelization and catechesis,
Director for pro-life activities
The Nov. 5 election is quickly approaching, and for Nebraskans this will be an extremely consequential election.
From now until the votes are counted we are going to be inundated with information on candidates and political parties. Elections are always important and the people we cast our votes for need to be examined, and we need to make good prudential judgements as we make our decisions. But this election, we need to have keen focus on ballot issues that will have a dramatic influence on the future of Nebraskans.
It has been an amazing political time. Internationally, war and chaos are raising anxieties as we pray for Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to act.
by John McDonald
Hastings Regional Director, Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska
It’s all about relationships. As I looked around Hastings Auditorium during our recent Bountiful Harvest banquet, I recognized hundreds of people who have supported Catholic Social Services in Hastings in the past through their donations of time, talent, and treasure. More importantly, I recognized hundreds of people who were, in that very moment, supporting CSS through their presence at this event. That night, our keynote speaker, Christ in the City’s Managing Director, Blake Brouillette, expounded on the goodness of “wasting time” with the homeless friends to whom they minister.
By Tony Arens
Principal, St. John the Apostle School, Lincoln
Catholic schools have long been regarded as a unique treasure in the world of education, offering a combination of academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community involvement. In a rapidly changing world, where the demands of education often focus primarily on academic success, Catholic schools offer something more profound: the formation of the whole person. This gift of Catholic education extends beyond knowledge and skills, shaping students’ moral compass, deepening their faith, and preparing them to serve others in a meaningful way.
“Lines of Courage”
By Jennifer A. Nielsen. Scholastic Press, New York, 2022, 388 pages, Grades 7-9.
By Fr. Christopher Stoley
Sacred Heart Church, Crete
Hispanic Ministry
One of the most frustrating things I experience in Hispanic ministry is the language barrier. Even though I have more or less gained a mastery over Spanish, the barrier remains, and can impede ministry to people with real needs.
As a priest, I have felt rather useless on a number of occasions, simply because something gets lost in translation, and it can be difficult to meet the people where they are and provide assistance. My Spanish is fine, but throw in accents, stresses, and people whose main language is a Mayan or Aztec dialect, and communication can become an arduous task.
With time, however, I had to come to believe that language difficulties don’t truly matter. In the first place, most of my people are just excited that I am trying — they don’t care how good or bad the Spanish is, they care that it matters enough to me to try. But secondly, they want a pastor who will show up. I had to learn both of these lessons the hard way, especially the latter, as it often involves tragedy or crisis. Three memories come to mind that illustrate this point, which I will briefly describe.
by Drew Hines
Director of Development
St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center
The devil is an architect, a mastermind of destruction. For our culture, for our youth, for our loved ones, for us. The unfortunate truth is that he has a plan for our lives and he strikes when we are vulnerable, isolated, and confused. But the devil isn’t the only one with a plan for our lives… Praise God.
by Katie Patrick
Early one Friday morning at the Catholic Social Services Lincoln front office, Thomas walked toward me slowly, taking time to look around at the others in the lobby, glancing into the chapel, and eyeing the breakfast burritos and coffee we had set out for clients on the kitchen counter. The front lobby was fairly full, with clients eating and waiting for appointments. In the mornings, we host Lincoln Literacy, a nonprofit that teaches English to refugees and immigrants, creating a vibrant atmosphere of hope and renewal.
As he approached, Thomas crossed his arms, leaning in to ask for a gift card to our thrift store next door. He looked tired; his face was clean but discolored, and his clothes were worn and slightly too big. He didn’t appear homeless, but perhaps he was hungry, tired, or both. He told me he had just left the hospital. His mom had bought him a pair of sweatpants when he was discharged, a gesture for which he was clearly grateful, but that was all he had, besides the shirt he was wearing.
by Tom Venzor
“…and they’re off!” – that is, the voters of Nebraska!
You might be the type of person who votes on Election Day, and that’s great. But there will be a high number of Nebraskans voting early, either in-person or by mail—upwards of 40% or more of those voting.
In short, it’s no longer “Election Day” in Nebraska. It is “Election Month.”
“All About Hurricanes: Discovering Earth’s Wildest Storms”
By Cody Crane.
Children’s Press, New York, 2022, 48 pages, Grades 3-5.
by Tom Venzor
In the next 40 days, out-of-state special interest groups and abortion activists will be spending millions of dollars to deceive voters. They will fiercely push a proposal to enshrine a right to late-pregnancy abortions in our state constitution, a proposal that would allow abortions far into the second and third trimester of a pregnancy.
So, how can we defeat this unsafe, unregulated, and un-Nebraskan effort?
By Fr. Brian Kane
Rector, St. Gregory the Great Seminary;
Director of Seminarians
“The harvest is abundant…” Mt 9:37
St. Gregory the Great Seminary in Seward is surrounded by fields of corn this year. The field behind us was recently harvested, one of the first fields in the area. As the combine kicked up dust, I marveled at how efficiently the machine rolled through the field, almost without a thought about how complicated the inner-workings are.
By Paula Schlotterbeck
Digital Media Manager,
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska
Time and time again, a fruit-filled wicker basket on St. Francis Gift & Thrift’s counter shares apples, oranges, and our Auburn team’s Christ-like love for the community.
by Fr. Brian Wirth,
Director of Rural Life
One of my favorite Masses to celebrate every year is a votive Mass for farmers commemorating the beginning of the fall harvest. This celebration is even better when provided the opportunity to celebrate with all the school kids and teachers.
This votive Mass provides a graced opportunity for our diocesan schools to learn more about our agricultural roots, and to be reminded to pray for all the farmers and laborers who work tirelessly to harvest crops in order to feed us and the world. Personally, it is always powerful for me to ask our school children to pray for our farmers, as their humble prayers are most of all desired by our Lord and His Tender Heart. (Mt. 19:14)
“The Monkey Trial: John Scopes and the Battle Over Teaching Evolution”
By Anita Sanchez.
Clarion Books, New York, 2023, 184 pages, Grades 6-9.
By Tom Venzor
I reported in last week’s column that we were due for a wild week, and expectations were exceeded. So, what happened?
First, last Monday, the Nebraska Supreme Court had oral arguments on both abortion-related ballot initiatives. The Court considered whether each initiative violated the “single-subject” rule, which prohibits a ballot measure from containing more than “one subject” in its proposal.
Nebraska’s high court said that neither initiative violated the single-subject rule and both could head to the November ballot.
By Sr. Carol Hohmeier
Marian Sisters of the Diocese of Lincoln
“Can we do this again tomorrow?” One of the little boys quipped this request after we just cleaned up from hosting a meal for the women and children at St. Gianna’s. Despite the amount of work that goes into these gatherings, they are a true source of joy for all involved. I, along with two fellow Marian Sisters, serve at St. Gianna’s Program, where we assist women and their families fleeing domestic violence or who are being coerced into having an abortion.
by Brad Brestel
Attorney, Immigration Legal Services
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska
For several weeks, we worked on a plan to respond to the request of the priests in McCook, to come to their parish and serve immigrants in the area who needed legal assistance. After lots of planning, we were ready to go.
By Fr. Thomas Brouillette
The railroad bridge repair crew was working on a railroad bridge when a train pulling a passenger car approached and stopped.
“The World Series: Baseball’s Biggest Stage”
by Matt Doeden.
Millbrook Press, Minneapolis, 2014, 63 pages, Grades 4-6.
By Rachael Tvrdy
Director of Family Life and Discipleship
Recently, I have been reflecting on the model of evangelization I observed during my years in Europe, where the lifestyle dramatically contrasts with our own American way of life.
By Jenny Dunn
Principal and Counselor,
Sacred Heart School in Falls City
Nestled in the southeast corner of Nebraska, roughly 10 miles from Missouri and 5 miles from Kansas, is my alma mater and the preK-12 Catholic school of which I am proud to be the principal and school counselor: Falls City Sacred Heart.
by Katie Patrick
Isolation, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is 1) the act of isolating or the condition of being isolated; and 2) to set apart from others.
In 2012, David committed a crime and was sentenced to 12 years at the Nebraska State Penitentiary.
Twelve years is a long time. In the beginning, his girlfriend and friends visited him, as well as a couple of brothers and a sister. His mom visited weekly, despite the long drive. But as time went on, his friends became too busy, and his girlfriend moved on. By the time he neared release, only his mother remained a steadfast visitor.
“Girls Play Volleyball”
by Anne Forest.
Power Kids Press, New York, 2017, 24 pages, Grades 3-5.
by Tom Venzor
Anybody who reads my column knows I don’t usually run out of things to say. However, this time around there’s not much to say. But what I do have to say is important.
By Jamie Carson
CSS Director of Sustainability
Imagine how watching a sunset creates a peace – a resolve that can be found in witnessing God’s creation.
Here in Nebraska, it’s fabled that summer holds our brightest and boldest sunsets, displaying the elements, shadows, and light bound up to create color in the sky. As summer turns to fall, it’s as if the sunsets dim and colors move to the changing leaves.
On Sept. 1, we entered into the Catholic Church’s “Season of Creation,” a time when we can be reminded of God’s great love for us by stopping to marvel at the world that he created for us.
by Tom Venzor
Right now, it feels like activity on ballot measures is both moving at warp speed and also crawling along at the pace of a snail. In a lot of ways, we have been in a holding pattern on “next steps” because we don’t have ballot numbers for any of the measures. In other ways, each day—and even each hour—seems to provide a shifting landscape on what to expect this November.
If you haven’t been living in this chaos, consider yourself blessed. And let me communicate what you “need to know” about the abortion-related ballot initiatives and the school choice repeal ballot referendum.
Fr. Douglas Daro
Pastor, St. Benedict Parish in Nebraska City
Hispanic Ministry
This column was written by one of my parishioners at St. Benedict Church in Nebraska City.
The culture and the faith of St. Benedict Church in Nebraska City is not just deeply rooted in the German immigrants who came here to escape to a better life. It is the story of our neighbors who come here to share their love of Jesus with those of us whose legacy of St. Benedict is not purely German, but captures the richness of the Hispanic community.
“Lord of the World”
By Robert Hugh Benson. Newman Press, Long Prairie, Minn., first published in 1907, republished in 1982,
Grade 10 and higher. Column reprint from 2010.
by Fr. Brian Kane
Rector, St. Gregory the Great Seminary; Director of Seminarians
“If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.”
This is advice given to travelers on the Camino de Santiago, the ancient 500-mile pilgrimage in Spain that concludes at the tomb of the Apostle James. I heard the advice for the first time as I started walking part of the Camino this summer.
by Tom Venzor
On Nov. 5, Nebraskans will decide the fate of abortion law in Nebraska: Will we protect women and babies by maintaining Nebraska’s current laws to defend life and safeguard common sense health regulations against the abortion industry? Or will we adopt a state constitutional amendment creating a “fundamental right to abortion” that would make Roe v. Wade blush?
That’s it. That’s the decision. Two very divergent paths lie ahead of us. Two radically different cultural views are on the ballot.
by Katie Patrick
On a swelteringly hot day in August, dozens of Knights and their families rallied around Mike Hosek, a member of St. Patrick Parish in Lincoln, as he led the fourth annual “Walk to End Hunger” event. What began in 2021 as a community engagement initiative through his employer, Better Life Insurance Agency, continues today under its sponsorship and the volunteer leadership of Mike and the Knights of Columbus.
by Fr. Brian Wirth,
Director of Rural Life
“Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” (Jn. 12:24)
As we find ourselves in August, with summer wrapping up and shifting into fall and harvest right around the corner, these words from the Beloved Disciple are worth pondering.
“I Must Betray You”
By Sepetys Ruta. Philomel Books, New York, 2022, 314 pages, Grades 7 and higher.
By Sr. Mary Guadalupe, C.K.
St. James School, Crete
Six hundred thirteen. Growing up, I would have told you that that number would be zero. In 17 years, I’ve taught 613 children, but I never wanted to be a teacher.
When I was initially discerning religious life, I knew that the School Sisters of Christ the King were teachers, but I still wasn’t drawn to the apostolate of teaching. I believed that God was calling me to religious life, and I wanted to be completely dedicated to Jesus and live my life for Him; I just wasn’t so sure about teaching. Growing up, I aspired to be in the Olympics some day, and maybe after that, a career in sports medicine, but not in a classroom. Now, however, I can’t imagine doing anything else.
By Katie Patrick
If you’ve recently experienced the intense heat and storms sweeping through southern and eastern Nebraska, you might be reflecting on the transient nature of our lives and the importance of planning for the future – or more likely, you’re dealing with tree limbs and spoiled food having gone too long without electricity. In any case, last week, as I navigated through the strong winds and a downpour on my way to our office in Hastings, my own thoughts turned to the need for preparedness. The chaotic weather was a reminder of how life can change in an instant and underscored the importance of planning for the future.
“Black Ships Before Troy: The Story of the Iliad”
By Rosemary Sutcliff, illustrated by Alan Lee.
Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, London, 1993, 128 pages, Grades 6-8.
by Tom Venzor
The Nebraska Catholic Conference (NCC) is typically busiest during the Nebraska legislative session. Many hours are worked to advance transformative legislation and defend against problematic legislation. Once the legislative session is over, life returns to normal as we work on a variety of “off-season” matters, such as our pro-life banquet and conference (which, by the way, will be Nov. 22-23).
But in the last two years, the NCC has remained particularly busy outside of the legislative session with ballot referendum and ballot initiative efforts.
by Summer Utrup,
North American Martyrs School, Lincoln
“I loved meeting you and I love your smile. It makes me smile!” said one of my second-graders to her pen pal. For the last three years, my second-grade class at North American Martyrs School in Lincoln has been pen pals with residents at Pemberly Place Senior Living Community.
by Jeff Schinstock
As summer reaches its midway point, the time is coming where parishes and schools are beginning to prepare for the coming year.
Catechesis plays a major component in this preparation. I believe that it is always a good principle for us to look at why we Catholics do what we do. Whether it be religion classes in school, CCD, Godteens or OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults), what is the point of the catechesis being done in your parish or school setting?
by Bob Sullivan
You may have heard about some petitions being circulated around Nebraska. I am hopeful that by now you have signed the two Christian petitions regarding abortion and that you have had nice, long talks with those who were trying to circulate the dangerous, deceptive, and demeaning petition which could declare abortion a constitutional right in Nebraska. Imagine that – abortion being declared a fundamental right! Satan cannot love. But if he could, he would love that.
“The Three Billy Goats Buenos”
By Susan Middleton Elya, illustrated by Miguel Ordonez.
G.P Putnam’s and Sons, New York, 2020, 32 pages, K-3.
By Fr. Scott Nemec,
Assistant pastor, St. Cecilia Parish, Hastings
It was the morning of Jan. 29. A call came in from the emergency room, “There is a 12-year-old boy in the ER, he is coding. Please come right away.”
by Katie Patrick
As a nonprofit organization, it can be tempting to gauge our success solely by quantitative measures—how many diapers are distributed, how much rental assistance given, how many pounds of food provided—especially given the requirements of our funders and grants.
However, at CSS, we strive to balance these metrics with a commitment to quality over quantity, ensuring that each individual we serve receives the attention and care he or she deserves.
“Goldilocks and the Three Bears,”
a retelling by Lorinda Bryan Cauley.
G.P. Putnam’s Sons, New York, 1981, 32 pages, K-2.
by Fr. Brian Wirth,
Director of Rural Life
Two Sundays ago during the 11th Week of Ordinary Time, the Communion Antiphon stated: “Holy Father, keep in your name those you have given me, that they may be one as we are one.” (Jn. 17:11)
In light of this, I’m reminded of a story that I recently heard:
by Fr. Brian Kane
Rector, St. Gregory the Great Seminary;
Director of Seminarians
Special pilgrims arrived at St. Gregory the Great Seminary last week. I received a phone call when they were about 10 miles away, asking if we were ready for their arrival. This is not very unusual, except that these pilgrims were carrying Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament in a specially equipped van. As they pulled up to the seminary and got out of the van, each pilgrim genuflected and waited for the chaplain to carry the Blessed Sacrament into the seminary Chapel to be reserved in the tabernacle during the visit. The pilgrims are part of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage crossing the U.S., headed to the Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis next month.
by Katie Patrick
In June, my family traveled to Stromsburg to attend the Swedish Midsommer Festival, a tradition that started the first summer Ryan and I met. While Ryan and I both have Swedish roots, Stromsburg is where my husband grew up and spent his middle school and high school years so it’s a particularly meaningful trip back home for him. We look forward to this festival each summer: a celebration of heritage, yes, but it’s also Ryan’s chance to share his past with our daughters.
“Give Me Liberty! The Story of the Declaration of Independence”
By Russell Freedman.
Holiday House, New York, 2000, 90 pages, Grades 6 and higher
By Sr. Janelle Buettner, M.S.
Marian Sisters, Diocese of Lincoln
“As we have shared much in the sufferings of Christ, so through Christ do we share abundantly in His consolation” 2 Cor. 1:5.
This Scripture passage is one of my favorites.
Several years ago, I was praying and talking to Jesus about many of my struggles in life. I was thinking I had reached a dead end. I had been asking Jesus to help me, but I was working hard to control the situation. I wanted to be free of the trials I was facing, but I didn’t know what to do. I kept reading 2 Cor. 1:5 and thinking, if I am sharing in the suffering of Christ through my suffering, then why am I not sharing in His consolation? I was not sure how to get out of the pit of struggle.
By Fr. Thomas Brouillette
Vicar General
The priests’ convocation that our presbyterate (body of priests of the diocese) recently attended in Kearney was directed by Father John Riccardo, who is a priest of the archdiocese of Detroit and founder of Acts XXIX. There are only 28 chapters in the Acts of the Apostles, a record of the Church in apostolic times and written by St. Luke. We are the next chapter in the life of the Church.
“Stubby: The War Dog” by Ann Basum.
National Geographic for Kids, Washington D.C., 72 pages, 2014, Grades 4-6.
By Sr. Mary Alma, C.K.
School Sisters of Christ the King
In A. A. Milne’s “The House on Pooh Corner,” Christopher Robin tells Winnie-the-Pooh that what he likes doing best of all is … “doing nothing.” I so agree!
By Katie Patrick
Father’s Day is a time to celebrate the invaluable presence of fathers in our lives, to cherish the memories we’ve shared, and to reflect on the profound impact they have on shaping who we are. As a Catholic community, we hold a special reverence for the role of fathers, recognizing them as pillars of strength, wisdom, and love within our families.
“Courage Under Fire: Father Willie Doyle S.J. Priest and Hero of World War I”
By Fiorella De Maria, illustrated by Christopher J. Pelicano.
Ignatius Press, San Francisco, 2024, 181 pages, Grades 3-6.
by Bob Sullivan
My friend Scott Watts has been traveling back and forth between Mexico City and Nebraska for many years now as a lay missionary for Hope of the Poor. It started as a mission to the poor in Mexico City’s poorest neighborhood, the city landfill. The mission trips also included visits to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The visits to the shrine turned into a deep devotion to and a lot of knowledge about Our Lady of Guadalupe. Now, that has turned into a call to go to Ireland on mission with a most remarkable travel companion: Our Lady herself. Scott’s idea, which inspired him to found Guadalupe Missions, is to bring the new back to the old. Not old people, but to an old bastion of the Catholic faith: Ireland. And it is sorely needed.
by Fr. Mark Cyza
Education Specialist, Diocesan Education Office
The Opperman family had always dreamed of sending their children to a Catholic school. As devout Catholics, they valued the integration of faith and education that Catholic schools offer. However, like many families, financial constraints made this dream seem unattainable. That was until they discovered the Opportunity Scholarship, a tax credit scholarship program that opened the doors to the education they had always hoped for Emily.
by Katie Patrick
Because the majority of my time is spent at our main office in Lincoln, I rarely have the opportunity to visit the many small towns that we serve across the 24,000 square miles of the Lincoln Diocese. However, a couple of weeks ago, I had the chance to travel west, with stops in Hastings, Holdredge, Cambridge, McCook, Trenton and Imperial.
It was this trip in particular that got me thinking about how diverse our diocese is—and yet how similar is the suffering.
By Tom Venzor
We need your help to make a tangible impact against the pro-abortion ballot initiative in Nebraska. So, how can you do this? Join our recently launched “5 for Life Club”!
Together, we can defeat the dangerous, deceptive, and demeaning pro-abortion ballot initiative. This can be done through meaningful conversations that matter and expose the extreme nature of the ballot measure.
By Katie Patrick
By the time you read this article, Mothers Day will have already passed, yet the joys and demands of motherhood continue. In addition to the dishes, cleaning, and cooking, as a relatively new mom of three little girls, I’m also discovering that event planning falls into this list of responsibilities, making sure birthday parties and activities are well planned and prepared for.
“Hidden Hope”
By Elisa Boxer, illustrated by Amy June Bates.
Abrams Books for Young Readers, New York, Grades 3-4, 48 pages, 2023
by Fr. Brian Wirth,
Director of Rural Life
This past Wednesday, the National Catholic Rural Life Conference officially celebrated its centennial anniversary in St. Paul, Minn.
Viewing the 136 parishes which comprise the diocese, as well as the many immigrant families who came to Nebraska to tirelessly labor and build up our particular Church both physically and spiritually in ardent faith, this is a historic milestone we should celebrate.
“Jerome Lejeune: The Saintly Geneticist”
by Ana Braga-Henebry, illustrated by Anita Barghigiani.
Spark: Word on Fire, Elk Grove Village, Ill., 2024, 48 pages, Grades 3-5.
By Sr. Mary Cecilia, C.K.
School Sisters of Christ the King
“To be a Christian is to be Marian, and to encounter the sacramental worldview means that we need to move away from a purely pragmatic and action-oriented attitude and develop the attitude of Mary.”
These words made me pause as I read “Mysterion” by Father Harrison Ayre. He went on to say that “a Church that acts but doesn’t pray, and plans but doesn’t ponder is a Church more in the image of ourselves than the body of Christ.”
“Getting To Know the World’s Greatest Artists: Mary Cassatt”
by Mike Venezia.
Children’s Press, New York, 2015, 32 pages, Grades 1-3.
By Katie Patrick
Last week, as my “Messages of Hope” article for the week came due, I sent an email to our team in Hastings, and to the marketing and development team, asking them to share some reflections on the “Give Hastings Day” that took place Thursday, May 2.
By Angela Miller
Principal, Cathedral of the Risen Christ School in Lincoln
I am often asked, “What does a principal do all day?” While it seems like an easy question, the answer is very complicated.
The only certainty in the answer is that there is never a repeat of the previous day. I never know what to expect because, when working with children, they are just unpredictable. As an administrator, I focus on supporting all students wherever they are—emotionally, physically, and academically.
“Tales From Shakespeare”
by Charles and Mary Lamb, illustrated by Arthur Rackham.
Pook Press, First edition, 1807, reprint in 2013, 322 pages, Grades 6-10.
by Jeff Schinstock
The spring is a time when the sacrament of confirmation is often celebrated. Of course we have the many people entering the Church on the Easter Vigil who have received the sacrament. We also have many parishes throughout the diocese having their young people confirmed. In fact, I was blessed again this year to witness another of my children experiencing the special grace of confirmation.
by Tom Venzor
In dramatic fashion, on the last day of the 108th Legislature, Second Regular Session, the Nebraska Unicameral repeated history by passing another critical school choice program.
When the Nebraska Legislature passed the Opportunity Scholarships Act in 2023, we became the 49th state in the nation to adopt a school choice program. In just under a year later, we have made another major stride on the school choice front. This new school choice legislation is another major step forward for Nebraska’s children and parents, to ensure they have more opportunities to choose an education that best fits their needs.
By CSS staff
At Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, we are blessed with generous contributions of time, talent, and treasure. This past week, from April 21-27, CSS celebrated those who donate their time and talent as volunteers in Auburn, Hastings, Imperial, and Lincoln during National Volunteer Week.
Incredibly, CSS notched 24,000 volunteer hours across southern Nebraska in 2023, and there’s room for more volunteers in 2024 as we endeavor to respond to our community’s needs. This includes families in need of food and financial support, women experiencing domestic violence, refugees and immigrants building a new life in our communities, and more.
By Fr. Alec Sasse
Vocations Director
Things don’t always go as we plan them, and, if God is entrusted with our “ruined” plans, it always ends up for the best.
By Deacon Santiago Izquierdo
On behalf of Hispanic Ministry
“The priesthood of Christ was different from that of all pagan priests and from the Levitical priesthood of the family of Aaron. In the Old Testament and in pagan religions, the priest and the victim were distinct and separate. In Our Lord, they were united inseparably.”
With these words, Venerable Fulton Sheen opened his wonderful book, “The Priest Is Not His Own,” in which he examines the priesthood. One of his main points that has stuck with me after reading the book is the importance of the sacrificial nature of the priesthood of Jesus Christ.
By Jan Schultz,
Volunteer at St. Isidore Gift & Thrift in Imperial
In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus says to his disciples in chapter 9, “The harvest is good but laborers are scarce.”
We have all heard that passage in the past, but have we taken it to heart? It’s something to consider as we celebrate National Volunteer Appreciation Week April 21-27 across this country.
by Bob Sullivan
Catholics grow up with confession as a part of the faith. Converts come to appreciate it. But for most non-Catholic Christians, confession to a priest is either something to be ignored, or something to be declared a heresy. This is an annoyance for some Catholics, but it is a potentially deadly game played by such Protestants.
“Bombs Over Bikini: The World’s First Nuclear Disaster”
By Connie Goldsmith.
Twenty First Century Books, 88 pages, 2014, Grades 6-High School
by Katie Patrick
Have you ever called our main line at the Catholic Social Services Lincoln office? The number is (402) 474-1600. If you have called, perhaps it was to connect with a member of our team, or to make a donation, or schedule a furniture pick up, or to request help from one of our programs such as food assistance or financial assistance.
Well, whatever the case may have been, did you get what you needed? I hope so! But if you didn’t, and you were frustrated by our phone tree, and it took you multiple tries to get the person you needed, I get that, too.
by Fr. Brian Wirth,
Director of Rural Life
He said to them, “Do not be amazed! You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified. He has been raised; he is not here.” (Mark 16:6)
These words from the angel to Mary Magdalene and the women never cease to amaze. I pray that you are having a hope-filled and joyous Easter season. Truly, He is Risen! Alleluia!
For priests, religious, and laity alike, one of the best Masses to attend every year is the Chrism Mass, which takes place annually at the Cathedral on the Monday of Holy Week.
by Fr. Brian Kane
Rector, St. Gregory the Great
Seminary; Director of Seminarians
About this time each year, parishioners across the Diocese of Lincoln scour the Southern Nebraska Register or the diocesan website, looking to see whether any of the priests at their parishes are being transferred. It can be a difficult day for some who have come to appreciate the presence of the pastor or his assistant. It can also be a difficult time for priests as they say goodbye to the people who have been their parishioners and with whom they have shared much.
“The Night Walk”
by Marie Dorleans.
Floris Books, Paris, 2020, 32 pages, K-2.
By Sr. Clare Sullivan, M.S.
The Easter season is a season of joy! Celebrating the Easter season is an invitation to us from the Lord to live joyfully. Jesus has won the victory over sin and death for us, so we have every reason to be joyful.
Faith in Jesus’ love for us is an important first step. I recall the Lent of the year after I graduated from high school, when I was still living at home and working as a receptionist for a doctor in my home town. Coming home from work one day, Mom mentioned that the new community of sisters in Lincoln was having a weekend retreat for young women, and asked if I would be interested. It sounded like a good thing to do during Lent, so I registered for it and went.
by Fr. Thomas Brouillette
“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but he has been raised. Remember what he said to you while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners and be crucified, and rise on the third day.” Luke 24:5-7
Throughout the week we call ‘Holy,’ we celebrated the sacred liturgies and entered into the climax of the Sacred Triduum, in the Easter Vigil of the Resurrection. In Holy Week, we did not simply reenact events that took place in history. Precisely because these faith-anchoring events are historical, they cannot be repeated or reenacted. The Church’s long tradition insists that what happened once in history passes over into the mystery of the assembly’s liturgical, sacramental celebration. We do not celebrate history only, the liturgies remind us, but do not take us back to the upper room, or to the Garden of Gethsemane or to the Golgotha. Their purpose is not to retrace, nor catch sight of Him as did Mary Magdalen, by imagining the tomb with the stone rolled back—even as helpful as this can be to our prayer.
