Since the Nebraska Territory was formed in 1854, Catholics have been a strong presence. The oldest Catholic community in the Cornhusker State formed in St. John City in 1856. The same year, the first Catholic church in Omaha was built.
By 1859 there were only 3 priests to cover the 357,000 square miles of the Vicariate Apostolic of Nebraska Territory, which included not just Nebraska, but parts of Utah, Montana, and the Dakotas. Yet growing numbers of German and Irish immigrants kept boosting the Catholic population. The bishop focused on ordaining and bringing in new priests, and by 1874, the vicariate had 19 priests serving 12,000 Catholics.
The faith of those early pioneers nurtured the faith of later Nebraskans. Today Nebraska is home to two Catholic universities and a number of religious communities, not to mention numerous churches and shrines in its three dioceses.
Nearly a quarter of the state is Catholic today. Here are some of the places where Cornhuskers worship and pray. Each would make a wonderful pilgrimage destination, especially in this Jubilee Year.
1Holy Family Shrine, Gretna
You can’t miss this stunning landmark as you drive past it on Interstate 80. The Holy Family Shrine is a peaceful setting designed to help visitors strengthen their faith through prayer and reflection.
Consisting of a Chapel and a Visitor Center, the Shrine provides an opportunity for quiet contemplation in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, as well as a unique and sacred space for church-oriented meetings and family events.
2St. Cecilia Cathedral, Omaha
Begun in 1905 and consecrated in 1959, this awe-inspiring edifice designed by architect Thomas Rogers Kimball was one of the 10 largest cathedrals in the United States when it was completed.
The cathedral is notable for its Spanish Renaissance Revival architectural style, a nod to the early influence of Spain and Mexico on the region. It was once part of the missionary area subject to the See of Santiago de Cuba.
The cathedral is home to a thriving parish community and is a hub of spiritual and social activities for the diocese. Besides the wondrous stained glass, sculptures, and paintings, don’t miss the cathedral’s Spanish Colonial Art collection.
3St. Anthony of Padua Church, Steinauer
The small farming community of Steinauer is home to this large and magnificent church, which the local German Catholic community built in 1926. It is one of a number of gorgeous rural churches, a testament to the devotion of the local community.
Besides visiting the beautiful Romanesque church, visitors can enjoy a stay at The Convent House Bed and Breakfast across the street.
4Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, Arapahoe
This peaceful outdoor shrine holds a fascinating history. A young Polish priest, Fr. Henry Denis, survived the Dachau Concentration Camp during World War II. He built the shrine in gratitude after his life was miraculously spared.
The lush garden setting depicts Our Lady of Fatima appearing to the three Portuguese children, Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta. Visitors can also enjoy the elegantly landscaped Rosary Walk and attend services at neighboring St. Germanus Church.
5St. Benedict Center, Schuyler
In the spirit of Benedictine hospitality, St. Benedict Center welcomes all guests as Christ, offering a place of peace for people of many faiths who seek God.
St. Benedict Center is a ministry of the Catholic Missionary Benedictine community of Christ the King Priory. Designed to be an “oasis of peace,” visitors of all faiths are welcome to visit and take part in retreats, programs and spiritual direction. The 160-acre campus includes walking paths, a labyrinth, and outdoor Stations of the Cross.
Visitors can schedule tours and visit the book store and interactive permanent displays highlighting the work of Missionary Benedictines worldwide and The St. John’s Bible, the first handwritten bible in over 500 years. The center also houses a large Madonna collection with statues from the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
Bonus Site
Cloisters on the Platte, Gretna
It’s difficult to get a spot at this lovely retreat center because it’s so popular! The Cloisters brings a 500-year tradition of Ignatian spirituality to Nebraska. Completed in 2017, its tranquil setting near the Platte River is a rare combination of natural isolation and accessibility to highways.
Every year, The Cloisters brings the power of quiet reflection to people seeking spiritual renewal. Throughout the year, it offers silent retreats rooted in Ignatian spirituality.
