WAVERLY (SNR) – One of the more unique institutions in the Diocese of Lincoln is the Catholic Center near Waverly, notable because it is comprised of three entities sharing one property: the Marian Sisters’ Marycrest Motherhouse, Villa Marie School and Home for Exceptional Children, and Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House.
The site was blessed by Bishop Casey April 10, 1962, the buildings were constructed in 1963, and the three entities of the Catholic Center were blessed and dedicated by Cardinal Joseph Ritter of St. Louis May 24, 1964. The property, 80 acres of rolling hills between Lincoln and Waverly, is sometimes also called the “Marian Center” because of the statue of Mary under the large belltower in the center of the grounds.
While 2020 brought many changes to daily life, each institution continues to move forward in growth and improvement.
Good Counsel Retreat House completed remodeling of the 25 east wing guest rooms and now all 50 rooms with private bathrooms have new fixtures, curtains, carpet, bed spreads, soothing paint, and refurbished furniture. Retreats are offered both in-person and on-line, and Engaged Encounters with limited capacity, so all have the opportunity to safely experience a quiet retreat experience.
After transitioning to distance learning last spring, Villa Marie School is back in session, and continues plans for remodeling and expansion. This summer, resident students’ dorm rooms were spruced up with new paint, thanks to the Knights of Columbus of St. Michael Parish in Lincoln.
The Marian Sisters adjusted some apostolates, but continue to grow and accept new members. This summer Sister Serena Deters took over the formation of temporarily professed sisters and Sister Amy Marie Havlat began full-time work as director of vocations.
Unfortunately, the annual outdoor Marian Mass sponsored by St. Teresa Parish in Lincoln will not be held at the Catholic Center this year, but rather as a smaller parish event.
Another change that coincided this summer was the retirement of Patrick Perry, a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Lincoln, who is retiring after more than 30 years of service. Perry handled all the maintenance and grounds of Marycrest, Villa Marie, and the Retreat House since 1988.
“It’s a pretty daunting task,” said Father Gary Coulter, director of the retreat house, “he had such an amazing treasure of knowledge about our facilities.”
Mother Ann Marie Zierke, superior of the Marian Sisters concurred, “Pat Perry was very knowledgeable and kindly and patiently listened to all the needs of the sisters.”
“Pat was a familiar face to our staff and students,” said Msgr. John Perkinton, superintendent of Villa Marie, “He will be missed by all of us.”
In recognition of his years of service, the Catholic Center in Waverly is holding a card shower for Pat. As a way to honor his dedication, please send cards to Pat Perry, c/o Good Counsel Retreat House, 7303 N 112th St, Waverly NE 68462.
