Southern Nebraska Register
“I spoke to the students about the importance of rediscovering truth, goodness, and beauty, in all that they are learning in the various academic disciplines, but also in their lives and friendships.”
Bishop James Conley traveled to Omaha March 3 to speak with students at the JPII Newman Center.
The center, a ministry of the Archdiocese of Omaha, primarily serves students at the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO), but also students from Creighton University, College of St. Mary, Metro Community College, UNMC, Iowa Western, and other institutions of higher learning.
Bishop Conley was invited to speak by Father Dan Andrews, who is in his fifth year as pastor and director of the center. He said the venue was a monthly dinner and speaker gathering of intentional student leaders: Mission Leadership Summit (MLS).
Father Andrews called the bishop’s talk “excellent” and said it was very well received by the students.
“He spoke about his conversion to the Catholic faith at the University of Kansas, as well as his healing from depression and anxiety,” he said. “He stayed and visited for about an hour afterward. The students loved having him here, especially the students from the Lincoln Diocese.”
The appreciation was mutual. Bishop Conley said he “really enjoyed being with the Catholic students.”
“I was impressed with their enthusiasm, hope, joy and clear Catholic identity,” he said.
The bishop said his talk was entitled, “Rediscovering truth and goodness in our lives.”
“I spoke to the students specifically about the importance of rediscovering truth, goodness, and beauty,” he explained, “in all that they are learning in the various academic disciplines, but also in their lives and friendships.”
The bishop shared with the students the story of his own college years and his conversion to Catholicism. He was received into the Church in 1975, when he was 20.
“I told them that they were making friendships during their college years that will shape the trajectory of life.”
The bishop stressed it is important to live the faith authentically, and to be a witness to hope and joy, particularly those who are struggling, or finding the college years stressful and filled with anxiety. The bishop shared his own struggles with mental health. In November 2020, he returned from an 11-month medical leave of absence for depression and anxiety, chronic insomnia and debilitating tinnitus, a constant ringing of the ears.
“I understand the demand and expectations that can be placed on this young generation can be almost overwhelming,” he said. “We are all on a wonderful journey through life, with peaks and valleys, shadows and bright light. Stay close to Jesus and his Church, and keep a sense of wonder in your heart!”
Related item: slideshow of photos
The JPII Newman Center has a residential facility with apartment-style housing and common spaces for social gatherings, study, and prayer, as well as the St. John Paul II Oratory.
“We are primarily a Newman Center for any college student,” Father Andrews said, “some happen to live here.”
The organization offers a host of activities such as Bible studies, guest speakers, daily Mass, service trips and more. Learn more at www.jpiiomaha.org.
