Southern Nebraska Register
Kathy Neugebauer has been on a mission for the past 16 years – mission to pray for loved ones of hers and others to return to the Catholic faith.
Neugebauer, a member of the Cathedral of the Risen Christ Parish in Lincoln, has led a Marian Mantle Silent Strength Prayer Group in the Lincoln Diocese since 2009, even through the trying times of COVID, before recently handing off the facilitator’s role. The group is dedicated to helping those who share the heartache of a loved one who is no longer a practicing Catholic. Neugebauer’s prayers, however, won’t end.
“I’m still coming to our twice-a-month prayer gatherings and will always, always pray for our prodigals and believe in our Lord’s will,” said Neugebauer. “Hope is never ending!”
The Marian Mantle lay apostolate was founded by Mary Ann Gardner of Kansas, and the groups are dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows and ask her to intercede for the return of their loved ones to the practice of the faith.
Neugebauer’s successor in facilitating the prayer gatherings, held in the Cathedral’s lower level, is Bob McDonald, a member of St. Patrick Parish in Lincoln.
“I have been a part of the Marian Mantle group for only a short time, so it’s quite intimidating to take over from Kathy,” McDonald said. “Her devotion to this ministry is remarkable and inspiring. We’re so grateful to her.”
It has not taken long for McDonald to appreciate the role of the group and the value of its prayers.
“I had been searching for an outlet for my worries about my loved ones who are no longer practicing, or perhaps just adrift,” he said. “It helps to know others who are facing the same situation, and it’s even more helpful to join our prayers together as we ask for Our Lady’s intercession.”
The group meets in Rectors Hall at the Cathedral at 4 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. The hour includes the Divine Mercy chaplet and a rosary, as well as petitions and other prayers. There are no dues or commitments, and the group does not record names of prodigals. Mass is celebrated at the Cathedral, 3500 Sheridan Blvd., at 5 p.m. for those who wish to attend.
For more information about the group, McDonald can be reached at 402-203-6947 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. More information about the national apostolate is available at www.marianmantle.com.
