Nebraska Schoenstatt Center designated for indulgences again in 2026
The Cor Mariae Schoenstatt Center north of Crete will continue to welcome pilgrims seeking a plenary indulgence, following an announcement on Mar. 13 that Pope Leo XIV has extended this spiritual benefit through 2026 for all Schoenstatt shrines, churches, and chapels in honor of the Schoenstatt Institute’s centennial.
This extension comes after the center was one of eight pilgrimage sites designated by Bishop James D. Conley during the Jubilee Year of Hope in 2025. The opportunity is significant for many Catholics who visit these sites as part of their faith practice and spiritual renewal.
Ruth O’Gara, a lay leader from St. Joseph Parish in Lincoln and part of the center’s diocesan leadership team, said, “We had many new, first-time visitors to the Shrine.” She added, “The Nebraska Schoenstatt family is delighted that our Cor Mariae Shrine will have another year in which visitors can receive a plenary indulgence. We feel it is a sign that the Blessed Mother wants to work from her Cor Mariae Shrine to bring many hearts to her Son, Jesus.”
Throughout last year, the center saw increased attendance from across the Diocese and beyond. Parishes organized group pilgrimages for tours and presentations about Schoenstatt spirituality and history. School groups also visited for days of reflection. The sisters offer regular programming including monthly First Saturday Masses followed by meals, third Thursday evening Masses with fellowship, women’s group sessions, movie nights, day camps and more.
O’Gara reflected on the value of pilgrimage: “To make a conscious effort to travel to the Shrine and step out of your normal patterns of life reinforces the importance of spending time alone with the Lord in prayer. The peace and beauty of the Shrine and the Cor Mariae property help to quiet the heart and mind and allow the pilgrim to focus, spending time with the Lord in prayer and adoration.”
The Diocese of Lincoln promotes adherence to Catholic traditions and engages members through communications and events, according to the official website. It comprises 134 parishes and six educational institutions according to its official website. The diocese seeks to nurture followers who actively practice their beliefs according to its official website. Its services extend across southern Nebraska according to its official website. Support is offered for vocations, family life, youth programs, catechesis, evangelization and charitable efforts according to its official website. The diocese operates as a religious organization according to its official website.
A special celebration marking the Sisters’ Jubilee will take place in October as part of their yearly Covenant Day event.
O’Gara encouraged visitors: “Bring your prayers and petitions… We have a jar at the foot of the altar where you can place your prayer requests.” All faithful are invited daily from dawn until dusk; conditions for receiving a plenary indulgence include confession, Holy Communion, prayers for papal intentions (Our Father, Creed, invocation of Mary), penance or charity work.
