Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

One hundred people from the Superior area attended the second annual “Priest Appreciation Dinner” held at the Superior Country Club on April 12. The event aimed to honor the priests serving the area and was hosted by area Knights of Columbus councils. Nine priests were in attendance, including Father Birkel, Father Boehme, Father Waskowiak, Father Sparling, Father Seiker, Father Kelly, Father Kimminau, Father Morris, and Father Major.

Father Bernard Kimminau, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in McCook, served as the guest speaker at the dinner. He shared the inspiring life story of Father John Prachar (1918-1991), a priest from Czechoslovakia who served the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln. Father Prachar's journey to the priesthood was marked by challenges and perseverance, as he faced obstacles such as forced labor camps and political persecution.

Father Prachar's dedication to his calling led him to serve in various parishes in both Czechoslovakia and the Diocese of Lincoln, including locations such as Bee, Brainard, David City, and Superior. Tragically, Father Prachar's life was cut short in 1991 when he was killed by unknown assailants rumored to have ties to the communist regime, just before celebrating the 45th anniversary of his ordination.

The "Priest Appreciation Dinner" not only celebrated the present-day priests in the Superior area but also paid tribute to the legacy of individuals like Father John Prachar, whose commitment to their faith and service continues to inspire others in the community.