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

Bishop James Conley received an award on July 25 from the Napa Institute during its 14th annual summer conference in Napa, California.

Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City, the ecclesiastical advisor to the Napa Institute, presented Conley with the “Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. Award for Courage in the Public Square.” Bishop Conley was recognized for his courage in sharing his struggles with mental health publicly.

The award inscription includes a Beatitude from Matthew 5:11-12 and acknowledges Conley's steadfast defense of God's Church and His children amidst adversity. It also commends his example of resolve and unwavering courage, which has inspired Catholics nationwide to uphold Christ's teachings on education, human dignity, and mental health.

A photograph by Zach Fiedler shows Bishop Conley with his award alongside Archbishop Coakley, Timothy R. Busch (Napa Institute chairman of the board and co-founder), and Mark Rohlena (executive director).

In May, Bishop Conley released a pastoral letter titled “A Future With Hope,” detailing his year-long leave from the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln to seek treatment after being diagnosed with PTSD, major depression, anxiety, and tinnitus. He wrote about the challenges he faced stepping away from his duties without knowing when or if he would return. He aimed to combat mental health stigma by sharing his experience openly.

“It was extremely hard to step away from my duties as bishop,” he wrote in the letter. “It was humbling to admit that I didn’t know how long my healing would take—or if I would even return—and I wanted to be honest with my flock about why I was leaving. The cultural stigma around mental health issues can create pressure to hide our struggles. I decided to combat prejudice and my shame by sharing my suffering openly. The outpouring of support and prayer I received from the good people of the Diocese of Lincoln was beyond what I could’ve imagined.”

Bishop Conley expressed gratitude for receiving the award: “Together,” he said, “let us continue to uphold the values of Christ and His Church, guided by the light of the Holy Spirit, as we strive to serve and uplift one another in His name.”

Founded in 2010, the Napa Institute aims to equip leaders of faith to live out authentic Catholicism despite societal opposition. According to its website, it ensures that lay Apostolates not only understand church teachings but can also defend them meaningfully. Jesuit Father Robert Spitzer serves as president of the Institute.