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

The Nebraska Catholic Conference is set to host its annual Bishops’ Pro-Life Banquet and Conference in Lincoln on November 22 and 23. The theme for this year's event is “I Fear Nothing”: Pro-Life Evangelization in a Modern Age.

Paige Brown, the statewide pro-life activities coordinator, emphasized the importance of the event amid ongoing debates about abortion rights in Nebraska. "In both our culture and government, we’ve been tirelessly advocating for the protection and respect of all human life, especially for mothers and preborn children," she stated. She highlighted that with abortion being a significant issue on the ballot this November, there is uncertainty about the state's future.

Brown explained that St. Joan of Arc has been chosen as the patroness for this year's banquet and conference due to her exemplary courage. "As we consider this and other challenges in our modern age," she noted, "it’s easy to be overcome by fear. This is why we are adopting St. Joan of Arc as our patroness... Her spirit and example are a true model for how we can face the challenges in front of us as we cultivate a culture of life."

Greg Schleppenbach will be delivering the keynote address at the event. Schleppenbach, who currently serves as executive director for The Culture Project, has previously led pro-life efforts at the Nebraska Catholic Conference for 25 years. Brown expressed enthusiasm about his participation: “Greg has played an incredible role in shaping the pro-life landscape in Nebraska,” she said.

The conference aims to strengthen participants' commitment to pro-life advocacy while equipping them with tools to evangelize effectively within contemporary society.

Further details regarding registration and agenda will be provided soon.