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

St. James Parish in Cortland recently celebrated Jim Fuhrman, a longtime organist, for his more than 50 years of service. The event took place on September 29 and saw many former choir members and others joining him in the choir to mark the occasion.

Fuhrman's journey with St. James Parish began in September 1972 when he was just 11 years old. He first played the organ for the early Mass, recalling how his feet could barely reach the pedals at that time. Despite majoring in music at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a focus on trumpet, Fuhrman expressed that his true passion lay with the piano and organ.

In recognition of his dedication, new church hymnal books were dedicated to Fuhrman. A cake reception followed the liturgy in the parish hall.

St. James Parish serves over 150 families between Lincoln and Beatrice on Highway 77 in Gage County. The parish's history dates back to its first Mass in 1882 and its establishment as an independent parish in 1947. The current church building was dedicated in 2001.