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

Msgr. Richard Gyhra, originally from a farm near Pawnee City, Nebraska, has taken on a significant leadership role within the international Catholic Church. His journey began in 1999 as an assistant pastor in Lincoln and a teacher at Pius X High School. In 2007, he was informed by Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz of his assignment to the Catholic Church's diplomatic corps.

After three years of preparation, Father Gyhra became secretary of the Apostolic Nunciature in the Dominican Republic, serving until 2013 when he was named Chaplain of His Holiness (monsignor). His career progressed with appointments as secretary to the Permanent Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations in Geneva and later to the Vatican’s Secretariat of State office in Rome. Five years ago, he became counselor of the apostolic nunciature in Tanzania.

Last year marked another milestone for Msgr. Gyhra when Pope Francis appointed him as permanent representative of the Holy See to International Organizations in Vienna. In this capacity, he serves as an ambassador for the Holy See to various UN offices and specialized agencies.

In an email interview with SNR, Msgr. Gyhra discussed his new role and responsibilities. He shared that Cardinal Pietro Parolin informed him about his new appointment during a visit home for his silver jubilee celebration.

Discussing his mission, Msgr. Gyhra stated: "The mission of the Holy See is to assist the Roman Pontiff in carrying out His divine mandate... On the diplomatic level, one of the main goals is to protect freedom of religion."

He also spoke about meeting Pope Francis annually to discuss global issues: "We discussed a number of global issues... such as conflicts that are daily concerns."

Regarding criticism about church involvement with United Nations matters, Msgr. Gyhra emphasized: "The Holy See is recognized as a sovereign nation according to international law... providing an excellent opportunity for engagement."

He highlighted key concerns like de-escalating conflicts worldwide and protecting fundamental human rights.

Msgr. Gyhra explained that while organizations like OSCE deal with security issues amid current challenges such as Ukraine's war situation; IAEA focuses on nuclear disarmament discussions where moral guidance plays crucial roles over military interests.

The Church encourages limiting nuclear weapons testing through its founding membership within CTBTO despite slow progress towards ratification among nuclear-armed countries.

Reflecting upon how growing up on rural farms prepared him for diverse cultural interactions abroad today; simple life values continue guiding efforts toward peaceful resolutions internationally amidst ongoing tensions globally faced together alongside brother priests back home too!