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

St. Mary Parish in Lincoln is set to host a parish mission with the Neocatechumenal Way from March 17 through May 4. Missionaries will conduct catechesis sessions on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., open to individuals aged 13 and older, with free babysitting available.

The initiative follows an invitation by Bishop James Conley last fall for similar events. In a letter to parishioners, Father Joseph Walsh, the pastor of St. Mary Parish, emphasized that "the beauty of this mission is that you don’t have to be a Christian, or a Catholic, or in sacramental communion with the Church." He encouraged participation by stating, "You only need to listen to the voice within."

The Neocatechumenal Way offers post-baptismal Christian formation inspired by early Church practices. Founded in Spain in 1964 by Francisco “Kiko” Gomez-Argüello and Carmen Hernández, it aims to create communities like "the Holy Family of Nazareth," characterized by humility and simplicity. The movement has since expanded globally and was recognized as a fruit of the Second Vatican Council by Pope Saint Paul VI.

Father Walsh highlighted the mission's goal of fostering personal encounters with Jesus Christ beyond doctrinal instruction. He expressed his own commitment: “I’m coming because I know I am called...to encounter the Lord in this new way.”

He addressed potential participants facing various life challenges, noting that "Jesus Christ takes us where we are at" and offers guidance through grace accessible in any circumstance.

The mission will conclude with a gathering on May 2-4, encouraging ongoing community engagement through weekly meetings thereafter.

For further details or inquiries about babysitting services, interested parties can contact 720-525-6856.