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

Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House in Waverly will host an event to honor its patronal feast day on Friday, April 25. The celebration, incorporating elements of faith, fellowship, and gratitude, will begin with a Mass at 8:30 a.m. A light breakfast, coffee, and fellowship will follow. Organizers describe the event as an opportunity to gather as a community and express gratitude for the intercession of the Blessed Mother, particularly for those who have undergone spiritual renewal through retreats.

Attendees are encouraged to participate in the "Desert Day" retreat occurring simultaneously. This retreat permits participants to arrive between 7 and 9 a.m. and leave at their convenience. The activities of the day are largely self-directed, offering opportunities for confessions, Mass, lunch, and Eucharistic adoration.

The retreat house's namesake, Our Lady of Good Counsel, is revered for a miraculous event dating back to April 25, 1467, in Genazzano, Italy. According to tradition, a festival crowd witnessed a cloud descend upon a decaying fifth-century church. When the cloud lifted, a fragile image of the Blessed Virgin and Child was discovered on a thin sheet of plaster, seemingly floating in mid-air. This fresco, believed to date back to the Apostolic era, was originally venerated in Scutari, the capital of Albania.

Despite much of Our Lady of Good Counsel church being destroyed during World War II, the image has remained intact for over 500 years, and numerous miracles have been associated with prayers offered in its presence. Pilgrims frequently visit the church in Genazzano, participating in the annual spring celebration each April 25. Globally, the feast is generally observed on April 26.

The April 25th celebration will take place at the retreat house, located at 7303 N. 112th St., Waverly. Interested parties can obtain further information by calling 402-786-2705 or emailing the retreat house office.