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

The Nebraska Catholic Day of Giving has successfully concluded its second year, raising over $1 million through the collective efforts of Catholics across the state. This joint initiative by the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln, the Catholic Diocese of Grand Island, and the Archdiocese of Omaha supported various parishes, schools, and ministries statewide.

The event officially took place on May 7, with an early giving period starting about two weeks prior and donations being accepted for a week afterward. Organizations from each diocese registered to participate, enabling donors from any diocese to contribute.

In 2025, this fundraising effort raised more than $1.14 million compared to $1.04 million in its inaugural year in 2024. Across all three dioceses, 195 organizations participated this year, receiving 3,497 donations from 2,421 donors—a slight decrease in both numbers compared to last year.

Within the Diocese of Lincoln alone, 57 organizations participated—comprising 22 parishes, 20 schools, and 15 ministries—raising a total of $618,998. Schools received approximately $294,000; ministries collected nearly $259,000; and parishes garnered more than $66,000. Overall contributions came from 1,323 people in the Diocese of Lincoln: 567 to ministries, 549 to schools, and 207 to parishes.

Lincoln Diocese entities occupied six out of the top ten spots for total funds raised on the event's leaderboard. Pius X High School led with nearly $155,000 raised from 221 donors. Cathedral of the Risen Christ School followed with $100,605 in donations. The St. Thomas Aquinas Church – Newman Center ranked third with over $82,000 collected. Other notable contributors included Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska ($67,940), Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies ($52,423), and North American Martyrs School and Parish ($46,029).

“These donations reflect the true generosity of Catholics in our diocese and across Nebraska,” stated Bishop James Conley of the Diocese of Lincoln. “These funds will enable us to continue the good work our schools, parishes and ministries are doing to grow our faith and serve our communities. Thank you to everyone who donated.”

This annual event allows individuals to donate across diocesan lines regardless of their current location within or outside Nebraska. A steering committee consisting of development and communications representatives from each Catholic diocese organizes this fundraiser over nine months every year.