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

CHI Health Nebraska Heart Hospital in Lincoln marked its third annual celebration of the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 27. The event featured the blessing of a new statue of the Sacred Heart, donated by Dr. Stephen Ackerman, who recently retired as a cardiologist at the hospital.

The hospital primarily serves patients with cardiac needs. Sister Faustina Lightfoot, a Marian Sister and nurse at Nebraska Heart Hospital, said that the annual feast day has been an important source of hope and encouragement for staff members.

During the event, former patient Gary Rezac spoke about his experience receiving care at Nebraska Heart Hospital and expressed appreciation for all staff involved in his treatment.

“Everyone from top to bottom at the Nebraska Heart Hospital shared their compassion with me and it was a blessing to encounter each one of them,” Rezac said.

Sister Faustina reflected on her work caring for critically ill patients and described how her faith provides support during difficult times.

“The image of Jesus’ open, pierced and burning heart lets us know that we are not alone in the midst of our suffering,” she said, “and provides great comfort and consolation to those who are sick and suffering and those who care for them.”

The newly blessed statue is now located outside in the hospital’s meditation garden. Sister Faustina noted that it offers peace to both patients and their families.

“It greatly warms my heart to see patient family members gazing upon the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” she said, “knowing that God is the one who can comfort and heal.”