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

Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House in Waverly is organizing an Advent retreat titled “Great Marian Saints and Prophets” from December 19 to 21. The event will be led by Father Elias Mary, F.I., a missionary priest with the Franciscans of the Immaculate who recently marked his 25th year as a priest.

The retreat is open to both in-person and online participants. Activities will start on Friday evening with a rosary and Mass at 8 p.m., and conclude after Sunday Mass followed by a noon lunch.

Father Elias Mary has served in Australia, Italy, and the United States, focusing his ministry on encouraging devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He stated, “Of Mary, one can never say enough. Devotion to Mary is absolutely essential and central to becoming an imitator of Christ and bringing His love to the world.”

During the weekend, Father Elias will discuss the lives and teachings of St. Louis de Montfort, St. Maximilian Kolbe, and Bl. William Chaminade—figures known for their dedication to Mary within the Catholic Church.

“My desire,” said Father Elias Mary, “is to make Our Lady better known and loved, so that Jesus can be better known and loved—and to help bring about the reign of the Sacred Heart of Jesus through the Immaculate Heart of Mary.”

Those interested in more information or registration can visit www.goodcounselretreat.org or call 402-786-2705.