Pope Francis reportedly made a statement on the issue of civil unions in a documentary film. The Diocese of Lincoln has not received any information or communication from the Holy See regarding this issue. The question of civil unions for same-sex couples, nevertheless, remains distinct from the question of marriage. The unchanging, definitive doctrine of the Catholic Church is that God has created marriage as a permanent, life-giving bond between one man and one woman."

US Bishops Election Novena Oct 26 - Nov 3 The USCCB is offering an electronic Election Novena to help Catholics form their consciences and prepare for the election. Participants are encouraged to pray one Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be daily from Oct 26 - Nov 3 for the day’s intention. Find the daily intentions and signup to receive the daily novena intentions by email at https://www.usccb.org/2020-election-novena Signup to pray for our nation! Bishop’s Appeal for Vocations Your generous support

LDCCW 11th Annual October Pro-Life Diaper Drive St. Mary’s Altar Society is collecting diapers during October to benefit Nebraska Pro-Life organizations and Catholic Social Services, including St. Gianna Women’s Homes. The need for diapers has increased due to the Pandemic and diaper sizes 4, 5 and 6 are especially needed this year. Thank you in advance for your continued generosity and please drop off diapers in the St. Mary’s basement

The annual budget to educate our 30 seminarians currently studying for the diocese is $1.175 million. Each college seminarian is asked to provide $5,000 toward his education. The diocese pays the remainder of the cost of education, which includes tuition, room, board, insurance and some travel expenses. The BAV is essential to the future of our diocese and is designed to spread the cost of educating our seminarians across all parishes because all parishes benefit from the gift of priestly service. St. Mary’s goal is $4,440 and St Joseph’s goal is $1,130. Your generous support helps fund education costs for our diocese’s seminarians. Pledge cards will be handed out at Masses and donations can also be made online at https://www.lincolndiocese.org/vocation/bishopsappeal-for-vocations