Expressions of gratitude speak to Archbishop Lucas’ positive impact in northeast Nebraska

Almost 16 years ago, Archbishop George J. Lucas was installed as the fifth Archbishop of Omaha. During his Mass of Installation, nearly 1,000 people packed into St. Cecilia Cathedral in Omaha to welcome him to northeast Nebraska. Now, many of those who attended that Mass – and countless others – are offering heartfelt thanks for his spiritual guidance and leadership over the years.

Here are just some of the many well-wishes offered to Archbishop Lucas since news of his retirement was made public. (Some have been edited for space.)

Committed to the Gospel. Dedicated to his flock.

“We appreciate all your sacrifices, prayers and fasting you have done for us. The love you have shown for the Hispanic community has made us feel welcome into the Church of Jesus Christ.” – Guadalupe Lima

“Thank you for your tireless leadership of the Archdiocese of Omaha over these past fifteen-plus years. You have been an inspiration to me and countless others. We wish you a happy, healthy and peaceful retirement. May God bless you always.” – Deacon William and Mary Carter

“Your unwavering commitment to the Gospel, your courage to speak truth with compassion, and your pastoral heart have been a beacon of hope in a world so in need of light. You have led with humility, wisdom, and strength – always pointing us toward Christ, even in the most challenging times. Thank you for being a shepherd who has walked closely with his flock, never from a distance, but always with us.” – Gina Tomes

“Although men take a vow of obedience to the bishop who ordains us and his successors, you, as the man who ordained me, will always have a special place of affection and gratitude in my heart.” – Deacon Roger Filips

“Thank you for your Spirit of Christ-filled vision for all of us in the archdiocese, but most importantly, for your faith and trust in our Lord, accepting the responsibility He called you to fulfill in ways that He customized for you and for us.”  – Rebecca Davis Mathias

“I want to thank you for your inspiration for the Omaha diocese in being missional parishes. I think there is a new spark in our diocese and people are more intentional about knowing Jesus!” – Linda DeTurk

“Thank you, dear Archbishop Lucas, for your fatherly care for us these past 16 years. You have guided the flock of the Omaha Archdiocese to come to know Jesus as our Savior and our Friend and have helped us to be His missionary disciples.” – Father Carl Zoucha

Leave your own message of thanks for Archbishop Lucas here.

“We were so very blessed to have had your leadership for these past 15 years. Your commitment to your calling has been so powerful to see. Your example of love and kindness has truly been inspiring.” – John J. Griffith

“It seems like yesterday when we first met upon your arrival in Omaha. Our first exchange was simple. I welcomed you and said wow, you have a big job, and you humbly said, ‘I’m here to help you get to heaven. That’s my job, and it’s the privilege I have.’  It has been just that, a privilege to know you and walk with you in our journey to grow in our relationship with Christ.” – Tammy Blossom

“Thank you for your faithfulness, humility and gentle example.” – Julianne Marie Crotty-Guile

“Your commitment to serving the faithful has been a source of immense strength and inspiration within our community and beyond. Your guidance and pastoral care continue to be deeply appreciated, and we are profoundly blessed by your presence among us. Grateful for your tireless work, spreading joy through humility and the positive impact you have had on the lives of so many.” – Genevieve Stamp

“I want to express my gratitude for your years of service to the Archdiocese of Omaha. You have done such a great job of leading the Archdiocese of Omaha through some pretty tough times. I want you to know that you are in my prayers every day.” – Father Rodney Kneifl

“As I reflect on your time here, I think about how much you did for your flock, things you had to endure, unexpected things too and you did it all with so much grace and dedication!” – Joslyn Thomas

“Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for all you do for our Catholic Church. Your great personality and your ways of being a great shepherd to everyone impacted me a lot. You never have a difference of treatment for any person and it is what I like most about you, Archbishop.” – Angelica Gomez

“Thank you for all the work you’ve done to bring so many faithful Catholics to a deeper relationship with our Lord Jesus. Your outreach and engagement with eager young Catholics have been inspirational. The lifting up of our parish communities to intentionally be Missional Communities is seeing great success. And your personal invitation to believers to be Jesus to others is life-changing.” – John Youchum