Incident at Immaculate Conception in Rushville
Sunday, April 14, 2019, I learned of the frightening incident that occurred at Immaculate Conception Church in Rushville. Palm Sunday services were interrupted when a man fleeing authorities entered the gathering area of the church, and was shot by law enforcement officials. Gratefully no one at Mass was injured. Tragically, however, Clarence Leading Fighter, the suspect, died.
I want to extend the assurance of my prayers and affection to Father Joseph K. Joseph, pastor of Immaculate Conception Church, to all who were present at the time of this incident and to those who have been affected by this most disturbing event. I offer my sincere thanks to the law enforcement officials who acted swiftly to protect the people attending Mass.
With fatherly affection I will meet and pray with the people of Immaculate Conception parish on Wednesday, April 17 at 6 p.m. in the church basement. Following the meeting, I will offer a Mass at 6:30 p.m. and bless the Church.
I am most grateful to the priests of our diocese for their support for Father Joseph and the people of his parish. I also want to recognize and thank the lay faithful across our diocese for their prayers and concern and thank all who have responded with such loving concern for the people of Immaculate Conception Parish. Let us be evermore united in Christ who is our Hope!
Most Reverend Joseph G. Hanefeldt
Bishop of Grand Island
Disaster Relief Resources for Nebraskans
Recently, a catastrophic storm swept across the state of Nebraska. The western part of our state was confronted with extreme blizzard conditions, while central and eastern Nebraska are grappling with historic flooding. Entire communities are underwater, roads are closed or washed away, bridges are down, and the lives of our people and livestock have been put at risk.
I want all Nebraskans to know that my office stands ready to do everything in our power to lend a helping hand in any way we can. Please be aware of a variety of resources that are available for people who have been impacted by this severe weather event. A comprehensive list and explanation of these resources is included below.
We have much work to do, but Nebraskans are resilient, tough, and compassionate. Hour by hour, day by day, we will get through this difficult chapter in our state's history, and we will remain #NebraskaStrong.
Deb Fischer
U.S. Senator for Nebraska
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RESOURCES FOR NEBRASKANS: Victim AssistanceIf you or someone you care about are suffering the pain of abuse, the Church wants to help. Please contact our Victim Assistance Coordinators to report church-related incidents of abuse or to seek support and find resources.
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