holy-ghost-and-st-bernadette-parish-website

2026 Holy Ghost Car Show Raffle Basket & Donation Opportunities

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 21:33:26 GMT

2026 Holy Ghost Car Show — Raffle Basket & Donation Opportunities

The Holy Ghost Car Show 2026 is coming up on Saturday, May 30, 2026, and we invite you to help make this year’s event a success!

We are currently seeking donations to help create raffle baskets, as well as items such as condiments, soda, and water.

Instead of traditional hanging tags, we are using convenient online sign-ups.

Please consider contributing through our SignUpGenius or Amazon Wish List linked below.

You can help by:

Donating items to complete baskets that are already in progress
Creating and donating your own themed basket
Contributing requested food and beverage items

We also welcome any new, unused gifts you may have at home—they can be a perfect addition to our raffle baskets.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Heather Slizoski at 402-669-8863 or andyheather@cox.net .

Thank you for your generosity and support—we truly appreciate our parish community!

Click here to learn more about our 2026 Holy Ghost Car Show event.

A Sweet Welcome: New Parishioners Join Our Parish Family

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:54:28 GMT

A Sweet Welcome: New Parishioners Join Our Parish Family

There’s something special about gathering around a table—sharing food, conversation, and the simple joy of being together. On Sunday, April 26 , our parish family experienced just that during Cinnamon Roll Sunday, a morning filled with warm hospitality and meaningful connection.

Parishioners from both Holy Ghost and St. Bernadette came together in the Holy Ghost Parish Social Hall to enjoy cinnamon rolls, donuts, coffee, and juice. More than the sweet treats, it was the opportunity to slow down, visit, and build relationships that made the morning truly memorable.

This gathering also gave us the chance to warmly welcome new parishioners into our community. Meeting new faces, sharing stories, and extending a heartfelt invitation into parish life is what continues to strengthen our faith community. Moments like these remind us that our parish is not just a place we attend—it’s a family we belong to.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the morning so special. Your presence, kindness, and openness are what make our parish such a welcoming and vibrant community.

�� Be sure to take a look at some of our favorite moments from Cinnamon Roll Sunday in the photo gallery below. From smiles and laughter to new connections being formed, these images capture the spirit of a truly meaningful gathering.

We look forward to many more opportunities to come together, grow in faith, and continue building a community where everyone feels at home.

2026 Women of the Year

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:27:08 GMT

Holy Ghost & St. Bernadette crown 2026 "Women of the Year" Honorees!

We are proud to recognize two extraordinary women whose lives are shining examples of faith, service, and dedication to our parish family!

�� Holy Ghost Woman of the Year: Mary Baber

Mary Baber is exceptionally generous with her time and remains a constant,

supportive presence at our parish events. She consistently steps in to fill any role

needed—transitioning seamlessly from washing dishes to bussing tables—with a

tireless work ethic and remarkable gentleness.

Since her retirement from teaching, she has graciously expanded her

involvement by leading a core group for church cleaning and facilitating a "Live

Lent Together" group. Her dedication is unmatched, yet she carries out every

task with a positive, joyful attitude that lifts everyone around her.

Beyond her manual labor, she is a gifted organizer and leader. She assists with

the raffle baskets for our events and is highly effective at recruiting volunteers;

people are naturally drawn to follow her lead because she never asks more of

others than she is willing to do herself.

Furthermore, along with her husband, they lead by example, encouraging their

children to embrace the values of volunteering and selfless service.

Her commitment is deeply rooted in her faith, as she can be found in the front

pew praying before every mass. Even through the challenges of a busy schedule,

her unique ability to inspire others makes her dedication to the community seem

entirely natural.

We believe there is no one more deserving of this honor than Mary Baber.

�� Congratulations, Mary Baber – Holy Ghost's 2026 Woman of the Year!

�� St. Bernadette's Woman of the Year: Jackie Kmiecik

Jackie Kmiecik has been a long-time member of St. Bernadette parish.

She has been a member of many organizations; she often goes unnoticed, as she is never looking

for any recognition. She was a parent volunteer at the school when her children attended and

have been a long-standing member of the Altar Society.

She was one of the original members of the Adult Faith Formation Committee which

spearheaded initial efforts for Evangelization and Catechesis. She was a prayer team leader and

small group facilitator for Christ Life sessions. She also assisted in all the Faith Formation

opportunities that were offered.

Recently she entered the Archdiocese Mentorship Program and became the first Certified Mentor

in our parishes. She has also been involved in ALPHA, as a table facilitator, prayer team member

and kitchen crew. She accepted an invitation to be a member of the parish Senior Leadership

Team, where she has not only led the joint parish Hospitality Committee but continually

advocates for integrating prayer in all that is undertaken. This demonstrates her commitment to

keeping prayer at the center of all that we do.

As a dedicated wife and mother, with her husband Rich, they have raised a family filled with the

Spirit of the Lord, which has now extended to their grandchildren.

Jackie Kmiecik is truly a model of what it means to be a missionary disciple of Christ.

�� We are proud to honor Jackie Kmiecik as St. Bernadette’s 2026 Woman of the Year!

51 Years of Faith, Food and Fellowship

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 06:07:20 GMT

St. Bernadette Men’s Club Pasta Dinner Brings Parish Family Together

For 51 years, the St. Bernadette Men’s Club Pasta Dinner has been a cherished parish tradition — and this year was no exception.

The Parish Social Hall was filled with the comforting aroma of pasta and red sauce, the laughter of friends reconnecting and the joyful spirit that defines our parish community. Guests were treated to generous servings of pasta, hearty meatballs and savory Italian sausage, along with refreshing drinks and a wonderful selection of homemade desserts baked and provided by the Altar Society.

The afternoon also featured raffle prizes and the ever-popular meat wheel, adding excitement and fun for all who attended.

Events like this do not happen without the dedication of many volunteers. From the pasta crew in the kitchen to the food line servers, salad-makers, to-go assemblers, tray assistants, dessert team, ticket takers, cashiers, bussers and table reset crew — countless parishioners gave their time and talents to ensure everything ran smoothly.

Many hands truly make light work.

We are deeply grateful to the St. Bernadette Men’s Club for continuing this 51-year tradition and to every volunteer who helped make the day a success. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to support our parish community.

Traditions like the Pasta Dinner remind us that when we gather in fellowship, we strengthen the bonds that make

St. Bernadette such a special place to call home.

Game On 2026: A Night of Competition, Community, and Parish Spirit

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:56:08 GMT

More than a competition, Game On 2026 was a celebration of fellowship, generosity, and the spirit that makes Holy Ghost parish feel like home.

There’s something special that happens when a parish family gathers with purpose.

On Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, Holy Ghost Game On 2026 brought together friends, families, volunteers, and supporters for a night filled with laughter, friendly competition, incredible food, and unforgettable memories. From the moment guests began arriving, the energy in the room was electric — and it never slowed down.

The Kitchen That Set the Tone

Before the first game began, our incredible kitchen crew was already hard at work. The aroma of a delicious Mexican buffet — tacos, enchiladas, chips, salsa, and all the fixings — filled the air as volunteers prepared and plated food with care.

Behind every full plate and every satisfied smile was a team of hardworking volunteers who gave their time and talents to make sure guests were welcomed with hospitality and abundance.

Creativity on Full Display

One of the highlights of the evening? The costumes.

Table teams showed up in full force, embracing the spirit of the night with coordinated outfits, clever themes, and plenty of personality. The creativity, laughter, and camaraderie on display reminded us that Game On isn’t just about points — it’s about participation and parish pride.

Raffle Excitement & Generosity

The raffle crew kept the excitement building throughout the night, selling tickets and showcasing beautifully assembled gift baskets that added even more anticipation to the evening. Their thoughtful preparation and energy helped elevate the entire experience. When those baskets made their way to the stage, you could feel the room lean in.

The Champions of the Night

After rounds of competition and some impressive displays of knowledge and strategy, one team rose to the top.

Congratulations to Team #4 – The Yellow Team , who scored an outstanding 181 points to claim the 2026 Game On title.

Their teamwork and competitive spirit truly paid off!

The Heart of It All: Volunteers

None of this happens without volunteers.

From drink stations to food service, raffle organization to logistics, and everything in between — our volunteers ensured the evening flowed seamlessly. They showed up, worked hard, and poured their hearts into making the night a success.

Game On is more than an event. It’s a reflection of what makes Holy Ghost special: generosity, teamwork, fellowship, and faith in action. To everyone who attended, volunteered, donated, sponsored, or competed — thank you for making Game On 2026 a night to remember.

We can’t wait to do it all again next year.

Game on. ��✨

Alpha Course Starts Monday, Jan. 13, 2026

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 03:59:15 GMT

Explore Life, Faith, and Meaning with Alpha

Everyone has questions. Exploring is good—we’re built for it. That’s why Holy Ghost & St. Bernadette Parish Family invites you to take part in Alpha , a welcoming series designed to explore life, faith, and meaning in an open, judgment-free environment.

The next Alpha Course begins Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, at 6 p.m. in the St. Bernadette Church Social Hall.

Sessions will be held Tuesday evenings and include:

Dinner and Beverages – Enjoy a free meal each week with your circle.
Engaging Videos – Each session tackles a question around the Christian faith.
Open Discussion – Share your thoughts and hear from others in a respectful, friendly space.

Alpha is for anyone who’s curious—whether you’re looking to strengthen your faith, are just beginning to ask questions, or want a space to connect with others.

�� Location: St. Bernadette Church Social Hall
�� Start Date: Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026
�� Time: 6 p.m.

Come hungry for food and conversation. You do not need to be a parishioner of our parish. All are welcome. Bring a friend, too!

Call & Sign Up Today!

Deacon Al Aulner at 402-669-1714 or Terri Aulner at 402-669-9024.

Check out some photos below from a recent Alpha course:

Thousands gather for food, fun and tradition at 51st annual Polish Festival

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:11:18 GMT

Thousands gather for food, fun and tradition at 51st annual Polish Festival

OMAHA — A beloved South Omaha tradition continued Sunday as thousands gathered at St. Stanislaus Church, 41st and J Streets, for the 51st annual Polish Festival.

Festivalgoers filled the school social hall, where long lines moved steadily for plates piled high with smoked Polish sausage, sauerkraut, sloppy joes, golabki (cabbage rolls), pierogi stuffed with cheese, kraut and potato, and a sweet assortment of homemade desserts. Outside, large tents offered shade for meals, while families and friends mingled over cold beer, hard seltzers and other beverages.

Beyond the food, the festival buzzed with activity at the popular meat wheel, where winners walked away with salami, smoked Polish sausage and other cuts, as well as the crowd-favorite cake walk and grocery booth. The day was filled with laughter, music and plenty of smiles as longtime traditions met new memories.

The festival, in its 51st year, remains one of the largest annual cultural celebrations in South Omaha. Organizers credit the festival committee and dozens of dedicated volunteers whose work behind the scenes — from preparing pierogi to serving food lines to running the booths — ensures the event’s continued success.

As the sun set, the final songs played and the last plates were cleared, the 51st annual Polish Festival once again proved why it has become a highlight of summer in Omaha — a place where tradition, community and joy come together in every bite.

Holy Ghost and St. Bernadette Parishes Celebrate First Joint Weekend of Masses with Food and Fellowship

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 20:16:26 GMT

Holy Ghost and St. Bernadette Parishes Celebrate

First Joint Weekend of Masses with Food and Fellowship

Parishioners of Holy Ghost and St. Bernadette Catholic Churches came together Aug. 9-10 for a weekend filled with fellowship, food and celebration. The gatherings marked the first weekend of Masses for both parishes at Holy Ghost Church while St. Bernadette undergoes renovations.

The festivities began Saturday evening, Aug. 9, following the 5 p.m. Mass with a Wine and Charcuterie Party in the Holy Ghost Parish Social Hall. Guests enjoyed an array of crackers, meats, cheeses, fruit and other snacks provided by Charcuterie Creations . The wine and other beverages were provided by Cornhusker Beverage .

The event, organized by the Holy Ghost & St. Bernadette Hospitality Team, offered parishioners an opportunity to connect, share stories and celebrate the start of this new worship arrangement.

On Sunday morning, Aug. 10, after the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Masses, parishioners gathered again for a breakfast party in the Parish Social Hall. The spread included cinnamon rolls, coffee, juice, pastries and charcuterie-style snacks. The warm, welcoming atmosphere allowed parishioners of all ages to enjoy time together and strengthen the bonds between the two faith communities.

We would like to thank the Holy Ghost & St. Bernadette Hospitality Team for their dedication in planning and hosting the weekend’s events.

This was more than just sharing a meal—it was a chance to celebrate our unity as one community during this transition. We look forward to many more moments like this in the months ahead.

Sunday, Aug. 10 - Breakfast Party in the Parish Social Hall

Saturday, Aug. 9 - Wine & Charcuterie Party in the Parish Social Hall

St. Bernadette Bike Rally - Aug. 24th

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 05:05:48 GMT

St. Bernadette Bike Rally - Aug. 24th

��‍♀️ Get Ready to Roll! ��‍♂️

Join us for the St. Bernadette Bike Rally on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025, from 5–9 p.m.

St. Bernadette Church and School

7600 S 42nd St,

Bellevue, NE 68147

This fun-filled evening is open to our entire parish family and promises something for everyone:

Free food and drinks
$1 popsicles
Bingo games and prizes
And of course… a parade of wheels!

All parishioners are encouraged to bring a non-motorized mode of transportation — bikes, trikes, scooters, skates, skateboards, or whatever creative ride you can think of.

Just don’t forget your helmet!

Let’s celebrate community, summertime, and a little friendly fun on wheels. We’ll see you there!

Sponsored by: Home & School, Men’s Club, and St. Bernadette Parish

The Renovations Begin at St. Bernadette Church

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 03:21:54 GMT

The renovation of the interior at St. Bernadette Church begins August 4, 2025

The contractor has been hired (Leuder Construction), the permits have been acquired, plans have been drawn, materials have been ordered and the crew is ready to go, so the renovation of the interior of St. Bernadette Church will begin AUGUST 4th.

WHERE WILL WE GO FOR MASS DURING THE RENOVATION?

The St. Bernadette Saturday, 5:00pm and Sunday, 11:00am Masses will be at Holy Ghost Church (52nd Q St.)

August 9th & 10th is the weekend when all masses will begin to be held at Holy Ghost Church during the renovation period.

As renovations begin at St. Bernadette’s Church, the parish communities of Holy Ghost and St. Bernadette will unite to celebrate at all Masses at Holy Ghost Church for the first time. To mark this significant and important occasion, the Hospitality Committee has organized three “Meet & Greet” events after all masses during the weekend of August 9th and August 10th.

• Immediately following the Saturday, 5:00 p.m. Mass (August 9), you are invited to the Holy Ghost Social Hall for a “Wine and Charcuterie Party." While the adults enjoy getting to know each other better and playing an ice breaker game, the children can eat a hotdog and play in the children’s activity corner designed especially for them.

• After the 9:00 a.m. AND 11:00 a.m. Sunday Masses (August 10), join us in the Holy Ghost Social Hall for a “Breakfast Party” with cinnamon rolls, coffee, and juice. This will be a good time to make new friends from our Parish Family.

Each family attending will receive a small gift AND a chance to win a Charcuterie Basket with Wine, a Charcuterie Board, or a Gift Certificate to Stoysich meats.

2025 Women of the Year

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 06:17:18 GMT

Holy Ghost & St. Bernadette crown 2025 "Women of the Year" Honorees!

We are proud to recognize two extraordinary women whose lives are shining examples of faith, service, and dedication to our parish family!

�� St. Bernadette’s Woman of the Year: Jodi Ronnfeldt

Jodi Ronnfeldt is a proud mother of four, grandmother of seven, and great-grandmother to thirteen. Service has always been a guiding principle in her life. A devoted member of St. Bernadette’s Parish since 1969, Jodi has also been actively involved in numerous community service organizations.

Her commitment to others is reflected in her role with the St. Vincent de Paul Society, where she provides spiritual and practical support—offering prayer, groceries, and financial assistance to those in need.

Jodi has volunteered at the pantry and has also served her parish in many other ways:

ChristLife team member
Parish Council member
Volunteer at Mater Filius, parish festivals, and spaghetti dinners
Eucharistic Minister
Coordinator for the “Banner Rosary” for the Nation
Past President of the Altar Society

During her presidency of the Altar Society, Jodi helped launch a fundraising brunch and brought back the tradition of the “Honor Guard” to honor the passing of parish women. Her dedication to bake sales, raffles, and countless behind-the-scenes efforts have touched many.

Despite the challenges life has brought her way, Jodi remains a strong woman of faith, finding strength in prayer and continuing to serve with grace and compassion.

�� Congratulations, Jodi Ronnfeldt – St. Bernadette’s 2025 Woman of the Year!

�� Holy Ghost Woman of the Year: Pam Nowak

A Holy Ghost parishioner for over 60 years, Pam Nowak is the friendly face many encounter first at church. When asked to serve as a Greeter, she joyfully said “yes”—and now welcomes everyone with the warmest smile and spirit imaginable.

Pam shares the love of Jesus in everything she does. Her ministry includes:

Serving with the Holy Ghost Women’s Club (HGWC)
Sending Christmas cards to the homebound
Creating tags for the Advent Angel project for Bethlehem House
Serving beverages at funeral luncheons with a smile

Pam received her First Communion and Confirmation later in life after attending special classes and was a student at Madonna School before graduating from Omaha Public Schools. She and her mother attended daily Mass together for many years until her mother’s passing.

The third of seven siblings, Pam is a loving aunt to eleven nieces and nephews, who now care for her as she once helped her mother babysit them. She shares a special bond with her goddaughter Kimberly—and she even helps keep her sister in line at Mass!

Pam is a light in our parish family—dependable, positive, and deeply faithful.

�� We are proud to honor Pam Nowak as Holy Ghost’s 2025 Woman of the Year!

Check out our photo gallery below!

A HUGE thanks to Maria Blakeman of Planned & Plotted Photography and our parishioners for capturing some great photos of the fun evening!

2025 Game-On Champions

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 03:34:40 GMT

Your 2025 Game-On Champions!

�� Congratulations to the Red Team (No. 7) for being crowned the 2025 Game-On Champions! �� Your hard work, teamwork, and competitive spirit earned you the top spot!

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who participated, donated raffle items, and volunteered to make this event a success. Your support and generosity helped bring the community together for an unforgettable experience! ��

More photos and video are coming soon!

2025 St. Bernadette Pasta Dinner

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 03:28:26 GMT

St. Bernadette Men’s Club Pasta Dinner Update

The St. Bernadette's Men’s Club sincerely thanks all our great parishioners who came out to support our recent pasta dinner. God blessed us with a beautiful day and we had another great turnout. Special thanks goes out to all who helped us, whether it was for a couple of hours or if you gave many hours throughout the whole process. It takes a significant effort to make 125 gallons of sauce, 4,500 meatballs and 150 pounds of sausage.

We could not possibly do this without your help. THANK YOU! Congratulations to our Big Raffle Prize Winner: Kelly Overfelt who was our grand prize winner of a Prime Rib Dinner for up to 20 which was generously donated by parishioners Kris and Cheryl Galas of Eddies Cafe.

A Campaign for St. Bernadette

holyghost.stbernadette (Holy Ghost Bernadette) — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 05:40:02 GMT

A Campaign for St. Bernadette

Campaign Goals

Our Faith Goal: $1.27 million for the church renovations
This goal fully funds the church renovation and beautification and pays off professional fees and campaign expenses (architect, consulting, printing, postage, etc.).

Our Family Goal: $1.5 million to include the parish office renovations
This goal includes the Our Faith Goal and fully funds the parish office renovation.

Our Future Goal: $1.7 million to include doubling the facilities maintenance fund
This goal includes the Our Faith and Our Family Goals and doubles the amount in our Facilities Maintenance Fund

We are grateful for the parishioners who are serving as leaders and volunteers for our campaign:

Honorary Chair
Dcn. Subby and Lynn Enzolera
Paul and Mary Parr

General Chair
Chris and Sue Reed
Scott Riha
Tom and Janet Van Haute

Campaign Cabinet
Tom Ackley
Andy Flanagan
Pat and Chris Flanagan
Dorest and Linda Harvey
Jeff and Sue Miller
Chuck and Kathy Monico
John and Patty Pogge Rolly and Theresa Yost

Campaign Committee
Pat Blankenship
Mary Blaszak
Terry Deseck
Marge Egermier
Joan Foreman-Mertz
Kurt and Rita Frickel
Rick and Mary Huss
Steve and Cathy Jesus
Teresa Kabourek
Chris and Chris Kenny
Jackie Kmiecek
Mariann Kokotajlo
Terry and Karen Langan
Chad and Emily Liechti
Mark and Julie McNamara
Dan and Vicki Nyberg
Jerry and Chris Ortner
Kelly Overfelt
Diane Rosenthal
Barb Slaven
Fred and Joyce Sokol
Rosary Sorensen
Dick Strauss
Steve and Maggie Tooley
Bob and Linda Urbanski
Bill and Sharon Veys
Dale Voboril
Krissy Weiser
Linda Wiesen
Mary Beth Wilwerding
Carole Williams

If you would like to volunteer with the campaign, please contact our campaign manager, Beth Samson at bsamson@steiergroup.com

holy-ghost-and-st-bernadette-parish-website

2026 Holy Ghost Car Show Raffle Basket & Donation Opportunities

A Sweet Welcome: New Parishioners Join Our Parish Family

A Sweet Welcome: New Parishioners Join Our Parish Family

2026 Women of the Year

Holy Ghost & St. Bernadette crown 2026 "Women of the Year" Honorees!

51 Years of Faith, Food and Fellowship

St. Bernadette Men’s Club Pasta Dinner Brings Parish Family Together ﻿

Game On 2026: A Night of Competition, Community, and Parish Spirit

More than a competition, Game On 2026 was a celebration of fellowship, generosity, and the spirit that makes Holy Ghost parish feel like home.

The Kitchen That Set the Tone

Creativity on Full Display

Raffle Excitement & Generosity

The Champions of the Night

The Heart of It All: Volunteers

Alpha Course Starts Monday, Jan. 13, 2026

Explore Life, Faith, and Meaning with Alpha

Thousands gather for food, fun and tradition at 51st annual Polish Festival

Thousands gather for food, fun and tradition at 51st annual Polish Festival

Holy Ghost and St. Bernadette Parishes Celebrate First Joint Weekend of Masses with Food and Fellowship

Holy Ghost and St. Bernadette Parishes Celebrate

First Joint Weekend of Masses with Food and Fellowship

St. Bernadette Bike Rally - Aug. 24th

St. Bernadette Bike Rally - Aug. 24th

The Renovations Begin at St. Bernadette Church

The renovation of the interior at St. Bernadette Church begins August 4, 2025

2025 Women of the Year

Holy Ghost & St. Bernadette crown 2025 "Women of the Year" Honorees!

2025 Game-On Champions

Your 2025 Game-On Champions!

2025 St. Bernadette Pasta Dinner

A Campaign for St. Bernadette

A Campaign for St. Bernadette

Campaign Goals

St. Bernadette Men’s Club Pasta Dinner Brings Parish Family Together