Holy Family Shrine, Catholic sanctuary in Gretna, Nebraska
The Holy Family Shrine sits on bluffs overlooking Interstate 80 and combines western red cedar beams with glass walls and a limestone base structure. The design creates an open, light-filled space suited for prayer and reflection.
Four Catholics, including a priest and two architects, started this project in 1993 and completed the chapel in 2002 after facing structural challenges. The initiative grew from a desire to create a place of worship along this heavily traveled route.
The southern window displays an etching of the Holy Family that fills the space with religious meaning. Visitors also notice a sculpture near the visitor center entrance that references the tomb of Jesus.
The shrine welcomes visitors on most weekdays and weekends, with regular worship services offered throughout the week. A visitor center provides information and hosts gatherings, so checking current hours before your visit is wise.
A 40-foot cross rises above the interstate and is visible from a distance. Beneath it, an underground visitor center is designed like a prairie dugout and contains meeting spaces built below ground level.
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