Holy Family Shrine

The Holy Family Shrine in Gretna, Nebraska, is a peaceful Catholic site offering prayer, reflection, and spiritual retreats. Located off Interstate 80, it features a Chapel, Visitor Center, and the Way of the Cross trail. Services include Saturday 10am Mass and monthly Adoration on First Fridays. Learn more.

The Holy Family Shrine, located in Gretna, Nebraska, off Interstate 80’s Gretna exit, is a Catholic site designed for prayer, reflection, and spiritual retreats. The shrine consists of a Chapel and a Visitor Center, both created from a holy vision to provide a sacred space for visitors. The Chapel, with its unique design featuring water, glass, and metal, offers a serene environment for contemplation and worship. The Visitor Center includes a gift shop, conference room, and storyboards detailing the shrine’s history and mission.

The shrine is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from noon to 5pm. It hosts a Catholic Mass every Saturday at 10am, except on Holy Days. On the first Friday of each month, the shrine is open until 9pm, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is held from 7pm to 9pm if a Deacon is available, from September through May. The Way of the Cross trail, a 40-foot steel Crucifix, and a peaceful outdoor setting enhance the spiritual experience.

Facilities include a Chapel, Visitor Center, Gift Shop, and the Way of the Cross trail. The shrine also offers event spaces for church-oriented meetings and family events, though weddings and related activities are not permitted. The site is known for its beautiful landscaping, native prairie grass, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular destination for travelers and pilgrims seeking spiritual renewal. View schedule.

Holy Family Shrine in Gretna, Nebraska, offers a serene Catholic space for prayer and reflection, with a unique chapel design and the Way of the Cross trail. First-time visitors will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, clear service times, and peaceful outdoor setting ideal for spiritual renewal.

Pros

• Welcoming and peaceful environment for prayer and reflection
• Unique chapel design with water, glass, and metal elements
• Clear schedule for Mass and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
• Outdoor Way of the Cross trail and 40-foot Crucifix for spiritual journey
• Friendly staff assistance and helpful directions provided
• Beautiful landscaping and native prairie grasses enhance the serene atmosphere

Cons

• Weddings and related activities are not permitted on-site
• Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is only available on First Fridays if a Deacon is present
• Limited event offerings focused primarily on Catholic Mass and Adoration
• Hours of operation close earlier on Sundays compared to weekdays
• No specific information provided about accessibility features
• Gift shop and conference room may have limited inventory or availability during off-peak times