Bishop Conley, Gov. Pillen ask for prayers for Nebraskans facing wildfires

As Nebraska wildfires burn through more than 700,000 acres across the state, Bishop James Conley of Lincoln and Gov. Jim Pillen have asked for prayers.

Four major wildfires are burning across Nebraska as of Monday afternoon, including the largest wildfire in the state’s history, according to state officials.

“Please join me in praying for all those who are dealing with the dangerous wildfires in Nebraska right now,” Conley said in a post on X on March 16.

The four active fires are the Road 203 Fire, south of Halsey and Dunning within the Nebraska National Forest; the Lincoln County Fire, near Brady and Gothenburg; the Morrill County Fire, north of the Nebraska Highway 92; and the Anderson Bridge Fire, west of Valentine.

The Morrill County fire is the largest wildfire in the state’s history. Burning more than 570,000 acres, it is among the 30 largest wildfires in U.S. history.

“I was in western and central Nebraska this past weekend for confirmation Masses in Benkelman, North Platte, and Hastings and had to take back roads at times navigating some of the fires,” Conley wrote.

“We prayed for all the people being affected by the fires and all the firefighters at all four Masses over the weekend. The hotel in North Platte I stayed in was full, about half of whom were firefighters and first responders.”

“Pray for their safety and the safety of those whose homes and property are being threatened,” he urged. “Pray for the woman who lost her life and her family and friends.”

A Nebraska grandmother named Rose White died in the Morrill fire trying to escape, according to Pillen.

Pillen said the Morrill fire was “electrical in nature, with wind popping wires and sparks.” He declared a state of emergency on March 13.

Pillen, a Catholic, also urged all Nebraskans to pray.

“I think it’s important that all Nebraskans pray,” Pillen said in a statement on March 14. “The circumstances have not changed. Yesterday was one of the toughest days, and through the night, that we’ve probably ever experienced in our state.”

“Pray that God’s hand may calm the winds and bring much-needed moisture to help with the fight,” Conley concluded. “We ask the Lord to take control of the fires that are out of control and bring about a quick and safe resolution for all. Jesus, we trust in you!”