CTA Nebraska members are hosting a regional conference May 16-17 in Lincoln, Neb., on the first anniversary of the excommunication by Lincoln Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz, and sanctions threatened by Omaha Archbishop Elden Curtiss. The theme is: "It's a Matter of Conscience." Among the speakers are Edwina Gateley, Bob McClory, Patty Crowley, Amata Miller IHM, Ray and Christin McGovern.

Archconversative Catholics, as expected, are opposing the event. A "Call to Holiness" counter-conference is being planned in Lincoln the same weekend, just as partisans of Mother Angelica hosted a counter-conference in Detroit during the CTA National convention last November. The right-wing newspaper, The Wanderer, recently discussed in print whether Catholics who come to Lincoln for the CTA event would be banned from the sacraments. No, said the Lincoln diocesan chancellor, but visiting priests and bishops would be prohibited from celebrating any sacraments or public worship sponsored by CTA.

Leaders of CTA/NE have appealed to CTAers around the country for support. In a letter mailed with their conference brochure, they write that they want to shift the focus away from negative events and toward the positive: "We are celebrating the grace to speak truth to power." Please support them by bringing a delegation to Lincoln. Or, give them your financial and spiritual solidarity. Become a co-sponsor ($10 for individuals, $25 for groups), and have your name published at the Lincoln conference if you wish. Or co-sponsor by holding a prayer service in your locale on the same weekend, or performing spiritual or corporal works of mercy in solidarity with CTA Nebraska. Whatever you decide, please complete and mail the form on page 7.

The conference runs 6-10 PM Friday and 8 AM - 5 PM Saturday at The Nebraska Center in Lincoln. Registration is $35 ($45 after May 1), including lunch. Double rooms at the Center cost $62 (402 472-3435). Or stay in university dorms for $18.50. Get details from CTA Nebraska, 402 489-6368