Catching Up with Monsignor Gilg
Monsignor James Gilg has been a pillar of the Skutt Catholic community for over 30 years, serving as the school’s first president and a mentor to countless students. Skutt Catholic’s new performing arts center, slated to open in May 2024, was just announced to be named the Monsignor James E. Gilg Performing Arts Center in his honor. We spent some time catching up with Monsignor this month.
What are some of your favorite Skutt Catholic memories?
My favorites are all the “firsts” that came to be as we were establishing the school: the first day of classes; the first National Honor Society inductions; the first “first down” in football competition; the first victories in athletics, the first academic medal in state competition; the first graduation; and the first state championship. I also cherish the memories of the all-school Masses and the other rituals that enhanced the spiritual dimension of the school.
What are some things Skutt Catholic is doing that you love?
The outstanding successes in academics and athletics and the image that Skutt Catholic now has in Omaha and across the State of Nebraska. Everywhere I go people will comment on the superb reputation that Skutt Catholic has in the community. I am also so very pleased that the Catholic identity of the school is so prominent.
What have you been doing in your retirement?
I live at Boys Town and help with all the spiritual activities with the youth and family teachers on the campus. This includes daily Masses, sacramental preparation, prayers before events, and spiritual talks.
What plans do you have for the next few months? Any exciting travel?
I have no specific travel plans for the near future. My last major trip was to Ireland in August of 2022. I would like to return to the Czech Republic where I spent my sabbatical 20 years ago and go on an ocean cruise sometime soon.
Anything you would like to say to Skutt Catholic alumni?
I am immensely proud of Skutt Catholic alumni who are making such a significant contribution to the welfare of the Church and society. It is always a thrill to meet SC alumni in medical and professional fields around the community. And I am always so honored when SC alumni invite me to be part of their weddings and baptisms and other family events. May God send everyone at Skutt Catholic many blessings and graces.
Thank you, Monsignor Gilg, for all the ways you have MADE A DIFFERENCE in the lives of Skutt Catholic alumni!
*Monsignor Gilg is pictured at Angel Flight 2023 with several of the alumni in attendance.
Alumni Spotlight content provided by Laura Larson ’02, SC Director of Alumni Relations