Boys Town was founded in 1917 by Father Edward J. Flanagan, a young, idealistic Irish-American priest. From the beginning, Father Flanagan was driven by his deep and abiding faith to save young homeless boys from the grim fate they typically faced more than a century ago.
Today, Father Flanagan’s spirit and spirituality still flow through Boys Town’s many campuses.
And although Boys Town is not a religious institution, Father Flanagan’s faith-driven vision still guides us.
Help lost children find faith and their God-given potential.
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Faith…of All Kinds
Father Flanagan was a progressive and forward-thinking man, especially for the time in which he lived. He believed that all children deserved a loving home and a chance to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. He also believed a key element in helping children succeed was having them practice their faith and pray, although how they did that was up to them.
Today, as it has through more than 100 years of service, Boys Town accepts and cares for boys and girls of all faiths…and those of no faith.
The basic tenet of most faiths is love. Loving others is critical because we’re all in this together.
Sadly, many youth who come to Boys Town haven’t experienced love, so it must be taught and practiced. Self-compassion and love of self are important, too. Taking care of one’s physical, mental and spiritual needs is critical to dealing with and overcoming life’s many obstacles.
Sharing a Spiritual Guide
Father Steven Boes, Boys Town’s current President and National Executive Director and the spiritual guide for our kids and families, shares how they and others can nurture and grow their spiritual lives through his reflections and writings on various topics. We hope these provide you with some practical insights, strength and hope on whatever spiritual path you have chosen.
