Growing up, my parents were in the Air Force, so I lived in many parts of America. In 2013, we settled in Omaha, where I started attending St. Gerald’s in third grade. I loved playing games outside, watching movies, and being outdoors. St Gerald’s school and church provided a great foundation for me to start building my faith.
In 7th grade, I experienced several very powerful spiritual encounters, which led me to begin to discern the possibility of priesthood. At the time, I was unsure about what my future would hold. For High school, I went to Skutt Catholic High School, which was incredible for my growth. I was on the cross country and track team and played drums for show choir and marching band. One of the best parts of high school was the opportunity to be in Guardians, the male prayer group at Skutt. This group helped me hold on to my faith in high school and grow in it.
Throughout high school, I wrestled with God’s call for me and tried to convince myself that I, not God, knew what was best for me. But no matter how far I strayed, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, never gave up on His pursuit of my heart. I finally accepted that God, my creator, knows best about what will make me happy.
As I am formed at seminary, I hope to be able to let God light my heart ablaze with the love of Jesus and to be able to show everyone I meet this love. I am currently majoring in Philosophy and Catholic Studies at St. John Vianney College Seminary.
My advice to anyone discerning their vocation is to commit daily to growing into the best version of yourself and not be afraid to surrender to God’s will. He made our hearts, and He knows what will make us the happiest.
Fun Facts: I am an Eagle Scout, have been to the Vatican three times, and have run a 5-minute mile.
Hey! I’m Zach Eischeid. I grew up in Elgin, Nebraska and belong to the Saint Boniface Parish. I attended Saint Boniface Elementary and graduated from Pope John XXIII Central Catholic High School. Saint Boniface Parish is a great place to learn about the Faith with our schools and to see so many parishioners helping each other and our parish in a myriad of ways.
My discernment has been around for as long as I can remember. Since I was a toddler, the priesthood always amazed me. However, around junior high, I kept pushing it to the back of my mind because I didn’t want to be labeled as that “extra-religious guy.” After graduating, I decided to attend Benedictine College to major in Theology. Towards the end of my first year at Benedictine, while at my sister’s wedding dance, I oddly had a strong feeling about seminary. A month later, I attended the priest ordination while teaching Totus Tuus, and started weeping during the procession in the cathedral. This sign was big encouragement in finally giving my future in God’s hands. I am currently at Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis and have made many fraternal friendships, as we are all on the same journey of striving to be what God wants us to be.
For all those with even an inkling about entering seminary, I encourage you to be open to it. Pray about it, frequent the sacraments, and remember: “You were not made for comfort. You were made for greatness.” And remember, every priest and seminarian has gone through what you are going through.
In my down time, I like playing any sport, especially basketball and baseball, jamming on the ukulele, listening to Christian rap, watching Nebraska football, and combating heresy.
