Jack Van Moorleghem

My name is Jack Van Moorleghem, and I am deeply blessed to call St. Robert Bellarmine my home parish. From the age of six, I felt a strong calling to the priesthood, so much so that I cannot recall a time when I desired any other path. What began as childhood play, celebrating “Mass” with my younger siblings, soon developed into an intense love for the Eucharist and the Church.

Born and raised in Gretna, Nebraska, I was deeply shaped by my family’s commitment to the faith. I attended St. Robert Bellarmine for grade school and later continued my education at Creighton Prep. My early years were profoundly influenced by faith-filled teachers, staff, and priests who guided my intellectual and spiritual growth. At Creighton Prep, I embraced the school’s mission of being a “man for others” through Campus Ministry and Student Council. These experiences not only bolstered my leadership skills but intensified my desire to serve in the figure of the Good Shepherd. 

Having grown up during the pontificate of Pope Francis, I remain inspired by his call for priests to be ‘shepherds living with the smell of the sheep.’ This stark imagery captures the heart of priestly ministry, one who walks closely with others in the journey toward Christ, the Risen Lord and High Priest. I am currently studying Philosophy and Catholic Studies at St. John Vianney College Seminary. Outside of academics and formation, I spend my time reading in the areas of politics and theology, learning languages, and traveling. 

As I continue this journey of discernment and formation, I ask for your prayers for me and for all seminarians worldwide. To those considering the priesthood or religious life, I encourage you not to shy away from God’s call, but rather to ask for the courage to listen to His voice, trusting fully in His providence. Please know of my prayers for all of you in the Archdiocese of Omaha. May we continue to encounter the transformative love of Christ together.

RETURN TO SEMINARIANS

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.