Archbishop George J. Lucas and Zach Eischeid, following Eischeid’s transitional diaconate ordination Mass. ROBERT ERVIN

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Step to ordained ministry not “just a formality”

Zachary Eischeid took a step into ordained ministry surrounded by family, friends, priests, deacons, fellow seminarians, Archbishop George J. Lucas and Archbishop Emeritus Elden Francis Curtiss.

The Elgin native was ordained a transitional deacon for the Archdiocese of Omaha at St. Cecilia Cathedral on May 26, followed by a reception in the Monsignor Graham Building. The Mass was livestreamed. Video can be found here.

In his homily, Archbishop Lucas told Eischeid that becoming a deacon is “not just a formality, not just a step that you have to take so that eventually you can become a priest, but really, this is the beginning of your configuration to Jesus Christ, our Savior and Priest, in Holy Orders.”

Speaking to Zach, Archbishop Lucas concluded his homily with a blessing: “May the Lord, who came to serve, accompany you, may Mary protect you and may the saints intercede for you, now as you begin your public ministry as a deacon and for years and years to come.”

Eischeid will spend the summer at Sacred Heart Parish in Norfolk and return to Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis in the fall. As a transitional deacon, he will proclaim the Gospel and preach at Masses, distribute Holy Communion, preside at baptisms and wake services, and perform other parish duties.

Please enjoy additional pictures from the Mass and celebration here.

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