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Pius X Catholic High School lincoln nebraska
Pius X Catholic High School lincoln nebraska

WE ARE PIUS: Fr. Tony Schukei

In this episode of We Are Pius, host Jeremy Eichler welcomes Father Tony Schukei, Cathedral parish priest and Pius X educator, for a candid conversation about his path to the priesthood. Father Tony opens up about growing up in a faithful family, his college years studying landscape architecture, and the surprising moment that sparked his discernment.

You’ll hear:

  • Why exploring a vocation isn’t the same as saying “yes”
  • How silence and surrender led to clarity
  • The joys and challenges of seminary life
  • What it means to bring energy and authenticity to the priesthood
  • Plus, some fun extras—like bonsai trees, biking, and running with state champions!

Whether you’re discerning your own vocation or just love a good story of faith, this episode will inspire you to trust God’s plan—one step at a time.

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Lincoln Pius X Catholic High School
WE ARE PIUS: Fr. Tony Schukei
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Chapters

00:00: Welcome to *We Are Pius* – Meet Father Tony Schukei

00:36: “It’s not Anthony!” – Clearing up the name confusion

01:07: Father Tony or Father Schukei? Nicknames and identity

02:08: Growing up in Norfolk – Family and faith roots

04:04: Catholic school years and early influences

07:05: Role models and priests who inspired him

08:58: “You don’t have to fit a mold” – Authenticity in priesthood

10:09: High school dreams: marriage and architecture

11:40: College life, leadership, and zero signs of priesthood

13:24: Micro-adventures and the emptiness that sparked discernment

15:12: Silent retreat and the roommate’s question: “Have you thought about seminary?”

17:07: Wrestling with God’s will – The parking lot prayer

18:53: Certitude vs. clarity – Trusting the next step

20:13: The call to the vocations director and an unexpected “yes”

23:20: Telling his parents – A providential dinner in David City

25:11: Seminary life: struggle, growth, and brotherhood

27:16: Archbishop Chaput’s wisdom: “Your classmates will form you”

28:05: The Fantastic Four – Ordination class

28:52: Ordination day: surrender and trust

31:13: Family reactions and humor from his sisters

31:33: First assignment: David City and Aquinas High School

33:35: Learning spiritual fatherhood and selflessness

35:57: Transition to Pius: From “Evil Empire” to “Awesome”

38:56: Student faith life and the joy of teaching

40:44: Lightning Round – Saints, Scripture, and prayer intentions

44:15: Advice for discernment: “Exploring isn’t saying yes”

49:32: Closing thoughts and gratitude

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