Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

The Lincoln Diocese recently celebrated a unique milestone with the ordination of Father Isaac Wahlmeier, marking the sixth set of brothers to become priests within the diocese. This rare occurrence highlights families where multiple siblings have embraced the priesthood.

Father Isaac Wahlmeier joins his brother, Father Joseph Wahlmeier, who was ordained in 2020. Other sets of brothers include Fathers Matthew and Jeffrey Eickhoff, ordained in 1989 and 1995; Fathers Andrew and Christopher Schwenka, ordained in 2019 and 2022; Monsignor Daniel and Fathers Mark and Leo Seiker, ordained in 1987, 1984, and 1991; Fathers Evan and Dominic Winter, ordained in 2016 and 2022; and Fathers Matthew and Michael Zimmer, ordained in 2011 and 2012.

Father Isaac expressed that seeing his brother begin his journey to priesthood influenced his own decision. He shared how visiting Father Joseph at St. Gregory the Great Seminary brought clarity to his vocation. "Where you see the witness of one person," he said, "it’s an instrument for God to increase the trust in your own life."

Father Joseph recalled being surprised yet understanding when he learned about Isaac's plans to enter seminary while studying in Rome. "It kind of felt like my own vocation," he noted.

Patrick and Debbie Wahlmeier are parents to these two priests among their fifteen children. Reflecting on her sons' vocations, Debbie stated she prayed for God's plan for each child: “May God’s will be done.”

Debbie also spoke about her wedding dress lace included in Father Isaac's ordination attire as a symbol of parental presence at every Mass he celebrates.

The Eickhoff brothers shared similar experiences growing up with strong family involvement in church activities at Holy Cross Parish in Omaha. They continue this tradition through their unique music and juggling act performed across diocesan schools.

Reflecting on their priestly journeys together, Father Matthew said they enjoy sharing family Catholic celebrations such as sacraments with each other.

Father Joseph highlighted the camaraderie among priests within their diocese: “There’s definitely a brotherhood... so to join that with a brother priest I think makes it all the more special.”