Pastoral Update

April 3, 2025

Important Announcement From Father Dan:

I write to you today to share the news that I am receiving a new parish assignment.

I have been profoundly blessed to have served as the Pastor of St. Leonard Parish for the past 13 years. A typical pastor’s time at a parish is 12 years. I have therefore already gone beyond the normal time frame. 

My time as Pastor of St. Leonard will conclude on Sunday, April 27. Father John Cella will serve as the temporary Administrator of the parish from April 28 until June 16. A new permanent pastor (soon to be named) will begin on June 17.

Many different factors go into a decision such as this, including the needs of each parish across the Archdiocese, the availability of priests, as well as my own situation and my doctor’s recommendations. Taking all of this into account, my new assignment will be as an Associate Pastor at a parish that will be named soon.

I have many emotions about this. St. Leonard has become like family to me. I have watched children grow into adults. I have watched your faith being put into action in marvelous ways. I have been able to celebrate major life events with you. It’s very hard to say goodbye because I love the people of St. Leonard Parish. I thank you with all my heart.

While change is difficult, it is also fruitful. As we are about to celebrate Holy Week, we are reminded that throughout our lives we must die to one thing in order to rise to something new. 

That Paschal Mystery of dying and rising is the constant pattern of our spiritual journey. I am fully confident that God will bring great graces out of this transition.  Let us move ahead with great trust in God and a continual desire to surrender our wills to God’s will.

I am grateful to Fr. John Cella, not only for taking Administrative charge of the parish after I leave, but also for all of his kindness and friendship over the past 13 years. Fr. John is a marvelous gift to our parish! St. Leonard Parish will be in good hands!

I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to our trustees, deacons, and parish staff. It has been a joy and an honor to have served with them. Daily I see their commitment, professionalism, and dedication to serving the people of our parish.  They do it because they love the Lord.

Please keep me in your prayers and know that I daily pray for you.

In Christ,

Fr. Dan Janasik