By Tony DeGol
Proclaim!
Huge and big are two words Monsignor David Lockard uses to describe his new retirement abode.
“It’s spacious, but it has a lot of character, a lot of woodwork, and it’s very private here and very peaceful,” added Father Leonard Voytek, who resides at the same location.
The two senior priests even have a “mascot” where they are living – a groundhog who visits the grounds regularly.
Monsignor Lockard and Father Voytek are the first two residents of a new independent living residence for retired diocesan priests who do not need physical assistance or skilled medical care.
When St. Leonard’s personal care home in Hollidaysburg ceased operations about two years ago, the diocese acquired the property.
Initial modifications were made to accommodate the needs of priests who opt to reside there after they retire from active ministry.
Monsignor Lockard and Father Voytek snagged two of the suites available, and structural changes will be made to create more suites in the near future.
The new residents, along with several other priests of the diocese, were among those on hand when Bishop Mark blessed the new residence on August 21.
“For many years, St. Leonard’s Home has been a place for hospitality and comfort for the elderly,” stated the Bishop in his prayer of blessing. “We pray that now and into the future that St. Leonard’s Home will serve the needs of the retired priests of our diocese.”
Bishop Mark asked the Lord to allow the residence to be a sign of love for His priests.
“May those who dwell here now and in the future be blessed with health, happiness, and peace,” he added.
St. Leonard’s houses a beautiful chapel where the priests can celebrate Mass or engage in private prayer.
There are also common areas for dining and recreation and a sprawling porch with beautiful views.
Maintenance and meal service is also provided to the residents, along with an on-site staff person.
“When priests move in, they’re ready to go,” assured Nick Iachini, Diocesan Director of Facilities. “They don’t have to worry about anything.”
St. Leonard’s Home is just part of the diocese’s commitment to easing priests’ transition to retirement and assuring that their needs are being met after their many years of faithful service.
“They no longer need to worry about living somewhere outside of a rectory,” Iachini explained. “We have everything covered for them including a committee that will help them move to this location, and help them with health benefits, and if they get to the point where they need assisted living, we then have team members to take them from this location to that assisted living area they decide to go to.”
Both Monsignor Lockard and Father Voytek expressed their gratitude.
“St. Leonard’s is obviously nice, but it’s also quite affordable thanks to the diocese and the people, so thank you, people, for making this affordable for us,” Monsignor said.
“You’re not alone, and that’s what makes me feel good,” Father Voytek noted. “We’re surrounded by people who care, and that really means a lot.”
Editor’s Note: Watch more of this story on Proclaim! TV on September 1 at 10:30 a.m. on WATM ABC 23
[Top Photo: Bishop Mark, Monsignor David Lockard (center), and Father Leonard Votyek stand in the main foyer at St. Leonard’s Home.]
