Fr. Leo Ortega

Born: Philippines.
Education: Manila Science High School, Philippines; University of the Philippines (B.S. in occupational therapy); University of Southern California (M.A. in occupational therapy).

Prior occupation: Occupational therapist.
Home parish: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Pasadena.
Transitional Diaconate: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
First Masses as priest: June 1, 5 p.m., Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary; June 8, 5 p.m., St. John of God, Norwalk.
First Assignment: St. Thomas the Apostle, Los Angeles.

"I found the seeds in my vocation in my work among people with disabilities. As an occupational therapist, I had the privilege of working with people from all backgrounds --- from Hollywood directors and actors to CEOs, from undocumented immigrants to gang members. I came to realize that regardless of backgrounds, people are essentially good; we all share a deep hunger to be loved and our needs ministered to. I came to appreciate the 'holiness' of my work in helping rehabilitate people to physical wholeness, yet I never was able to touch the deepest hunger and brokenness of their souls. That is the privileged role of the priest by the nature and exercise of his office. With this realization I entertained the possibility that I might have a calling to the priesthood."