Fr. Leo Patalinghug

NEW ULM — Few Catholic priests have led a life as fascinating as Fr. Leo Patalinghug.

He is a former break-dance choreographer, a third degree Black Belt Martial Arts Instructor, radio personality and an acclaimed TV Chef.

Area residents will have a chance to hear his life story in person.

At 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 7, Fr. Leo will visits St. Mary’s Catholic Church and share his life story and wisdom.

Fr. Leo was born in the Philippines but was raised in Baltimore, MD where he is currently based. He gained, attention for founding the Plating Grace movement, which is an international apostolate designed to strengthen families and relationships through God’s gift of a family meal. Through his cooking show, Fr. Leo teaches families the tools they need to make simple recipes.

Fr. Leo has published three books “Grace Before Meals,” “Epic Food Fight,” and “Spicing Up Married Life.” He is also hosted “Savoring Our Faith” on The Eternal World Television Network (EWTN).

Fr. Leo is internationally known and is frequently booked on speaking tours. It was with great luck St. Mary’s was able to schedule him for a visit.

Church volunteer Kathy Sonnek said a group of eight members of the congregation believed Fr. Leo was an engaging speaker and reached out to him to see if he was available for a visit.

As it turns out, there was time in his busy schedule to stop into New Ulm.

Fr. Leo is schedule to speak from 7 p.m. to 8: 15 p.m. this Wednesday. The public is invited to hear this Renaissance man share his life story.