Fr. Bernard Lebiedz

Opelousas -  Father Bernard “Bernie” Lebiedz, OSB was born December 22, 1923 in Manchester, Connecticut and died at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Nursing Home in Opelousas, Louisiana on October 2, 2022. A gentle man and caring priest all of his life, it was most fitting that he enter heaven on the feast of the holy angels.

He attended St. Patterson Grammar School and Central High School in New Jersey. Immediately following his early education, he enlisted in the Navy and served for 6 years. Following his tenure in the Navy, he attended Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey and then entered the seminary. After his ordination on May 23, 1959, he served for 20 years in the Diocese of Patterson, New Jersey as assistant pastor in 5 parishes. In 1980 he went to Pecos, New Mexico to attend the School for Spiritual Directors. During that time, he was attracted to the Benedictine Community in that area and eventually transferred to the Benedictine community on August 15, 1982. Following his transfer, he served in Pecos, New Mexico for many years.

During his 60 plus years of priestly ministry, he ministered in many capacities and also served as a spiritual director, and leader of retreats and missions in various places.

After his years in Pecos, New Mexico, he moved to the Benedictine Monastery in Plaisance, Louisiana in January 2004. He was a frequent visitor and weekly celebrant at mass for the residents at C’est la Vie apartments. His sense of humor and story-telling ability brightened the lives of all who encountered him. Due to declining health, he became a resident of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Nursing Home in 2016.

We will miss his kind and gentle presence at the nursing home. He was often heard in the halls saying his breviary prayers, praying the rosary, and singing his favorite hymns.

He frequently extended a blessing to the staff, residents, and family members. Always grateful for each and every service rendered to him, we are most appreciative for the time he shared with us. His kind and gentle spirit will long be remembered. May the angels lovingly lead him into paradise.

A memorial mass will be celebrated for him at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Nursing Home and he will be buried in Pecos, New Mexico.

Words of Comfort for the family may be expressed at www.sibillefuneralhomes.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas.