On Wednesday, Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila announced various changes in leadership at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver and the Archdiocese of Denver.
In the following letter sent to all priests and the seminary community, Archbishop Aquila expresses profound gratitude for Father Daniel Leonard's leadership and invites prayers for Father Angel Perez-Lopez, SJV's next rector.
Succeeding Father Perez-Lopez as Vicar for Clergy is Father Matthew Book. Father Israel Perez-Lopez, Father Angel's brother, will succeed him as pastor of St. Cajetan Parish in Denver. Archbishop Aquila also asks for prayers for these priests and communities as they undertake this transition.
Prot. n. AB 2025-0002 A
Dear Members of the St. John Vianney Theological Seminary Community,
I write today to share some important news regarding a change in leadership at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in the Archdiocese of Denver.
First, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Daniel Leonard for his eight years of dedicated service as Rector of the seminary. Under his leadership, 54 men have been ordained to the priesthood, 63 men to the permanent diaconate, and thousands more from around the world have received education in the faith from the Lay Division. Fr. Leonard’s commitment to the formation of clergy and laity has left an indelible mark on our community, and we are profoundly thankful for his service. He has guided many important initiatives throughout his years, including the Monsignor Michael Glenn Recreation Center.
As Fr. Leonard steps down, we are pleased to announce that our current Vicar for Clergy and pastor of St. Cajetan parish, Fr. Angel Perez-Lopez, will be the next Rector of the seminary. Fr. Angel brings with him an exceptional academic record, having published seven books and 18 articles, with his eighth book forthcoming: The Priest as a Man of Prudence. Priestly Formation in the Human Virtues. In addition to publishing, Fr. Angel has been an instructor at our seminaries since 2013, showcasing his deep intellectual engagement with theology and philosophy. Beyond his academic achievements, Fr. Angel has demonstrated a natural ability as a leader of priests in his role as Vicar for Clergy, guiding and supporting his fellow clergy with wisdom, discernment, and compassion.
To dedicate himself fully to his new role as Rector, Fr. Angel will be stepping down from his role as pastor of St. Cajetan’s, effective immediately, and from his role as Vicar for Clergy on July 1st.
I am therefore happy to announce that Fr. Matthew Book has accepted my request to become our Vicar for Clergy. Fr. Matt was ordained in 2010 and has served in numerous roles around the Archdiocese, currently as pastor of Light of the World where he is beloved by his parishioners. Previously he worked in the Chancery as the Archbishop’s priest-secretary, studied in Rome – receiving his degree (STL) in sacramental theology from Mundelein Seminary, and served as a parochial vicar and pastor at several parishes in our archdiocese. He teaches part-time at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary and has twice served as the leader of the Companions of Christ, a fraternal organization of diocesan priests. This diverse background, and success as a pastor, will aid Fr. Book as he serves his brother priests as Vicar for Clergy, effective July 1st.
I am also happy to share that Fr. Israel Perez-Lopez, Fr. Angel’s brother, will succeed him as pastor of St. Cajetan, effective immediately, continuing their legacy of pastoral care and leadership within the parish. Fr. Israel is well-known to the St. Cajetan community, having served as the parochial vicar there for three years, and he welcomes the opportunity to lead the parish as their spiritual father and pastor. Apart from his role as pastor, Fr. Israel is an instructor in our seminaries and a published author.
To facilitate the transition of the seminary rector position, Fathers Leonard and Angel will work together until March 20, when, at the Board of Trustees meeting, we will have a recognition dinner for Father Leonard and the official installation of Father Angel as Rector. Father Leonard will then begin a much-desired sabbatical. There will be more to share regarding these events in future weeks.
I ask for your prayers and support for both Fr. Leonard as he transitions to new endeavors, and Fathers Angel, Book, and Israel as they each take on new roles.
Together, let us remain steadfast in our mission to foster vocations and form disciples who will serve Christ and His Church with devotion and integrity.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Samuel J. Aquila, S.T.L.
Archbishop of Denver
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