After growing up on a farm east of St. Joseph in a family of 13, Father Leo Buhman surprised his family by entering Conception Abbey at age 21. The inspiration came to him suddenly, and he has never looked back, grateful and motivated by the opportunities and education.

Fr. Leo moved to Living Community in September 2005, and has blessed the community with his presence as a resident, neighbor, friend, and priest. From his new home, he can visit his family, continue with his regular golf game when weather allows, and provide spiritual support and regular Mass. He recently had to give up bowling until he completes some knee therapy.

After time away from the area in St. Louis, Tarkio, Maryville, Shelbina, Hannibal, and Macon, Fr. Leo has been enjoying life in St. Joseph, and filling in at Our Lady of Guadaloupe on weekdays. He originally looked into Living Community with his family because he was tired of cooking and living in his house alone.

Just like the other residents who stay busy and connected, Fr. Leo enjoys having the freedom Living Community provides, and feels he absolutely made the right decision. Fr. Leo enjoys the residents, food, service, and fellowship. Longevity runs through the Buhman family, with eleven of the thirteen siblings still alive, so Fr. Leo keeps busy staying close to his three sisters and seven brothers. He looks forward to a cozy and busy winter without any of the burdens of keeping up his house, and invites anyone to join him for Mass on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. or Saturdays at 4 p.m.