Parroquia de San Leandro

Fifty years ago, a simple storefront on Calle Escalona hosted a momentous occasion. It was the first Eucharist celebrated by the newly formed Parroquia de San Leandro. Today, we stand before the Parroquia de San Leandro, a testament to the enduring spirit of this community. The church we see now, at Calle Escalona 59, opened its doors in 1978. It replaced that humble storefront, becoming a permanent home for the growing congregation. The official inauguration took place on November 13, 1978, a date significant as the feast day of San Leandro himself. Cardinal Vicente Enrique y Tarancón presided over the ceremony, marking a key moment in the Parroquia de San Leandro’s history. The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, or OMI, have been integral to the Parroquia de San Leandro since its inception. They were entrusted with the parish by Archbishop Casimiro Morcillo in 1965. Father Severino Díez Fontecha became the first curate, leading the first Eucharist in 1966. The Oblates chose this location due to its proximity to their seminary in Pozuelo. The Parroquia de San Leandro wasn’t just a place of worship. It became a hub for the burgeoning community of Aluche, offering religious classes to local schools and nurturing a vibrant youth ministry. This dedication to young people bore fruit, fostering vocations for both the Missionary Oblates and the Oblate Missionaries of Mary Immaculate. Over the years, the Parroquia de San Leandro has seen its share of renovations. In 1999, the church and parish house underwent extensive repairs. The roof, walls, and heating system were all updated, ensuring the Parroquia de San Leandro could continue to serve its community. The presbytery was also renovated, enhancing the beauty of the church’s interior. Today, the Parroquia de San Leandro continues to thrive, serving a population of around 10,000 people in Aluche. From pre-baptismal classes to youth groups, the Oblates continue their work, offering pastoral care and liturgical services to people of all ages. They also maintain a strong focus on missionary projects, undertaking a new one each year. The Parroquia de San Leandro stands as a symbol of faith and community, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Oblates and the vibrant spirit of Aluche.