Fr. Richard Jankowski was born in Poznan, Poland.  After finishing school with a degree in electrical engineering, he decided to pursue his vocation to the priesthood.  Then, at the age of 26, he traveled to the United States to complete his studies for the priesthood at SS Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Orchard Lake, Michigan.  Fr. Richard was ordained a priest in the Diocese of St. Petersburg by Bishop John C. Favalora on December 5, 1992. 

Since being ordained to the priesthood, Fr. Richard has had the opportunity to serve at many parishes including Our Lady Queen of Peace in New Port Richey, Holy Cross Church in St. Petersburg, St. Patrick's Church in Largo and Espiritu Santo in Safety Harbor.  Fr. Richard spent his last six years as pastor of St. Scholastica Church in Lecanto.  Fr. Richard also serves on several diocesan committees, is responsible for the Hernando Deanery and is the school pastor for Notre Dame Catholic School in Spring Hill.