'THE LORD WAS CALLING ME'.

Byline: Holly Andres Staff Writer

NORTHRIDGE - With an outgoing personality, rock-solid faith and visionary planning, Monsignor Peter C. Moran has been credited with revitalizing and strengthening the parish of Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church.

Moran will celebrate the 40th anniversary of his ordination this month at St. Patrick's Seminary in Carlow, Ireland.

``As a teen, I was following the same education as the other students; I had two brothers who had gone on to become priests,'' said Moran, the youngest of 14, remembering his decision to study for the priesthood after high school.

Banking, police work or following other brothers into the electrical business were careers that Moran considered.

``I gave it some thought and went to seminary,'' he said. ``It was a difficult time, 1965, to be ordained because of the changes from Vatican II. Many parishioners were not ready for change. But I was very convinced the Lord was calling me and that he was with me.

``The priesthood is a wonderful and rewarding vocation because you're able to help, support and comfort people.''

Ask Moran his strong points, and he quickly answers, ``I hit a good golf ball.''

That sense of humor has endeared him over the years as an associate pastor at parishes in Gardena, La Puente, Pomona and Altadena. He also served at St. Robert Bellarmine Roman Catholic Church in Burbank. His first posting as senior pastor, however, came at his present parish in October 1983.

``I love people - that is my forte, my great gift,'' Moran said. ``Building a Christian community is important, and I think of myself as a community builder. I hope I've been a model for what it means to be a good Christian and a follower of Christ - compassionate, caring and a good human being.''

The parish has benefited from Moran's long-term planning. Among many projects Moran is proud of is setting up an endowment program for needy children to receive a Catholic education at the church school. He also started the well-attended parish festival held every October that benefits the school.

``He really revitalized the parish,'' said former parish administrator Linda Mueller, who worked with Moran for eight years. ``The ministries expanded because he inspired people to go out and participate. He is so dedicated, so responsible, so 'there' to his parish.

``I saw his compassion for the poor. He saw Christ in everyone. I learned that from him and also how important your prayer life is. He is kind, loving and fun.''

Preaching, even after the experience of 40 years, is still a challenge, Moran said thoughtfully. Relationships and church doctrines are the evergreen and most frequently asked questions of Moran.

``I've always been impressed with his ability to take the time to talk and say hello to everyone,'' said Jim O'Donnell, a parish member since 1969. ``He has a real sense and understanding of people. He knows when they need help.

``He's a great storyteller. His homilies are very straightforward, understandable and practical. He sees how everyone is special, even though it may not be obvious, in their own way. That's made me realize that we can all do the same.''

Monsignor Peter C. Moran will lead the Mass at 5:30 p.m. today, 5:30 p.m. Sunday and at noon on June 26 at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church, 18405 Superior St., Northridge. Call [phone].

Holly Andres, [phone]

holly.andres(at)dailynews.com

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Irish-born Monsignor Peter Moran, who has been the pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church since 1983, is celebrating his 40th year at a priest.

Gus Ruelas/Staff Photographer