Monsignor Edward J. Lynch, 77, was baptized nine days after his birth in his home parish of Immaculate Conception, Towson.
The Baltimore native and Loyola College of Maryland graduate was ordained 50 years ago in 1957. The first parish he served was the former Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Woodlawn (now St. Gabriel); he was then assigned to St. John the Evangelist, Severna Park, as associate pastor.
In 1969, Monsignor Lynch had the good fortune to return to his childhood parish where he remained until 1974. In addition to regular priestly duties, he was the high school athletic director and school counselor.
“It was all part of our parish life,” he said.
To form a new parish in Parkton, Monsignor Lynch was sent into the countryside of northern Baltimore County to Our Lady of Grace where he served almost 10 years before returning to Immaculate in 1983. He remained there as pastor until his 2000 retirement.
The priest, who resides at Mercy Ridge, is active still at Immaculate where he presides over Monday morning 6:30 a.m. Masses. He also assists at St. Mark, Fallston.
“I am very happy as a priest,” remarked the monsignor. “I can’t see myself as anything other than a priest. To be there, say mass, conduct other services, prepare them (people) for marriage or when they die, being with the family – all of those things are very wonderful.”