Surfing Padre" Honored for Blessing of the Waves

Father Christian Mondor (1925-2018)

by Chris MacDonald
Writer/Photographer, HB Ambassador/The Local News Columnist

Huntington Beach, CA--Father Christian Mondor, "the Surfing Padre," was honored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange recently for his passionate role in helping bring together surfers and others of all faiths to show their spiritual appreciation of the ocean at the annual "Blessing of the Waves."

The modest 87-year-old friar from Sts. Simon and Jude Church, has helped the Diocese and Greater HB Interfaith Council grow the increasingly popular Blessing, which brings a real appreciation of different religions and the ocean as well as the need to preserve it for future generations.

The jovial Vicar Emeritus, who received a four foot surfboard with the Blessings insignia, has worked with the Diocese, Council, HB Longboard Crew, HB City Council and staff, HB International Surfing Museum, Lions Club and others to make it happen.

"Its a fabulous event and Father Christian is a fabulous man. Everyone looks up to him and is inspired by his enthusiasm," said former mayor and current City Councilmember Joe Carchio, who once awarded "the Surfing Padre" the key to the city.

"He and his friends have done so much to attract young people, surfers and others dedicated to the environment to become involved in the Blessing," said Shirl Giacomi, Chancellor of the Diocese that started the celebration in the Surf City's surf five years ago. "Its so festive. There's so much to see, hear and learn at the ceremonies. My granddaughters were in absolute awe at the last one. Father Christian is a true treasure and we wanted to honor him."

"I'm humbled and receive this honor on behalf of all the people who make this special Blessing possible," said Father Christian, who began surfing 17 years ago at 70, and has a real appreciation for the ocean.

"Surfing has a spiritual side, it's a time of quiet contemplation," he said. "The time between the waves is a wonderful time to pray and be thankful. As you rise and fall with the swells, there's a real beauty and peacefulness to it. It's just a terrific feeling."

The annual Blessing of the Waves features pastors, priests, rabbis, immams and other religious leaders as well as cultural music. It takes place at Pier Plaza, just north of the HB Pier, then continues on to the beach and into the ocean. Watch for the Diocese, City and Interfaith Council and media to announce this year's date.