Kevin T. Mulligan

Class: II Theology

 

What schools have you attended?  St. Helena School (Blue Bell), Bishop Kenrick HS, Norristown; Slippery Rock (PA) State College.

 

When did you enter the seminary?  August 2010.

 

What/ Who influenced your decision to enter the seminary?  God had a plan for me in leading me to work for the Archdiocese Office for Communications. Three years later, my decision became clear to me during private discernment after months of prayer and Holy Hours with the Lord at my parish, Visitation BVM, Trooper. I was greatly influenced by my many priest/Bishop friends -- all of whom are truly happy -- with three special friends, Bishop Robert Maginnis, Rev. Msgr Ralph Chieffo (St. Mary Magdalen pastor) and Rev. Edward Kelly (Visitation BVM, my parish), as guiding spiritual forces throughout my discernment; and my pastor, Rev. Msgr Thomas Murray, offering support where needed.

 

Why do you want to be a priest?  For many reasons, most notably because God has personally invited me to be one. Having heeded His call, I now look forward to the day when I can bring communities closer to the Eucharist; rekindle the sacraments in their prayer lives; connect with all ages; minister to the less fortunate and the sick; energize our youth to keep Christ in their lives; spread the Gospel and bring the once-faithful back to the Catholic Church, using the many gifts given me by God.
 
What did your family and friends think about your decision to enter the
seminary?  Telling them was a very emotional time, with the expressions of support and prayers overwhelming and unforgettable. Surprisingly, no one passed out when I told them !

 

How often do you pray?  Many times daily, including Mass, before classes, at in private.

 

What do you do for fun?  Golf, exercise, go for a walk/jog or bike ride, attend sporting events, go sightseeing or to a cultural event/concert.

 

What is it like to live in a seminary?  It is a wonderful life in community with a new family, sharing experiences, caring for each other, all of it centered around prayer and priestly formation. I love it here at Blessed John XXIII National Seminary!

 

What is the best part of the seminary for you?  Sharing a spiritual life and all that involves with men God has called here for the same reason. The bond is a special one and will continue to be.

 

What is the hardest part of the seminary for you?  It is different at my age than it might be for a young man right out of college. The transition back to the classroom and living in a dormitory room instead of my own house was an adjustment, but one I was well-prepared for. I honestly don't have a "hardest" part of the seminary.

 

Family Information: How big is your family?  Parents, Joseph and Betty Mulligan, five sisters and a brother. I am the second oldest in the family. I also have five nephews, four nieces. 

 

WHAT advice would you give to a young man thinking about the priesthood? "Invest the time in prayer, more specifically in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, seeking the Lord's and the Blessed Virgin's assistance; express your feelings to a priest or Bishop you can confide in; and take advantage of opportunities offered by St. Charles Seminary to visit, learn and seek guidance. Likewise if a delayed vocation at an older age, which led me to Blessed John XXIII National Seminary."