The Diocese of Raleigh celebrated a Mass of Candidacy at St. Peter Catholic Church in Greenville Aug. 7.
Keegan Moloney, a student at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton Beach, FL, was called forward during Mass to publicly state his intention to receive the sacrament of Holy Orders and affirm to Bishop Luis Zarama and the congregation his intent to complete preparation for ministry within the Church.
During his homily, Bishop Luis remarked that the occasion of this Mass was an example of God’s plan for us; that we must find the work of God’s hands even in the most unexpected circumstances.
The annual Mass typically occurs when all seminarians are returning from their summer assignments and preparing to be sent off for fall studies. This year, the Mass was delayed to accommodate the vigil and funeral Mass for Monsignor Jeffrey Ingham. However, the change in both date and location presented the opportunity for the event to be held in Keegan’s home parish, where family and friends could show their support.
Bishop Luis acknowledged the large congregation assembled and addressed Keegan and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Moloney, who also presented the gifts during Mass.
“It is a joy to be with you and with all these people to accompany you on this journey and to help God’s dreams for you be realized and as you are formed to become a priest of the diocese, God willing,” Bishop Luis said.
Following the Mass, the parish hosted a reception, where parishioners could share food and fellowship and express their personal support for Keegan on the journey of his vocation.
Several priests were also in attendance including Father Michael Schuetz, director of vocations; Father Jim Magee, pastor of St. Peter Church; Father Bill John Acosta, pastor of St. Bernadette in Fuquay-Varina; Father Ross Williams, parochial vicar at St Bernadette; Father Lourdaraj Alapaty, parochial vicar at St. Michael the Archangel in Cary; Father Nick Cottrill, pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Rocky Mount; and Father John Vedanayagam, M.S.F.S., parochial vicar at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral.
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