Rosemont College is proud to celebrate one of its own, as Kathleen Murray, Class of 1983, has been awarded a highly competitive Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Grant. This grant of $59,830 is one of only 200 given nationally this year.
This transformative grant will support Rev. Kathleen Murray’s personal and spiritual sabbatical pilgrimage titled “Closing the Gap Between Religion and Life: The Conversation I Never Had.”
The journey is both deeply personal and profoundly historical. Rev. Murray will retrace the World War II path of her late father, Staff Sergeant Joseph A. Murray of the 482nd Anti Aircraft Artillery Battalion. Starting in England, she will follow his footsteps through France and Normandy, into Belgium and Luxembourg, and finally into Germany. Key stops include the historic Ludendorff Bridge at Remagen, the Flossenbürg concentration camp, Nuremberg, and Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic.
A Father’s Story Comes Full Circle
During the pilgrimage, Rev. Murray will carry a cherished letter her father left behind. In it, he described how 88mm shells fell directly around him without causing injury. “He wasn’t sure how he survived,” she shared. Moreover, this sacred journey blends grief, gratitude, and spiritual renewal.
This field is now the hockey firms near present day Heffernan.
Kathleen Murray’s Enduring Rosemont Roots
Rev. Kathleen Murray’s connection to Rosemont runs deep. Her great aunt, Sister Eleanor Murray, SHCJ, taught art at Rosemont College. Also, the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus played a pivotal role in shaping her life and vocation. From her undergraduate years in the early 1980’s to today, Rosemont’s values of compassion, justice, and service continue to guide her ministry.
Now serving as an Episcopal Priest and Rector of Historic Beckford Parish in Virginia, Rev. Murray credits Rosemont and the Sisters with preparing her for a life of meaningful leadership and pastoral care. “Rosemont helped form who I am,” she says with gratitude.
Why This Grant Matters for Kathleen & Beyond
The Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Grant is designed to provide clergy with time for rest, reflection, and renewal. Rev. Murray will fully embrace this during her once in a lifetime pilgrimage. Her story highlights the lasting impact of a Rosemont education: turning personal history into a powerful ministry.
Rosemont invites the entire alumni community to celebrate this extraordinary achievement. Whether you knew Kathleen Murray as a fellow Raven or are inspired by her journey, her story reminds us all of the power of faith, family, and fearless exploration.
The Rosemont Experience
At Rosemont, we believe that no matter what discipline you study, effective communication and problem solving are cornerstones to success. That’s why students take classes across multiple disciplines—to learn to approach complex situations from multiple angles. We also recognize the importance of real world experience in preparing you for a career. In fact, every student engages in at least one internship, volunteer effort, or service learning opportunity.
In the Heart of Suburban Philadelphia's Iconic Main Line
- Beautiful 58 acre Main Line campus located in serene suburban Philadelphia.
- Current students have access to world class advanced degree programs through exclusive partnerships.
- Rooted in Catholicism we welcome all faiths and beliefs.
- Coveted 11:1 student to faculty ratio providing an unparalleled educational experience.
- An average class size of 13 ensures a high caliber, personalized education.
