For Griffin Mahoney, ministry at Mississippi State University’s Cowbell Catholic was a natural step. Involved from the beginning of his time at Mississippi State, he immediately felt at home. The friendships, faith formation and strong community made a lasting impact on him. When the opportunity arose to serve as interim campus minister, he gladly stepped in, seeing it as a way to give back to the ministry that had shaped him so deeply.

“I had a gap semester, and Father Jason (Johnston) asked if I would be interested in the role while they searched for a full-time minister,” Mahoney shared. “It allows me to serve the parish and the students and contribute to it being a haven for Catholic students.”

For Mahoney, the role is about serving the Lord and contributing to the church. He sees ministry as a daily call to trust in God’s plan and remain open to His will.
“I must always ask for the Holy Spirit to grant me wisdom and help me surrender all things to His greater glory,” he explained. “I feel the Lord answering that prayer when the students love our events, or they appreciate my advice.”
Mahoney credits his first campus minister, Joe Terbrack, as an inspiration.

“Joe was a role model for me, always offering guidance. When he left, we gave him a St. Joseph Challenge Coin, a tradition for Men’s Campus Ministry leaders. Seeing his joy in that moment was incredibly moving.”

Encouragement also comes from students he has mentored.
“One student told me that reaching out to him and inviting him to coffee meant so much that he now does the same for other new students. His affirmation reminds me of the incredible power an invitation can be, and being present to others.”

Mahoney is grateful for those who support the Catholic Service Appeal.

“Your sacrifices help us build our Campus Ministry program and deepen our relationship with God. Being a part of Campus Ministry has formed me into a man of Christ, a man of the church – a man for others. Even the smallest sacrifice will do – the Lord will do the rest.”