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Discover the Manchester United athlete transformation into a monk

Experienced footballer, aged 47, had a distinguished career with Norwich City, featuring in over 150 matches, and represented Northern Ireland internationally, earning 27 caps.

Manchester United athlete transforms into a monk
Manchester United athlete transforms into a monk

Discover the Manchester United athlete transformation into a monk

Former Footballer Philip Mulryne Finds Peace as a Dominican Monk

Philip Mulryne, a 47-year-old former professional footballer, is known for his time at Norwich City and representing Northern Ireland. However, his life took an unexpected turn when he found himself dissatisfied with his seemingly successful career and lifestyle.

In his prime, Mulryne was a midfielder who played for Manchester United and over 150 games for Norwich City. He also represented Northern Ireland in 27 international games. Yet, despite earning up to £500,000 per year and living a luxurious lifestyle, he felt miserable inside. This realization came during his last season at Norwich when he lost his enjoyment for playing football.

At the age of 31, Mulryne began studying for the priesthood in 2009. Initially, he considered becoming a secular priest, but later felt called to religious life and joined the Dominican Order as a friar. He rediscovered peace and purpose through this vocation, marking a stark contrast from his former life of wealth, fame, and luxury.

Mulryne started volunteering at homeless shelters after retiring from football. His spiritual journey led him to Rome, where he studied philosophy, and later Belfast, where he studied theology. In 2012, he entered the Dominican novitiate in Cork. He was ordained as a priest in 2017 and now serves as novice master at St Mary's Priory in Cork.

Mulryne's football career may not have been marked by immense success, but he was loved by the fans at Norwich City. His time at Old Trafford was brief, with only one Premier League appearance under Sir Alex Ferguson. However, his story serves as a reminder that happiness and fulfillment often lie beyond the confines of wealth and fame.

References:

  1. BBC Sport
  2. The Guardian
  3. The Irish Times

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