Although the Fulcrum Ambassador Program suspended site visits due to COVID-19, our ambassadors are eager to share their stories and personal reflections about their visits to our incredible Catholic schools.
St. John Catholic School, Seattle
by Frank Feeman
Our ambassador site visit at St. John Catholic School in Seattle was at a familiar location for me. My wife, DeAnn, and I have seven children, all of whom are graduates of St. John and Bishop Blanchet High School. Our three grandchildren, Maddy, Parker, and Eli are students at St. John now. They will be joined by Lily in a few years and, as our family grows, a few more.
We began our day at Mass with the students and faculty. The church was full and we had front pew seats! It was wonderful to see the active participation of the students in the Mass—from the youngest to the oldest. The pastor, Father Crispin, loves the school and the students, and they love being with him at Mass. The students did the readings, the prayers of the faithful, and led the music portions of the Mass.
Later, during our round table discussion, one of the eighth-grade students spoke beautifully about the value of humility and related his comments to the Gospel reading for the day.
My fellow ambassadors and I were able to witness firsthand the strong academics; great relationships of the families, teachers, and leaders; and the great students at St. John. I will always be grateful for the strong foundation in our faith that the teachers and parish staff have instilled in our children and are instilling in our grandchildren.
St. John is a very special place for me and my family. In my role at Fulcrum and the archdiocese, I have visited many of our schools. Just as St. John is a special place, all the schools I have visited over the years are special as well. Each is unique and each cares deeply for its students, families, and parish. Our Catholic schools are wonderful gifts to the families of our Church in Western Washington.
Frank served as a Fulcrum Trustee for 16 years and as the Chief Financial Officer of the Archdiocese of Seattle for six years. He and his wife, DeAnn, enjoy their roles as Catholic school grandparents and can’t wait to be “back in school.”