David Katzin Classical Music Program
It was 2002 when Phoenix businessman, David Katzin approached the Catholic Schools Office with an interest in evolving a classical music appreciation program for students. He set up a generous endowment through the Foundation, establishing the Katzin Classical Music Program. This innovative program, which is now in its 9th year, makes it possible for over a thousand Catholic school children in the inner city school area to be introduced to the works of the great composers.
“We are happily participating in a glorious level of education that is striking the chords in the hearts of children,” said Betsy Sherf, Coordinator of the Katzin Music Program. Among the participating schools are St. Agnes, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Gregory, St. Matthew, St. Vincent de Paul, St. John Vianney, Most Holy Trinity, St. Daniel the Prophet and most recently Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Glendale.
Mr. Katzin’s generosity has opened the doors of Phoenix Symphony Hall, the Comerica Theatre, The Herberger Theatre, Center Dance Ensemble, Ballet Folklorico, Arizona State University School of Music, Childsplay and so many other delightful venues for our Catholic students. It has provided the opportunity to bring performers into our schools and equip classrooms with keyboards, CD players, rhythm instruments and a wealth of other materials that are in daily use. The children are in a glow when they recognize a portrait of a composer or identify correctly the great music that is their heritage. Imagine the ticket to the future these children have been given. Thank you, David Katzin, for being a beautiful note in the melody of their lives.
St. John Vianney Seminarian Fund
The Diocese of Phoenix is presently training and supporting seminarians to be the priests and pastors of tomorrow. Presently, the cost of a Seminary student is $32,000 – $40,000 per year. It is vital to the health of our religious community and the future of our Diocese that we meet the obligation to support our seminarians.
To supplement the already existing endowments, the Foundation has established the St. John Vianney Seminarian Fund. You may feel like you are only one person and wonder what difference your gift or prayer can make. Please be assured that working together, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we can make a tremendous difference.
We all know the joy that comes from sharing our gifts with others. Think about the joy that will be yours knowing you created a legacy that will provide priests for this Diocese forever. You will share in the blessings of all the lives they touch because you made it possible.