“While pastors have many tools for evangelization, I’ve found nothing more effective than a strong parish Catholic school for handing on the faith. In many ways, our schools are the lifeblood of parish life. We often joke that if you’re not struggling to run a school, you’re probably not doing it right! It can feel at times like we’re swimming against the cultural currents of our day. But the good news is—we don’t have to swim alone. The SPAT program has been an enormous help to our schools here in Port Richmond. I’m blessed to serve a parish with three schools, and each one benefits from the guidance, support, and encouragement of a dedicated SPAT team.

Thanks to their steady assistance—and the leadership of Jerry Parsons—our schools are not only fulfilling their mission but also remaining financially sustainable. If your parish hasn’t yet taken advantage of the SPAT program, I would strongly encourage you to do so. It’s one of the best partnerships we’ve made, and it’s made all the difference.”

~Father Jim Olson, Pastor of St. John Paul II Parish