As published in the Jan/Feb 2025 issue of FAITH Grand Rapids magazine.
Dear friends of Catholic schools,
As my final school year nears the semester mark, I am filled with gratitude as I reflect on the incredible journey we have shared in the creation of an alliance of Catholic schools. It has been a privilege to serve this vibrant community, rooted in our shared faith and commitment to nurturing the minds and hearts of our students.
Growing up, my mom would always say things like, “He’s 16 going on 25.” I always wanted to be older than I actually was, and I could never wait for what was next. So it’s not a surprise that at the age of 26, I began as the principal of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic School in Grand Rapids. I remember parents coming into the office, taking one look at me and saying, “You’re too young to be a principal!” and turning right around to head back out the door. I would call out to them, “Wait! I didn’t get your names.” Perhaps I was rather young to be a principal, but I was confident that the Lord was calling me to this work, and with him, through him, and in him, I knew it was possible. Thirty-two years later, some have said to me, you’re too young to retire, or you’re too young to have 15 grandchildren, and while at times it still seems a bit surreal to me as well, I still can’t wait to see what’s next.
I am looking forward to retirement and what’s next in my life of ministry and service to the Church. As I have assured Bishop Walkowiak, I’m not going anywhere, and I hope to serve the Church until the day I die, simply in a different capacity. The Lord, my wife and I are still crafting that plan.
It has been a privilege to serve two bishops, Bishop Hurley and Bishop Walkowiak, as well as this diocese as the superintendent of Catholic schools. I extend my deepest thanks to the dedicated clergy, leaders, teachers, staff, and volunteers whose unwavering commitment and service to our schools has and continues to inspire countless students and families. Your passion for education and dedication to living out the Catholic faith have made a profound impact in developing the next generation of saints. To our students, thank you for the ways you continue to open your hearts to Jesus and to grow in his plan for your lives. This dynamic relationship is the heart of our mission, and I am confident that each of you will continue to grow as disciples of Christ, always ready to share his love and life to the rest of the world.
I am committed to making sure our 31 Catholic schools have a strong finish to the school year. I will be working and praying hard for each of you during this time of transition. I ask that you keep me in your prayers as well. The alliance we have built together expanding outstanding educational ministry is the single greatest accomplishment of my life’s work. I will always cherish and love our Catholic schools!
In Christ,
David Faber
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
To read the full Jan/Feb issue, click here.