Archbishop Alex. J. Brunett, retired Archbishop of Seattle, was awarded the inaugural Castello Award at our Celebrate St. Madeleine’s Gala on April 18, 2015.
The Award was created on the advent of the second decade of our school ministry and the exciting future we are building for the entire parish in order to begin acknowledging that these journeys are never completed alone. As it is often said, it takes a village. We know there are people along our own path who have recognized that, while it may be out of the ordinary, or maybe not the “predictable” thing to do, nevertheless have supported our mission of inclusion and welcoming of economic, ethnic and academic diversity. Archbishop Brunett recognized early on the powerful dream of Fr. Jim and the parish leadership to open a school – when so many others doubted. Not only through his prayers and guidance – but also in opening his own discretionary resources (and inviting others to do the same) Archbishop Brunett was instrumental in our early success. Without his confidence in what we were about, we certainly would not be here – in this way – this evening.
Though not able to be present to receive the award personally the entire community rose in applause of thanks. As our still evolving program continues to grow and gain national recognition, it was noted that, by extending his arms around us, his reach has touched – and will continue to touch for years to come – so many more than he could possibly know.
About the Castello Award
From the moment of her birth near Florence in 1287, it was clear that Margaret’s life would be filled with extreme hardship. Disabled due to a spinal deformity and dwarfism, she was also born blind. By the age of seven she found herself abandoned by her family and left in a parish church in nearby Citta-de-Castello. The kind souls of the city were filled with empathy for the little orphan, and, poor though they were, they took care of her – first one family and then another, sheltering and feeding her until she became the adopted child of the village. One and all declared that, far from being a burden, little Margaret brought a blessing upon those who befriended her.
At the age of fifteen, Margaret was accepted into the Dominican order, and thus embarked on a remarkable period, devoting her indomitable spirit and love to teaching children, tending to the ill, and caring for others regardless of their health, wealth or soul. Even after her death at age thirty-three, countless miracles have been attributed to her intercession.
The Castello Award, inspired by the story of “Little Margaret” seeks to recognize individuals, families and programs that replicate the courage and compassion of the many townspeople of Citta-de-Castello, taking a chance, seeing beyond the surface, going out of their way – even if it isn’t the popular thing to do – in order to welcome and include those who some may see as different or not equal.
