In a world where Catholic education is needed more than ever before, it has become increasingly difficult for families to afford it. How can students ensure they receive the authentic Catholic formation they need? At Christendom College, a faithful Catholic education is a lifeline for families seeking solid spiritual and academic formation, but the college depends heavily on generous benefactors to make that possible. In times like these, that support is more vital than ever.
One way Christendom is addressing these challenges is through the Legacy Challenge—an initiative that allows donors to provide immediate financial assistance to students while leaving a lasting impact on the college’s future. Thanks to a generous benefactor, the Legacy Challenge matches 10% of a future legacy gift with an immediate gift to support financial aid for students today. This means donors can make a difference in the lives of students now while ensuring that Catholic education will continue to thrive for generations to come.
This story comes from the latest issue of Instaurare Magazine, the official magazine of Christendom College. Read more from Instaurare here!
One such benefactor, David Zarri, understands the power of legacy, both in the moment and for the future. Raised in a devout Catholic family in the San Francisco Bay Area, Zarri saw firsthand how important it is to use the blessings he had received to serve others. Through the example of his parents and others, Zarri learned early on that faithfulness is not just a personal matter—it’s a call to action, to give back and lift others up.
Zarri’s journey took him around the world, but after finishing high school and traveling, he returned to help his family run their Italian delicatessen. It was there that he learned the value of hard work, customer service, and community—skills that kept the family business running. But even in the day-to-day operations of the business, Zarri never lost sight of the bigger picture: the responsibility we all have to use our resources to help others, especially in the Catholic faith.
When asked what inspired him to give, Zarri reflects on the words of Venerable Fulton J. Sheen, who once said, “The surest way to get to heaven is to take someone’s hand and lead them there.” This quote resonates deeply with Zarri, who often asks himself, “How can I multiply the blessings God has given me? How can I impact more people?” The answer was clear: by supporting Catholic causes, including the mission of Christendom College.
Christendom stood out to Zarri as an institution unwavering in its commitment to faithful Catholic education. He saw the college as an example of what Catholic formation should be, especially in an era when many colleges have strayed from the teachings of the Church.
“In this time, it is so crucial to understand the human person and to understand good relationships. While other colleges have gone astray, Christendom is fostering an excellent Catholic formation,” Zarri says.
When Zarri learned about the Legacy Challenge, he knew it was the perfect opportunity to make a tangible impact. He included Christendom as a beneficiary in his living trust, ensuring that his legacy would both support students in need today and provide for the college’s future.
“We should make the most of what God has given us, even after our lifetime. I provided a legacy for Catholic education to touch as many souls as possible,” Zarri explains.
For students like Mary Fowler, a senior at Christendom College, benefactors like Zarri make all the difference.
“I am overcome with gratitude for their generous contributions to my education. I have made so many friendships and memories that will last a lifetime, and the fulfillment I’ve found here is incredible. How wonderful to be at a place where my relationship with Christ has flourished, and my mind has grown in incomparable ways,” Fowler says.
Zarri’s generosity is an inspiring reminder that we can all make a difference, no matter where we are in life. By leaving a legacy of faith, he encourages others to think about their own impact and the example they can set. “Our work is inspired by the Holy Spirit. When I leave this legacy, I want to encourage others to think about their own legacy. Our example is so powerful,” Zarri concludes.
Through his selfless giving, Zarri is not only investing in the students of today but ensuring that future generations of Catholics will have access to the education and formation they need to live their faith boldly in a world that needs it more than ever.
Written by Jacob Stevens.
Read more from Instaurare Magazine here.