Saint John Berchmans

Biography

Saint John Berchmans, also known as Jan Berchmans, was born on March 13, 1599, in Driest, Brabant, Belgium. He was the son of a shoemaker and was one of five children, three of whom entered religious life. Even from a young age, John showed great devotion to his faith and was particularly drawn to serving as an altar boy. John's deep commitment to his faith led him to spend much of his time caring for his mother, who was in poor health. Despite the challenges at home, he pursued his religious call and entered the Jesuit novitiate in 1616. It was during this time that he decided to become a Jesuit after reading the inspiring life of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga. After completing his novitiate, John continued his studies at the Jesuit College in Malines, Belgium. It was there that he demonstrated exceptional academic skills and a passion for learning. His dream was to help and teach multilingual migrants, and to pursue this goal, he dedicated himself to studying all the chief languages of Europe. He hoped to eventually work in China after his ordination. In pursuit of his studies, John proceeded to Rome to continue his education in philosophy. Despite his young age, he displayed a remarkable intellect and commitment to learning. However, his time in Rome was tragically cut short. John died of unknown causes on August 12, 1621, shortly after participating in a public debate defending the faith. At the time of his passing, he was holding his rosary, crucifix, and the rules of his order. Regrettably, John did not live long enough to be ordained. What set Saint John Berchmans apart was not extraordinary feats of holiness or austerity, nor did he found orders, churches, or work flashy miracles. Instead, he emphasized the importance of kindness, courtesy, and constant fidelity as essential components of holiness. He exemplified that the path to holiness can lie in the ordinary rather than the extraordinary. Saint John Berchmans is often depicted standing with his hands clasped, holding his crucifix, book of rules, and rosary. These items symbolize his devotion to his religious vocation and his commitment to the Rule of Saint Ignatius. His feast days are celebrated on August 13 and, on some calendars, November 26. Additionally, on November 27, he is commemorated by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). Following his death, Saint John Berchmans' relics were enshrined at Saint Ignatius Church in Rome, Italy. He was beatified by Pope Pius IX on May 28, 1865, and canonized by Pope Leo XIII on January 15, 1888. In recognition of his life and example, Saint John Berchmans is honored as the patron saint of altar boys, altar girls, altar servers, Oblate novices, and young people. His story reminds us that even in the simplest acts of kindness and fidelity, we too can strive for holiness.