St.John Berchmans

Son of a shoemaker, and one of five children, three of whom entered religious life.
Great devotion to his position as an altar boy.
Spent much of his time caring for his mother, who was in poor health.

Decided to become a Jesuit after reading the life of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga.
Student at the Jesuit College at Malines.
Studied philosophy in Rome.
Had the dream of helping and teaching multi-lingual migrants who were on the move during the
time, and studied all the chief languages of Europe.
Wanted to work in China after ordination.

John Berchmans was not noted for extraordinary feats of holiness or austerity, nor did he found
orders or churches. He made kindness, courtesy, and constant fidelity an important part of his
holiness. The path to holiness can lie in the ordinary rather than the extraordinary.

Died on 12 August 1621 in Rome of unknown causes following his participation in a public
debate defending the faith, and while clutching his rosary, crucifix, and rules; he did not live to
be ordained.

Beatified in 1865 by Pope Pius IX

Canonized in 1888 by Pope Leo XIII