The Ordinary Saint
The Life of John Berchmans
By Catholic Online
John Berchmans, who lived from 1599 to 1621, is a saint who personifies the idea that even the simplest of tasks, when done to the best of one's ability and with the intention of serving God, can lead to great holiness. Despite dying at the young age of 22, John did not found any religious orders, perform any miracles, or accomplish any other great deeds. Yet, he was canonized a saint in 1888 due to his extraordinary virtue and devotion to God.
John was born in Diest, Belgium, to a poor shoemaker. He was one of five children, three of whom entered religious life. John was a gifted student and excelled in his studies. He entered the Society of Jesus at the age of 17 and quickly became known for his humility, obedience, and charity. John spent his days performing the most ordinary tasks, such as sweeping the floors, cleaning the dishes, and helping in the kitchen. Yet, he always did his work with great care and attention to detail, offering it up to God as a form of prayer.
John's example is a reminder that we do not need to perform extraordinary acts to achieve holiness. Rather, we can live holy lives by doing the ordinary things well, with love and devotion to God. In the words of Pope Francis, "Holiness is not about doing extraordinary things, but about doing ordinary things with extraordinary love."
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