Saint John Berchmans, SJ was a Jesuit scholastic and the patron saint of altar servers. He was sent to Rome during his studies at the newly founded Jesuit college in Malines and was known for his diligence and piety. His pursuit of perfection in little things makes him an excellent example to follow, especially for young men and women assisting in the Eucharstic celebration.
This full-color laminated prayer card features a traditional image of this holy man on the front and a prayer for Altar Servers on the back.
It would make a thoughtful gift for those serving alongside the priest at your parish mass.
Made in Italy. Available in singles or packs of 25.
Prayer on Back:
To an Altar Server
To be Christ’s page at the altar, to serve him freely there
Where even the angels falter, Bowed low in reverent prayer
To touch the throne most holy; To hand the gifts for the feast
To see Him meekly, lowly; Descend at the word of the priest
To hear man’s poor petition, To sound the silver bell,
When He in sweet submission, Comes down with us to dwell.
No grander mission surely
Could saints or men enjoy;
No hear should love more purely; Than yours, my altar server.
God bless you forever and keep you in His care,
And guard you that you never
Belie the robes you wear for white bespeaks untainted
A heart both tried and true; And red tells love the sainted
And holy martyrs knew
Throughout life, then, endeavor God’s graces to employ;
And be in heart forever
A holy altar server
St. John Berchmans, Patron of Altar Servers