Saint John Berchmans Church

In 1903, a generous gift of three acres of land at Zarzamora and Brady Streets laid the foundation for what would become Saint John Berchmans Church. Stephanie Hooge, the donor, envisioned a chapel serving the Belgian Catholic community that had settled in San Antonio. These early parishioners yearned for a priest who spoke their native Flemish. The community rallied together, some traveling fifteen to thirty miles by horse and wagon, bringing their own lunches and tools, to construct their chapel. Their dedication brought the chapel to completion in 1910, with Reverend Richard Vershaffelt, a Belgian priest, leading the 152 founding members. Saint John Berchmans Church was unique from its inception. It wasn’t established by a bishop, but rather by the initiative of the community itself. They even devised a makeshift bell. A farmer ingeniously rigged a plowshare in a tree, striking it with a pipe to create a resounding call to worship. This resonated across the neighborhood until a proper bell tower was erected six months later. The bell was dedicated on August 28, 1912, marking a joyous occasion for Saint John Berchmans Church. By the mid-1940s, Saint John Berchmans Church was bursting at the seams. The growing congregation needed more space. Bishop Lucey saw another need: a school. Monsignor John Dubourgel, then parish priest, faced the challenge of limited funds. A generous family within the parish stepped forward, donating three and a half acres on Harriman and Kirk Place, paving the way for a new church and school. The school opened in September 1949, a source of pride for Saint John Berchmans Church. It quickly gained recognition as one of the city’s outstanding elementary schools, excelling in both academics and sports. The Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) program also began during this era. Many eighth-grade students, after special training, became CCD teachers. However, change was on the horizon. In 1962, Father Michael Cattaert, the pastor, learned that the planned Kelly Access Road (now General Hudnell Drive) would require another relocation. This led to the purchase of property at Cupples Road and Weir Avenue. On August 23, 1964, ground was broken for a new church, school, rectory, and convent, the current location of Saint John Berchmans Church. The spirit of initiative and community that birthed Saint John Berchmans Church continues to thrive today. It stands as a testament to the dedication and faith of its founders.