Have you ever heard a plowshare ring out as a church bell? That’s how it began at St John Berchmans Church in San Antonio. This isn’t just any church. It’s a testament to faith perseverance and the ingenuity of a community.
St John Berchmans Church holds a special place in San Antonio’s history. It started as a simple chapel built in 1910 by Belgian immigrants. These hardworking people traveled miles to build their place of worship. They brought their own tools and lunches. They were determined to have a church where they could hear Mass in their native Flemish. They faced hardships but their faith was unwavering.
The original chapel became the heart of a larger church built in 1910. But they had no bell. No money either. A resourceful farmer solved the problem. He placed a plowshare in a tree. Striking it with a pipe created a surprisingly loud sound. This makeshift bell called the community to prayer for six months until a proper bell tower was built. Bishop Shaw dedicated the new bell in 1912. What a celebration that must have been!
The church grew. By the mid-1940s it was too small. The parish thrived. The community’s spirit flourished. Bishop Lucey saw the need for a school. A generous family donated land. The new church and school were built.
St John Berchmans school opened in 1949. It quickly gained a reputation for excellence. Its students excelled both academically and athletically. The parish also started a CCD program. Many eighth-grade students even went on to teach in this program. Isn’t that inspiring?
However progress brought challenges. In 1962 the parish received unexpected news. A new road a right of way for the Kelly Access Road later renamed General Hudnell Drive necessitated another move. The parish didn’t give up. They found new land. On August 23 1964 ground was broken for a new church school rectory and convent on Cupples Road and Weir Avenue. This isn’t just a story of bricks and mortar. It’s a story of faith resilience and the power of community.
The story of St John Berchmans Church reflects the enduring spirit of San Antonio. It is a living testament to the faith and determination of its founders. The church stands as a symbol of hope and perseverance. A community’s unwavering commitment continues to inspire. A place where a plowshare once rang out as a bell. Now a place of worship where faith and community continue to flourish.