In Honor of St. Alphonsus Rodriguez, S.J.

By: William Breault, SJ

They say we gain honor
And recognition
From great struggles,
Deeds fought against a visible enemy.

Certainly we should praise such bravery,
Especially Remembering those who have fallen
On the fields of battle -
As we do the Lord, Jesus Christ,
And those who have died for Him.

But what if the struggle is hidden within the heart
Where no weapons can be seen,
Nor armor to hide behind;
And even though the battle is most fierce,
No sound is heard.
What then?

But remember!
God could crown such a career with success,
Even though years passed by
Without anything even worth noting.

Such was the case with Alphonsus
At the door,
A mere porter for a life time,
A gate keeper,
His eyes always on Christ.