The Life of Venerable Fr. Augustus Tolton (Morning Air)

🔥 What a story! Bishop Joseph Perry, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Chicago, joined John Morales on Morning Air to talk about the incredible life of Venerable Father Augustus Tolton. He was the first African American diocesan priest in the U.S., a true pioneer for both the Church and racial justice. 

 

Tolton’s early life: Born into slavery in Missouri in 1854, Tolton’s mother bravely escaped with him across the dangerous Mississippi River to Illinois, a free state. After the Civil War, Tolton felt a call to the priesthood, but there was a huge problem – no seminary in the U.S. would accept a Black man!  God had this way; he was finally sent to Rome, where he was ordained in 1886.

 

His mission: Instead of being sent to Africa as many thought he would be, Venerable Tolton was sent back to Illinois where he faced racism not only from society but even from fellow priests. In Quincy, whites and blacks worshipping together? That was considered a no-no, and some people didn’t like the growing popularity of a Black priest!  He was eventually driven out of town but not out of his calling.

 

The Chicago chapter: Fr. Tolton later moved to Chicago, where he founded the city’s first Black Catholic parish and ministered to a growing community of freed slaves. His life wasn’t easy, full of challenges, loneliness, and discrimination, but his faith and dedication to unity and love were unshakeable.

 

Bishop Perry’s words really hit home: Fr. Tolton was a trailblazer for racial equality, carrying his cross as he sought to unite people across racial lines. 

 

💡 Canonization Update: Bishop Perry, who is overseeing the process of Tolton’s sainthood cause, is praying for that all-important miracle to officially recognize Venerable Tolton as a saint. Tolton’s legacy continues to inspire, and we’re all hoping for that beautiful day of beatification soon! 🙏

 

Talk about a life worth celebrating! Fr. Tolton’s unwavering trust in God and his mission to serve ALL people no matter their race is a story that needs to be shouted from the rooftops!

 

 

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