FROM SLAVE TO PRIEST The Inspirational Story of Father Augustine Tolton (1854-1897) by CAROLINE HEMESATH

Description

Born into a black Catholic slave family, Fr. Augustine Tolton conquered almost insurmountable odds to become one of the first black priests in the United States. By his early death at 43, this pioneer black priest left behind a shining legacy of holy service to God, the church, and his people. Denied theological training in America, his friends helped him to receive his priestly education and ordination in Rome. He later became the pastor of St. Monica’s Church in Chicago and established a flourishing center at St. Monica’s that was the focal point for black Catholics. The author interviewed many people who knew him personally, including St. Katherine Drexel, in order to present this inspiring portrait of a great American Catholic. Illustrated. Paper.