A couple of years ago I wrote the story of Father Augustus Tolton for our website. Sometime afterward, I received a complimentary letter from his great grandniece. She must be very happy that the cause has entered the first phase. I am delighted.
CNA reports: The Archdiocese of Chicago has begun a new phase of the investigation that could ultimately canonize Fr. Augustus Tolton. As the first African-American to become a priest, Fr. Tolton demonstrated remarkable patience, courage and dedication to his ministry during a time of widespread injustice.
Approximately a year after it opened Fr. Tolton’s cause, the archdiocese formally began the proceedings to examine the 19th century priest’s life, virtues and reputation for holiness. The process requires a canonical trial, which had its first session on the afternoon of Feb. 24 at St. James Chapel in downtown Chicago. Read the full report here.
