5 years, 2 months ago by Scott Hardy
Case approved to move forward by a Vatican committee earlier this month
The nation's first African-American priest, who grew up and served in Quincy, has moved closer to sainthood.
That's according to a Wednesday statement from Springfield diocese. They said that earlier this month, the Theological Consultants of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome unanimously approved that Father Augustine Tolton's cause move forward. It now moves to the Cardinal and Archbishop members of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, as well as to Pope Francis, for their consideration. If Pope Francis approves, then Father Tolton would receive the title of “Venerable.” Diocese officials hope that happens before the end of the year.
The Vatican will need to confirm two miracles attributed to Tolton for him to be declared a saint. At least one miracle has already been submitted for review. Tolton grew up in Quincy and served for several years as a priest in Quincy before moving to Chicago. He's buried at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Quincy.
