Venerable Augustus Tolton Wooden Doll Ornament

Handmade original Venerable Augustus Tolton Wooden Doll Ornament. Perfect for the Christmas Tree. Bring out on his feast day. Gift for a birthday or sacrament (Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, Holy Orders, Marriage) celebration. Teacher, priest, grandparent gift.

FBorn in Missouri in 1854, John Augustus Tolton began life as a slave. His father escaped slavery to join the Union Army while his mother remained the maid; as slaves of white Catholic owners, his family was brought up in the faith. Despite adversities, he had the love of Jesus in his heart. In 1862 his family courageously escaped by crossing the Mississippi River into Illinois; once safe, his mother said to him “Never forget the goodness of God.” Allowed to attend an all-white parish school in Quincy, Illinois with the permission of the pastor, Fr. McGirr, who mentored and prepared him for the sacraments. Continuing to grow in his faith, Augustus attended high school and Quincy College. Since no American seminary would accept blacks, with Fr. McGirr’s support, he studied the priesthood in Rome, ordained at 31 in 1886. He was directed to return to the US, the first Black American priest in the US. His first parish was in Quincy before moving to Chicago. “Good Father Gus” died unexpectedly on retreat at 43.

Made of wood, felt, ribbon, and handmade accessories. Includes tag and card with Saint description. Approximately 4" tall. Packaged in cellophane bag. Shipped in box with bubble wrap.