IL SR0609

Commemorates the 126th anniversary of Father Augustus Tolton's ordination on April 24, 1886, recognizing him as the first African-American priest in the United States

Designates April 24, 2012 as Father Augustus Tolton Day in Illinois to honor his commitment and ministry to African-American Catholics

Documents Tolton's life journey from slavery in Missouri through his escape to freedom, education in Quincy, and priestly ordination in Rome by the Propaganda Seminary

Recognizes Tolton's service as pastor of St. Joseph's Church in Quincy beginning July 25, 1886, and his subsequent ministry in Chicago starting in 1889, including leadership of the St. Augustine Society and St. Monica's Church

Notes that the Cause for Tolton's beatification and canonization was officially opened on February 24, 2011