Mount St. Mary's University will host the one-actor drama Tolton: From Slave to Priest on Monday, November 4 at 7 p.m. in Knott Auditorium.
The drama tells the story of the life of America's first black priest, Father Augustus Tolton. Tolton's cause for canonization gained press over the summer when Pope Francis officially recognized his heroic life of ministry in the United States.
The powerful multi-media live production, from Saint Luke Productions, combines music, drama and inspiring performances in telling Tolton's story. Born a slave on a Missouri farm in 1854, Tolton escaped to freedom with his mother, sister and baby brother to the town of Quincy, Illinois, where the family continued to experience persecution and hardships.Although he was sent away from the local Catholic school because of the color of his skin, his faith was unshakeable. He persevered in his desire to become a Catholic priest despite being rejected by every seminary in the country. As a priest, he served people of all races.
The event, cosponsored by the university's Center for Campus Ministry, Center for Student Diversity and Center for Student Engagement and Success as well as Mount St. Mary's Seminary, is open to the public. A free-will offering is suggested. For more information, contact the university's Center for Campus Ministry at 301-447-5223,