The Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry, auxiliary bishop of Chicago and Postulator of the Cause for Canonization of the Venerable Father Augustus Tolton, will keynote the Annual Commemoration of the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Bishop Perry will bridging the work and life of Tolton and the legacy of King for the purposes of highlighting not only the duty of the Christian faithful to become drum majors for justice, but also fostering vocations, cultivating missions and discipleship, and strengthening family life.
Immediately following the Annual Commemoration, Tolton: From Slave to Priest, a powerful one-man production performed by Jim Coleman of Saint Luke Productions will be performed. All are invited to this inspiring production on the life of one of Fr. Augustus Tolton, the first African American priest. From his dramatic escape from slavery to his courageous struggle in the face of prejudice, Fr. Tolton’s inspiring life centers around his message of reconciliation and hope. This riveting drama is filled with all the elements of professional theater, runs 75 minutes, and is suitable for ages 10 and up.