What strikes me most about the life of Father Tolton is that despite the persecution he faced from a certain German priest, he did not in turn persecute the priest. Even when writing about the prejudice he endured, he did not malign the priest but simply stated the situation as it was. It is an example of long-suffering and of humility sorely needed today as each of us strives to be perfected in holiness.
His cause, of course, is underway and is so it is only right that we accompany it with our prayers and seek Father Gus' intercession for us. To this end, might I invite you to join me in praying the prayer for his Cause:
O God, we give you thanks for your servant and priest Father Augustus Tolton, who labored among us in times of contradiction, times that were both beautiful and paradoxical. His ministry helped lay the foundation for a truly Catholic gathering of faith in our time. We stand in the shadow of his ministry. May his life continue to inspire us and imbue us with that confidence and hope that will forge a new evangelization for the Church we love.
Father in heaven, Father Tolton's suffering service sheds light upon our sorrows. We see them through the prism of your Son's passion and death. If it be your will, O God, glorify your servant, Father Tolton, by granting the favor I now request through his intercession (pray your request silently) so that all may know the goodness of this priest whose memory looms large in the Church he loved.
Complete what you have begun in us that we might work for the fulfillment of your kingdom. No to us the glory, but glory to you, O God, through Jesus Christ your Son, and our Lord, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. You are our God, living and reigning forever and ever. Amen.
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