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Chicago Mass celebrates Fr. Tolton’s step closer to sainthood
Hundreds of people turned out to celebrate Pope Francis declaring Father Augustus Tolton “venerable” during a Mass with Cardinal Blase J. Cupich Oct. 14 at St. Philip Neri Church in Chicago.
-Catholic Missourian
The promulgation of the decree by the Pope declaring Tolton “venerable,” which was announced June 11, means his life was formally recognized as demonstrating the theological virtues of faith, hope and charity and the cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance at a heroic level.
Fr. Tolton is two steps away from possibly being declared a saint. Once it is confirmed that one miracle has been granted by God through the intercession of Fr. Tolton, he will be declared “blessed.”
For canonization — being named a saint — a second miracle is generally required unless the Pope waives that requirement.
Two possible miracles through Fr. Tolton’s intercession have been sent to the Vatican for review, according to Chicago Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Perry, postulator of the cause.
That Fr. Tolton has moved closer to being declared a saint drew many to the Mass to celebrate.