Documentary about Venerable Fr. Augustus Tolton’s journey to priesthood to be shown June 22 in Quincy

QUINCY — The premiere of the film “Tolton Speaks” will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 22 at St. Peter Catholic Church, 2600 Maine.

“Tolton Speaks: The Life and Letters of Fr. Augustus Tolton” is a documentary about Venerable Fr. Augustus Tolton’s journey to the priesthood. Born into slavery and prohibited from entering any seminary in the United States, Fr. Tolton defied social expectations and the odds to become America’s first recognized African-American Roman Catholic priest.

The film follows Tolton’s extraordinary story through expert interviews, historical documents and his words as told through never-before-seen letters. “Tolton Speaks” was designated in 2024 as an official Selection of Faith in Film: International Film Festival and Screenwriting competition.

Tolton had significant ties in Quincy, spending most of his formative years here. He received his first communion at the Church of St. Peter and celebrated his first Solemn High Mass in the community at St. Boniface Church in 1886, following his ordination at St. John Lateran Basilica in Rome.

A memorial wall and statue are dedicated to Father Tolton on the grounds of St. Peter Catholic Church in Quincy. His gravesite is in the priests’ lot at St. Peter Cemetery, 3300 Broadway.

Explore more Tolton Quincy connections in The City of Refuge Guide at SeeQuincy.com.

“Tolton Speaks” is brought to Quincy by The Tolton Spirituality Center, Chicago; St. Peter Church, Quincy; and the Quincy Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Tickets are $10 at the door or in advance at See Quincy offices in the Villa Kathrine, 532 Gardner Expressway, 217.214.3700. Check or cash is accepted.

For more information, contact tolton.spirituality.center@gmail.com.