American Catholic History: Venerable Pierre Toussaint

Introduction

• Podcast by the StarQuest Production Network.
• Hosts: Noelle Hester Crowe & Tom Crowe.
• Topic: Venerable Pierre Toussaint, a unique figure in New York's Catholic history.

Early Life

• Born in 1766 in Saint-Domingue (present-day Haiti).
• Mother was a slave on a plantation owned by Jean and Marie Berard.
• Unlike many slaves, he and his sister Rosalie were trained as house slaves and educated in reading and writing.
• Gained access to a plantation library, which sparked his deep Catholic faith.

Move to New York

• 1787: Due to political unrest, the Berards moved to New York City with Pierre and Rosalie.
• Pierre apprenticed to a prominent hairdresser, learning the art of coiffure, a trade limited for blacks at that time.
• Became a successful hairdresser for the upper class, working long hours and walking to clients due to restrictions on black transportation.

Personal Sacrifice

• In 1791, after Monsieur Berard's death during a trip back to Haiti, Madame Berard became a widow.
• Pierre chose to remain enslaved to care for her, supporting her financially and emotionally.
• Actively encouraged her involvement in society, ensuring she was uplifted.

Freedom and Family

• 1807: Pierre was manumitted (freed) at age 41; took the last name Toussaint in honor of the revolutionary leader.
• Purchased his sister’s freedom and later married Juliette Noël, a younger woman who was also enslaved.
• They lived with the Nicolases and adopted Pierre's niece Euphemia after his sister's death.

Philanthropy and Influence

• Became a confidant and counselor to wealthy clients, using his position to help others, especially immigrants and freed slaves.
• Actively involved in various charitable acts:
  • Co-founded an orphanage with Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton.
  • Supported the construction of schools for black children in New York and Baltimore.
  • Provided aid during epidemics and visited prisons to offer counsel.

Legacy

• Pierre and Juliette’s charitable work continued for 40 years until her death in 1851.
• Pierre died in 1853, known for his generosity and compassion; his funeral was widely covered in the press.
• Recognized for heroic virtue; his remains were honored by being interred in St. Patrick's Cathedral's crypt.

Canonization Process

• Cause for canonization opened in 1968; recognized as venerable by Pope St. John Paul II in 1996.
• Awaiting a miracle for beatification.

Conclusion

• Pierre Toussaint is remembered as a great humanitarian and a symbol of hope and faith.
• The legacy of his deeds continues to inspire and reflect the values of Catholicism in America.