Annually, the diocesan Office of Multicultural Ministries awards an individual with the Fr. Augustus Tolton and Mother Lange Black Catholic Service Award, often shortened to “the Tolton Award.”
The award recognizes a lay person who has supported the Black Catholic population in the diocese. It includes a monetary gift and a plaque to be hung at the recipient’s parish.
This year, the award went to Patricia “Pat” Brooks of Holy Family Church in Dale City. Brooks received multiple nominations, detailing her 30 years of dedicated church service including participation in CCD classes, gospel choir, and education on the lives of Black Catholic saints and saints-to-be; supporting the Oblate Sisters of Providence in Baltimore; and being an active member of Holy Family Black Catholic History and Heritage Ministry that she co-chaired. Brooks’ zeal and faith has led her to Rome where she witnessed the canonization of St. Josephine Bakhita.
The recipient is selected during November, Black Catholic History Month. Brooks was presented the award on Gaudete Sunday, Dec. 12, at Holy Family Church. A reception in her honor followed the presentation.
Wilson is director of the diocesan Office of Multicultural Ministries.
Find out more
To learn more about the Fr. Augustus Tolton and Mother Lange Black Catholic Service Award, contact the Office of Multicultural Ministries, 703/841-3881.
