Pierre Toussaint’s life really is a remarkable one that leaves you saying, “That’s incredible.” It is hard to believe that a man would remain enslaved just because his widowed owner needed him. It is also a stretch to understand how one man could endure racial indignities, even in his church, yet continue to nurture his Catholic spirit of philanthropy and good will. How does such a person manage to remain positive amid every obstacle and emerge as a pillar of courage and strength both for his oppressors and supporters? These were the remarkable aspects of Pierre Toussaint’s life. Pierre Toussaint, how did you have the compassion, strength and patience to survive slavery and the evil of your day? You were willing to serve others, even when others hated and despised you. You loved those close to you, but how did you love your enemies too? Please teach us your ways of responsibility, generosity, and kindness toward all men and women.
— from African Saints, African Stories: 40 Holy Men and Women
