Venerable Pierre Toussaint
Pierre Toussaint was born a slave in 1766 in the French colony of Saint Domingue, modern-day Haiti. Pierre worked as a house slave inside a plantation owned by Jean Berard. He was educated by the family’s tutors, which was unusual for the time.
When political unrest came to the island, Pierre, his sister, Rosalie, and the wife of his master were sent to New York. There Pierre was allowed to train as a hairdresser. He earned his own money, and when his owner’s family fell on hard times, he used that money to take care of them. Madame Berard promised to free him when she died, which she did in 1807.
Pierre did well as a hairdresser among the wealthy of New York. He purchased the freedom of another slave, Juliette Noel. From early on, the couple were very conscious of the needs of the poor. They opened their home to orphans and as a refuge to those in need.
Pierre lived in an era when not only was he looked down upon as a freed slave, but anti-Catholicism was strong in New York at the time. He attended Mass every day for more than 60 years and was devoted to the Rosary. He was also a teacher of the faith and could explain the church’s teachings well and simply.
“I have never felt I am a slave to any man or woman but a servant of the Almighty God who made us all. ”
In addition to helping others with the money he made, he gave a great deal of money to help finance the construction of the original St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Pierre went to the dedication of the cathedral and was initially denied entrance because he was black. But another usher recognized him and immediately brought him to a seat of honor.
When Pierre died in 1853, he was buried in the cemetery of the cathedral. But in 1990, the cardinal in New York had his remains moved to the crypt in St. Patrick’s Cathedral where only cardinals and archbishops are buried. Pierre is the only layperson to be so honored.
What struck you most from his story? Why?
Additional Resources:
Pierre Toussaint by Teaching Catholic Kids
Pierre Toussaint bio video by Star Quest Production Network