In Pursuit: Philadelphia and the Making of America

Join us at St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church on Monday, September 21 from 6:00–8:30 PM for a special screening from In Pursuit: Philadelphia and the Making of America, the landmark documentary series exploring the people, movements, and defining moments that shaped both Philadelphia and the nation. St. Augustine's is itself a site of that history — the original church was burned to the ground during the Nativist riots of 1844, a defining moment of anti-Catholic violence in American history. This evening invites audiences to step into that history and reflect on the enduring fight for freedom, equity, and civic power.

Following the screening, guests are invited to stay for a powerful conversation with Katie Oxx, PhD, Father Chris of St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church, and Pastor Bill of St. George's United Methodist Church. Conversation moderated by David Krueger.

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Overiew of Episode 5 : America (1838–1871)

Episode 5: America (1838–1871) is a powerful exploration of a nation struggling to define itself amid immigration, slavery, civil war, and the fight for equality.

As Philadelphia becomes a battleground for competing visions of America, Irish immigrants, abolitionists, educators, and political leaders shape the future of the city and the nation. The episode follows figures including Abraham Lincoln, Octavius Catto, Caroline LeCount, and Jacob White as they confront questions of citizenship, democracy, and civil rights during one of the most transformative periods in American history. From the anti-Catholic riots of the 1840s to the Civil War and the promise of Reconstruction, America examines the challenges and possibilities of a nation striving to live up to its founding ideals.