Caution, Tollie LeRoy

(Aug. 20, 1902-Aug. 31, 1987). Leading African American priest and national church executive. He was born in Baltimore. Caution received his B.A. in 1926 from Lincoln University, his M.A. in 1929 from the University of Pennsylvania, and his M.Div. in 1929 from the Philadelphia Divinity School. He was ordained deacon on June 8, 1929, and priest on Apr. 12, 1930. Caution served churches in Baltimore and Cumberland, Maryland; Meyersdale, Harrisburg, Altoona, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and New York City. In 1945 Caution was named the second secretary for Negro work. He served in that position until asked by Presiding Bishop John Hines to retire in 1967. Caution served in numerous other national positions while he was secretary for Negro work. From 1968 until 1970 he was consultant to the Presiding Bishop on pastoral affairs. He was very active with students at the traditionally African American colleges, and he worked to recruit African American clergy. He was a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He worked with the National Council of Churches, and he was a charter member of the Union of Black Episcopalians. Caution died in New York City.