The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints has confirmed September 24, 2026, as the date for the beatification of the venerable Fulton John Sheen, which will take place in St. Louis (United States), thus culminating a long process that recognizes the life and apostolate of one of the most influential figures in Catholicism in the 20th century.
Sheen, declared venerable by Benedict XVI in 2012, stood out for his intense evangelizing work, especially through the media, in an era marked by profound cultural changes.
From Illinois to a Global Reference in Catholicism
Born in 1895 in the state of Illinois, into a family of Irish origin, Fulton Sheen showed from a young age a clear priestly vocation. He was ordained a priest in 1919 and developed a brilliant academic career, with studies in theology, canon law, and philosophy.
For decades, he served as a professor at the Catholic University of America, combining his teaching work with a growing pastoral and evangelizing activity.
A Pioneer of Evangelization in the Media
Starting in 1930, he began directing the radio program The Catholic Hour, which reached a huge audience and contributed to numerous conversions. Later, his presence on television with the program Life is Worth Living made him one of the most well-known religious figures in the United States, reaching millions of viewers each week.
His ability to explain the truths of the faith clearly in accessible language earned him widespread recognition, including an Emmy Award in 1952.
Bishop, Missionary, and Man of Deep Interior Life
Appointed auxiliary bishop of New York in 1951, Sheen continued his evangelizing work from various responsibilities, including the national direction of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith.
He actively participated in the preparation of the Second Vatican Council and was later appointed bishop of Rochester, where he promoted intense pastoral activity, especially oriented toward the most needy.
After his resignation in 1969, he returned to New York, where he continued preaching and teaching until his death in 1979.
A Miracle Attributed to His Intercession
The miracle that has opened the door to his beatification occurred in 2010 in Peoria (Illinois), a city especially linked to his figure. It involves the inexplicable healing of a newborn who had suffered a prolonged cardiorespiratory arrest after birth.
The child, who remained without vital signs for more than an hour, finally recovered full life, an event attributed to the intercession of Fulton Sheen following the intense prayers of his parents and other people.
A Long-Awaited Beatification
The setting of the beatification date brings to an end a process followed for years by numerous faithful, who have seen in Fulton Sheen a model of fidelity to the Church and dedication to evangelization.