Beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

09-27-2026Pastor's CornerFr. Bob Deehan

Last Thursday, September 24, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen was beatified at The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Beatification declares Archbishop Sheen “Blessed,” and is the final step before becoming canonized a saint. Part of the process of becoming “Blessed” entails a thorough investigation to credit the person’s intercession with a medically unexplained miracle, which in his case was the recovery of an infant who had no vital signs for 61 minutes.

Another miracle will be required for him to become a saint. Archbishop Sheen served as the National Director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith from 1950 to 1966, and led an extraordinary life as a theologian, teacher and 20th century media pioneer promoting the Catholic faith by reaching millions of people through his radio and television programs, such as Life Is Worth Living, for which he won an Emmy Award in 1952 as the "Most Outstanding Television Personality. Upon accepting the award, he joked, "I wish to thank my four writers, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John."

Prayer of Canonization

Heavenly Father, source of all holiness, You raise up within the Church in every age men and women who serve with heroic love and dedication. You have blessed Your Church through the life and ministry of Your faithful servant, ARCHBISHOP FULTON J. SHEEN. He has written and spoken well of Your Divine Son, Jesus Christ, and was a true instrument of the Holy Spirit in touching the hearts of countless people. If it be according to Your Will, for the glory of the Most Holy Trinity and for the salvation of souls, we ask You to move the Church to proclaim him a saint. We ask this prayer through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
(Imprimatur: +Most Reverend Daniel R. Jenky, C.S.C., Bishop of Peoria)

God bless you!