Official Announcement from the Holy See
The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints of the Vatican officially announced that Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen will be elevated to the altars as a blessed on September 24. The beatification ceremony will take place at The Dome at America’s Center, an indoor stadium in St. Louis, Missouri, at 2:00 p.m. (Central Daylight Time). The choice of this venue responds to the expectation of a large influx of faithful eager to participate in this historic event.
An Inspiring Figure for the Contemporary Church
Monsignor Roger Landry, national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the United States, highlighted that Sheen «is an inspiration not only for all of us who continue his work, but for all those whose faith has been strengthened by his preaching, broadcasting, writings, and holy Catholic life.» Meanwhile, Bishop Louis Tylka of the Diocese of Peoria, Sheen’s birthplace and place of priestly ordination, described the moment as «of immense grace for the Church.» Tylka emphasized how Sheen’s life and ministry «continue to inspire countless people to know and love Jesus Christ more deeply.»
A Legacy of Evangelization in the Media
Fulton J. Sheen, ordained a priest for the Diocese of Peoria in 1919, became a highly influential public figure during the 20th century. Consecrated bishop in 1951, he gained international fame as a pioneer of television evangelization with his program «Life Is Worth Living,» aired between 1952 and 1957, which earned him an Emmy Award. His ability to communicate the truths of the Catholic faith in an accessible and profound manner garnered him an audience of millions.
The Path to Sainthood
Sheen’s canonization cause was opened in 2002. Pope Benedict XVI declared him Venerable in June 2012, recognizing his heroic virtues. A supposed miracle, approved by Pope Francis in July 2019, paved the way for beatification. This miracle involved the inexplicable recovery of a newborn who had been born without vital signs, attributed to the intercession of Archbishop Sheen.
Celebration and Significance
The announcement of the beatification date coincided with the Solemnity of the Annunciation, a detail that Monsignor Landry considered «very appropriate,» noting that Sheen dedicated his life to continuing the work of the angel Gabriel, calling for joy because the Lord is with us. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, will act as papal legate and main celebrant of the Mass, thus underscoring the missionary dimension of Sheen’s legacy. The Diocese of Peoria will also organize complementary events to celebrate this «wonderful occasion.»
Original source: www.aciprensa.com (published on March 25, 2026)
Photo: Jomarc Nicolai Cala on Unsplash
