Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen (1895–1979)
Catholic University's Great Communicator
Since its founding in 1887, no one associated with The Catholic University of America has had a greater impact on the world than Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. A formidable scholar, prolific author, and Catholic University professor for 23 years, Archbishop Sheen was also a charismatic radio and television personality and a zealous preacher of the Gospel. His whole-hearted embrace of modern means of communication gave him access to millions of American homes, and made him arguably the most influential American Catholic of the 20th century and a pioneer of the new evangelization.
Archbishop Sheen is currently a candidate to become the first native son of the United States raised to the dignity of sainthood. In June 2012, Pope Benedict XVI declared him "venerable." In March 2014, the board of medical experts who advise the Congregation for the Causes of the Saints unanimously approved a reported miracle attributed to his intercession. On June 17, 2014, the congregation's seven-member theological commission unanimously agreed with the medical team's finding.
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On, Sept. 3, 2014, Bishop Daniel R. Jenky of Peoria announced that the canonization cause of Archbishop Fulton Sheen had been suspended because of a dispute between the Diocese or Peoria and the Archdiocese of New York over custody of Sheen's mortal remains. The suspension is expected to be temporary, according to Dr. Andrea Ambrosi, postulator of the cause. |
The next step in the case will be to move it to the cardinals and bishops who advise the Pope on canonization causes. If Archbishop Sheen's cause and the miracle attributed to him is validated by the Pope, he would then be declared "blessed." A second miracle would need to be validated before he would be declared a saint.
The University invites the CUA community and all those who honor Archbishop Sheen's memory to join us in celebrating his exemplary life and supporting his cause for canonization.
Sheen at Catholic University
First as a student, then for 23 years as a professor, Archbishop Sheen was deeply connected to Catholic University.
His Enduring Impact
The University still looks to Archbishop Sheen as a role model and inspiration.
New Evangelization Pioneer
With his radio and TV shows, Archbishop Sheen was the first to bring the Gospel to a mass media audience.
The Cause for Canonization
Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed him venerable. The next step for Archbishop Sheen would be beatification.
Biography
Catholic University was the base from which Fulton Sheen launched his extraordinary career.
Prayer for the Canonization
of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen
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 honor and 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.
