Bishop Fulton Sheen: 84 Years of a Blessed Life

Learn about the storied life of one of the most influential Catholic preachers and media personalities of the 20th century: Bishop Fulton Sheen

Early Life and Education: Fulton John Sheen was born on May 8, 1895, in El Paso, Illinois, USA. He was the eldest of four sons in a devout Catholic family. From a young age, Sheen displayed an exceptional intellect and a strong interest in religious matters. He attended St. Mary’s Cathedral Grade School in Peoria, Illinois, where his academic abilities were evident. His passion for the Catholic faith led him to pursue studies at St. Viator College in Bourbonnais, Illinois, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1917.

Ordination and Early Career: In 1919, Sheen traveled to Rome to study at the Pontifical Urbaniana University. There, he earned a Doctorate in Sacred Theology summa cum laude and was ordained to the priesthood on September 20, 1919. After returning to the United States, Sheen began his ministry as a parish priest in the Diocese of Peoria, Illinois. His exceptional oratory skills and engaging sermons quickly gained him popularity among the congregation and beyond.

Rise to Prominence: In 1926, Fulton Sheen was granted permission to continue his studies in Belgium, where he earned a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the Catholic University of Leuven. Upon his return to the United States, he was appointed a professor of philosophy and religion at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. During this time, Sheen’s talent as a speaker continued to shine, and he was invited to give regular radio addresses on The Catholic Hour, reaching millions of listeners nationwide. His eloquence and engaging manner endeared him to a diverse audience, and he became a prominent figure in American Catholicism.

Television Career: In 1951, Bishop Sheen transitioned to television, hosting the popular television show “Life is Worth Living.” The show’s format featured Sheen delivering inspirational messages, discussing theology, and exploring moral and ethical issues. It quickly became a tremendous success, attracting a wide viewership. “Life is Worth Living” won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Television Program in 1952, further solidifying Sheen’s fame and influence.

Bishop Sheen with Dumont Television in production of his famous TV series “Life is Worth Living”.

Bishop and Later Career: On June 11, 1951, Fulton J. Sheen was consecrated as an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of New York. He was known for his genuine care for others, his charisma, and his ability to reach people of all backgrounds. Bishop Sheen’s commitment to social justice issues, such as civil rights and the fight against poverty, earned him respect not only within the Catholic community but also in the broader society.

Later Life and Legacy: In 1966, Sheen was appointed as the Bishop of the Diocese of Rochester, New York. Despite his busy schedule, he continued his television and radio work, spreading his message of hope, love, and faith to an ever-widening audience. Throughout his career, he authored over 60 books, covering a wide range of topics related to spirituality, theology, and ethics.

Bishop Sheen meets Pope John Paul II: Bishop Fulton J. Sheen’s dedication to his ministry and his impact on the Catholic Church and society at large were profound. In October of 1979, Bishop Sheen met with Pope John Paul II at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. For both Bishop Sheen and Pope John Paul II, the meeting held great personal and spiritual significance. For Bishop Sheen, it was an affirmation of his life’s work and a recognition of his impact on the Catholic Church. As for Pope John Paul II, meeting a respected and esteemed figure like Bishop Sheen was an opportunity to gain insights from a veteran of the Church and to pay homage to a man who had dedicated his life to serving God and spreading His word.

Bishop Sheen passed away on December 9, 1979, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy of eloquence, compassion, and commitment to faith. His cause for canonization as a saint was officially opened by the Diocese of Peoria in 2002, recognizing his virtues and the impact of his life’s work. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential Catholic preachers and media personalities of the 20th century.