Fulton Sheen’s path to sainthood continues to inspire millions. Recently, Terry Barber interviewed Msgr. Jason Gray, the executive director of the Fulton Sheen Foundation, to discuss the current status of Sheen’s cause for beatification.
Who is Fulton Sheen
Fulton J. Sheen was a renowned Catholic archbishop, author, and pioneer in religious broadcasting. Ordained in 1919, he became a household name through his radio program, The Catholic Hour, and his Emmy-winning television series, Life is Worth Living. He was known for his ability to explain deep theology and philosophy in a way that common people could easily understand.
Where is Fulton Sheen’s body now?
At the request of his family, Archbishop Sheen’s body was moved from St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York to Peoria, Illinois, in the summer of 2019. His remains are now reposed in a marble tomb at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Peoria, where he was originally ordained a priest
Why is he a candidate for sainthood?
Sheen is a candidate because of his “heroic virtue” and his immense zeal for saving souls. He lived a life of deep devotion, particularly to the Blessed Mother and the daily Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament. Pope John Paul II once described him as a “loyal son of the church” who spoke and wrote well of Jesus Christ.
What miracle was approved for his beatification?
The miracle approved by Pope Francis in 2019 involved the 2010 birth of a baby boy named James Fulton Engstrom. The child was born without a heartbeat or respiration for 61 minutes. After his parents prayed for Sheen’s intercession, the baby not only survived but has thrived without any brain damage or medical complications.
Why was the beatification delayed?
While set to take place in late 2019, the ceremony was paused due to concerns within the U.S. hierarchy. At the time, New York dioceses were facing many lawsuits after the statute of limitations for abuse cases was lifted. Out of prudence, the Church decided to pause the cause to ensure Sheen’s record was perfectly clean.
What has Rome recently said about advancing his cause?
Msgr. Gray noted that Rome is satisfied with the investigations, which proved that Sheen handled all cases of misconduct properly during his time as a bishop. He said, “Sheen is Clean.” The Vatican is essentially waiting for the “opportune time” according to the U.S. bishops, but the cause remains active and the outcome is considered “inevitable”.
What are the other 5 miracles in the pipeline?
There are currently five other reported miracles being investigated for Sheen’s future canonization
- An Italian Priest: Recovered from severe carbon monoxide poisoning after prayers were offered to Sheen
- An Elderly Person: Recovered from a serious illness
- Three Newborn Babies: Cases involving premature birth or trauma during birth, such as lack of oxygen to the brain, where the children recovered unexpectedly.
Fulton Sheen’s Books
Several influential books by Fulton Sheen were highlighted during the interview:
- Treasure in Clay: His autobiography, which discusses his “zeal for souls” and his views on the “electronic gospel”
- Three to Get Married: A highly recommended book about the nature of Christian marriage
- A Priest Is Not His Own: A book often credited with helping men solidify their vocations to the priesthood
- The Quotable Sheen: A collection of his famous one-liners and insights
Prayer For Canonization of Fulton J. Sheen
IMPRIMATUR+ Most Rev. Daniel R. Jenky, C.S.C., Bishop of Peoria
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 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.
