Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen's Beatification Set for September 24, 2026

The Vatican has announced that Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen will be beatified on September 24, 2026, at The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect for the Dicastery for Evangelization, will preside over the ceremony, which is expected to draw a significant number of attendees. Bishop Louis Tylka of the Diocese of Peoria emphasized the importance of this event, describing it as a "moment of immense grace for the Church," particularly for the Diocese of Peoria, where Sheen was born and served as a priest.

Sept. 24 beatification of Archbishop Sheen to be ‘a moment of immense grace’Venerable Fulton Sheen beatification set for Sept. 24 in St. LouisVatican sets date for Fulton Sheen’s beatification

Fulton Sheen, born on May 8, 1895, in El Paso, Illinois, was a prominent figure in American evangelization, known for his Emmy-winning television show "Life Is Worth Living." He served as the national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies from 1950 to 1966 and was consecrated as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of New York in 1951. His cause for canonization began in 2002, and he was declared venerable by Pope Benedict XVI in June 2012. A miracle attributed to his intercession—a stillborn baby recovering in 2010—was approved by the Vatican, paving the way for his beatification.

Venerable Fulton Sheen beatification set for Sept. 24 in St. Louis

• Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: A significant figure in 20th-century evangelization, known for his impactful preaching and media presence.

Venerable Fulton Sheen beatification set for Sept. 24 in St. Louis

• Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle: The papal legate who will celebrate the beatification Mass.

Sept. 24 beatification of Archbishop Sheen to be ‘a moment of immense grace’

• Bishop Louis Tylka: Bishop of Peoria, who has been vocal about the significance of Sheen's life and ministry.

Sept. 24 beatification of Archbishop Sheen to be ‘a moment of immense grace’

Bishop Tylka remarked, “This is a moment of immense grace for the Church... His life and ministry continue to inspire countless people to know and love Jesus Christ more deeply.” Monsignor Roger Landry expressed "indescribable joy" at the announcement, highlighting Sheen's lasting impact on the Church's mission work. He noted that Cardinal Tagle's role in the ceremony would emphasize Sheen's contributions to evangelization.

Sept. 24 beatification of Archbishop Sheen to be ‘a moment of immense grace’

While the announcement of Sheen's beatification has been met with enthusiasm, it follows a period of controversy regarding the handling of his remains and allegations of misconduct within the Diocese of Rochester. These issues delayed the beatification, originally scheduled for December 2019, but have since been resolved, with no substantiated accusations against Sheen.

Vatican sets date for Fulton Sheen’s beatification

• “This is a moment of immense grace for the Church — especially for us in the Diocese of Peoria, where Archbishop Sheen was born, ordained, and first served as a priest,” — Bishop Louis Tylka

Sept. 24 beatification of Archbishop Sheen to be ‘a moment of immense grace’

• “I have long admired his lifelong commitment to serve the Church as a priest, rooted in his deep devotion to the Blessed Mother and the Eucharist,” — Bishop Louis Tylka

Sept. 24 beatification of Archbishop Sheen to be ‘a moment of immense grace’

• “I can’t wait to be in St. Louis on September 24 celebrating with Catholics from across the states and the world.” — Monsignor Roger Landry

Sept. 24 beatification of Archbishop Sheen to be ‘a moment of immense grace’

The beatification ceremony is set for September 24, 2026, and will be accompanied by various events in Peoria to celebrate Sheen's legacy. The Vatican's announcement has reignited interest in Sheen's life and contributions, and preparations for the event are underway.

Venerable Fulton Sheen beatification set for Sept. 24 in St. Louis