Archbishop Fulton Sheen's Beatification Highlights His Legacy in American Religious Broadcasting

<p>Archbishop Fulton Sheen attracted millions of viewers in the United States with his television programs that focused on Christianity, morality, and communism. Conservative commentator Michael Knowles stated that Sheen's message would still resonate today, though he might be labeled a "far-right extremist." Knowles remarked, "I think he would be taking his first breath to utter the first syllable of the very first sentence just when someone called him a far-right extremist; he wouldn't need to change his message."</p><p>Sheen was beatified by the Roman Catholic Church on September 26, 2026, in St. Louis, which is a significant step towards potential sainthood for the prominent religious figure of the 20th century. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were among those celebrating Sheen's life, with the White House noting that he was the first American-born bishop to be beatified.</p><p>Before the rise of social media and podcasts, Sheen was one of America's most successful religious broadcasters. His radio show, "The Catholic Hour," reached over 4 million listeners, and his television program, "Life Is Worth Living," captivated around 30 million viewers. Sheen's format was straightforward, featuring him in clerical robes before a chalkboard, discussing faith, morality, and human dignity with a blend of theology, storytelling, and humor.</p><p>Knowles described Sheen as the first televangelist and noted his understanding of mass communication, stating, "He went where the people were." Sheen's influence extended beyond religious audiences, as he competed with major entertainers like Milton Berle and Frank Sinatra for weekly ratings, appeared on the cover of Time magazine, and won an Emmy for outstanding television personality.</p><p>Among those influenced by Sheen was a boy who would later become Pope Leo XIV, who recalled Sheen's evangelization during his youth. Knowles suggested that Sheen would have embraced modern platforms like podcasts and social media, but his traditional teachings might conflict with contemporary American culture. He speculated on what aspects of Sheen's beliefs might lead to him being "canceled" today, including his Catholicism and anti-communism.</p><p>Sheen's opposition to communism was a key aspect of his ministry, emphasized by the White House during his beatification. The presidential message highlighted Sheen's efforts to bring Christian teachings to a society threatened by communism. Sheen had warned in the 1960s about destructive impulses in American society, stating, "Our nation is too full of those that are crying, ‘Down.' Can you build anything down?"</p><p>Knowles argued that Sheen's warnings remain relevant today, as debates about human nature continue. He connected the appeal of communist and utopian movements to the Christian doctrine of original sin, asserting that political systems fail when they misinterpret human nature.</p><p>Sheen's beatification is based on the Catholic Church's evaluation of his religious life and a miracle attributed to his intercession. His cause for sainthood began in Peoria, Illinois, in 2002. The miracle recognized for his beatification involved a child born in 2010 without a heartbeat, who was revived after 61 minutes and later recovered fully. Pope Francis approved this miracle in 2019, marking a significant step in Sheen's path to beatification.</p><p>During the beatification Mass, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle emphasized Sheen's relationship with Christ and his missionary work rather than his fame. Sheen's connections to the modern papacy date back to his participation in the Second Vatican Council, where he met future popes. Shortly before his death in 1979, Sheen encountered Pope John Paul II, who praised him for his contributions to the Church.</p><p>Knowles noted that Sheen's ability to attract a large audience was not solely due to his theology or the novelty of television. He remarked, "He took life seriously. He just didn't take himself seriously," which allowed Sheen to address complex topics in an accessible manner. Knowles humorously suggested that people might discover Sheen through various aspects of his persona, including his traditionalism or formal attire.</p><p>Despite his celebrity status, Sheen maintained a deep spiritual practice, dedicating time each day to prayer before the Eucharist, which he referred to as "the hour that makes my day." Knowles concluded that while admiring Sheen is one thing, following his example is another, emphasizing the importance of embodying Sheen's teachings.</p>