BREAKING Archbishop Fulton Sheen Officially on the Path to Sainthood after 6-Year Pause - with an Approved Miracle

On February 9, 2026, the Diocese of Peoria announced that the Vatican has cleared the way for the beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, ending a six-year pause. The process was originally postponed in 2019 due to concerns regarding Sheen's tenure as Bishop of Rochester (1966–1969) and potential oversight of clergy abuse; however, subsequent investigations and the resolution of the Rochester Diocese’s bankruptcy in 2025 concluded with no allegations of misconduct against Sheen himself.

Known as "God’s microphone," the Emmy-winning 20th-century evangelist reached millions through radio and television. While a specific date and location for the ceremony are yet to be determined, his elevation to "Blessed" marks the final step before potential sainthood, celebrating a legacy defined by innovative evangelization and deep devotion to the Eucharist.

Miracle approved by Pope Francis in 2019: The case involved a stillborn baby born in September 2010. For over an hour the child demonstrated no signs of life as medical professionals attempted every possible life saving procedure, while the child's parents and loved ones began immediately to seek the intercession of Fulton Sheen. After 61 minutes the baby was restored to full life and over three years later demonstrates a full recovery.

Statement regarding the cause of Fulton Sheen moving toward beatification from Bishop Louis Tylka, Diocese of Peoria
Feb 9

“The Holy See has informed me that the Cause for the Venerable Servant of God Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen can proceed to Beatification. The next step in the process is the celebration of the Beatification, in which Fulton Sheen would be declared Blessed.

In the Catholic Church, beatification is the first major step to sainthood, granting a deceased person the title "Blessed" and allowing limited public veneration (like in a region) after proving heroic virtue and one verified miracle. Canonization is the final step, declaring the person a saint, permitting worship across the entire Church, and requiring a second miracle after beatification, making their veneration universal.

Essentially, beatification opens the door for local honor, while canonization opens it for the whole world, recognizing a saint as being in heaven with God.

We are working with the Dicastery of the Causes of Saints at the Vatican to determine the details for the upcoming Beatification. The date and event details will be released soon through celebratesheen.com.

Archbishop Sheen was declared Venerable when Pope Benedict XVI recognized his life of heroic virtue on June 28, 2012. The miracle attributed to Sheen’s intercession was recognized by Pope Francis on July 6, 2019.

Archbishop Fulton Sheen was one of the greatest voices of evangelization in the Church and the world in the 20th century. 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. As he journeyed through the different stages of his life, his ability to share the Gospel and truly relate to people drew countless souls into an encounter with Jesus—one that transformed not only his life, but more importantly, the lives of those he touched. In his later years, particularly through his work for the Missions, Archbishop Sheen helped us recognize that the Church is meant for all people. He reminded us that as members of the Church, we are called to serve everyone, especially those most in need and those longing to hear and experience the Gospel, wherever they may be in the world.

I am particularly thankful for the collaboration, assistance, generosity, and prayers from the Holy See, my brother Bishops, clergy and lay people from around the world in moving this cause forward. Archbishop Sheen will be a special blessing for the Church in the United States, where he was a powerful evangelist on radio, television, and in personal appearances. Throughout the world, Sheen led the Society for the Propagation of the Faith and sustained the work of the Missions throughout the world. The Church in Peoria rejoices with all of you in honoring this heroic Bishop and leader in the Church.”

+Bishop Louis Tylka, Diocese of Peoria

About the Archbishop Fulton Sheen Foundation:

The Archbishop Fulton Sheen Foundation is the official organization promoting the Cause for Canonization of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. Established under the auspices of the Diocese of Peoria, the Foundation is dedicated to preserving and sharing Sheen’s life, writings, and teachings, and to fostering devotion to his example of faith. Learn more at celebratesheen.com

About the Catholic Diocese of Peoria:

The Diocese of Peoria, led by Bishop Louis Tylka, serves Catholics of Central Illinois, across 26 counties, rooted in its mission to become a vibrant, mission-driven, and sustainable Church. The Diocese is guided by Five Foundations: empowering evangelization, inspiring discipleship, strengthening vocations, The Eucharist, and promoting the life and legacy of Venerable Fulton J. Sheen. The Diocese lives its mission, embracing the call to “Go Make Disciples.” Learn more at cdop.org.

Source: https://www.celebratesheen.com/news/sheen-beatification