Summary (tl;dr)

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen is being beatified on September 24, 2026, a crucial step toward sainthood in the Catholic Church, with EWTN providing extensive global coverage of the historic events.

Essential Background

Fulton J. Sheen was a prominent American Catholic evangelist, author, and Emmy-award-winning television personality who revolutionized the use of media for religious outreach in the 20th century, notably through his program "Life Is Worth Living". His path to canonization began in 2002, and he was declared "Venerable" by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012. In 2019, Pope Francis approved a miracle attributed to Sheen's intercession—the miraculous recovery of a stillborn child—clearing the way for his beatification, which was initially postponed but resumed in late 2025.

The Full Story

Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen is trending as his beatification ceremony is being held on September 24, 2026. The Beatification Mass is taking place at The Dome at America's Center in St. Louis, Missouri, presided over by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle. EWTN Global Catholic Network is offering comprehensive live coverage of the events from September 23-26, including evening prayers, the Beatification Mass, and thanksgiving liturgies from both St. Louis and Peoria, Illinois. This extensive programming also includes special features throughout September exploring Sheen's life and legacy. The beatification coincides with the recent release of a new book, "America's Apostle," published on September 15, 2026, which further explores Sheen's impact.

Why It Matters

Archbishop Sheen's beatification is a landmark event for the Catholic Church in the United States, as he is the first U.S.-born bishop to reach this significant stage on the path to sainthood. It underscores his lasting legacy as a pioneer in Catholic evangelization and media, whose clear and charitable communication of the Gospel continues to inspire millions across generations. EWTN's extensive global coverage ensures that this historic celebration, a powerful reminder of the universal call to holiness, reaches a broad audience.

Geographic Location

• The Dome at America's Center, St. Louis, St. Louis County, Missouri, United States (Beatification Mass and related events)
• Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, St. Louis, St. Louis County, Missouri, United States (Vespers for the Beatification)
• Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception, Peoria, Peoria County, Illinois, United States (Thanksgiving liturgies and novena broadcasts)