The beatification of Fulton J. Sheen is scheduled for Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. The Beatification Mass will be held at The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle will preside as the representative of Pope Leo XIV.

In addition to the Mass in St. Louis, the Diocese of Peoria has announced several related celebrations and pilgrimage events in and around Peoria during the week of September 20–26, 2026.

For information about tickets, lodging, and the full schedule of events, see: Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation Beatification Information

The miracle attributed to Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

• The Incident (September 16, 2010): Bonnie and Travis Engstrom’s newborn, James, was delivered stillborn with a severely knotted umbilical cord. He showed no signs of life and was blue and pulseless.
• The Intercession: Resuscitation efforts and epinephrine injections failed. After 61 minutes, as emergency room medical personnel at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria were about to declare a time of death, the parents continued to pray intensely to Archbishop Sheen.
• The Revival: Instantly, James’s heart unexpectedly started beating at a healthy, normal rate of 148 beats per minute. [1]
• Vatican Approval: A panel of seven medical specialists concluded the boy’s recovery and subsequent normal development defied scientific explanation. In 2019, Pope Francis officially approved this as a miracle attributed to Sheen’s intercession, clearing the way for his beatification.
• Read more about this miracle at: https://www.oursundayvisitor.com/the-miracle-that-will-make-archbishop-fulton-sheen-blessed/

About Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen (1895–1979) was born on May 8, 1895, in El Paso, Illinois, and was raised in Peoria, Illinois. He served as an altar boy and was ordained as a priest on September 20, 1919, at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Peoria, Illinois, for the Diocese of Peoria.

He was a renowned Catholic bishop, author, radio and television evangelist whose preaching and media ministry continue to inspire millions around the world. His spiritual life centered on making a daily Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament.

His Cause for Canonization was opened in 2002 by the Diocese of Peoria, Illinois, led by Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, giving him the title Servant of God.

In 2012, Pope Benedict XVI declared him Venerable, recognizing his heroic virtue. A miracle attributed to his intercession—the healing of infant James Fulton Engstrom after being born without a detectable heartbeat—was approved by Pope Francis in 2019.

As a result of this approved miracle, Pope Leo XIV authorized Sheen’s beatification, which will be celebrated on September 24, 2026. The Diocese of Peoria is coordinating with the Archdiocese of St. Louis on a multi day pilgrimage. At that time, he will receive the title Blessed Fulton J. Sheen. The official cause is promoted by the Archbishop Fulton John Sheen Foundation.

The path to sainthood in the Catholic Church follows four stages: Servant of God, Venerable, Blessed, and Saint. Canonization as a saint normally requires a second approved miracle after beatification.

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen’s is a candidate for sainthood who may become the first native-born United States Bishop to be canonized-a Saint.

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Thank You, NACN, for Sponsoring the Beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

The State Representative of Illinois – Beverly Ann Stewart- and on behalf of our members, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who made possible NACN participation in supporting the beatification cause of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen.

For many years, Catholic nurses across the nation have followed with great anticipation the journey toward Archbishop Sheen’s beatification. His witness of faith, evangelization, and commitment to bringing Christ to the world continues to inspire healthcare professionals who seek to unite faith and service in their daily practice.

Adding to the significance of this moment is the connection between Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen and Pope Leo XIV. Both men share roots in Illinois, a state blessed by their remarkable contributions to the Church. Their shared connection serves as a reminder that holiness and faithful leadership can emerge from our own communities and inspire generations.

NACN-USA was honored to receive an invitation from the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation in Peoria, Illinois, inviting the Association to become a sponsor in support of the beatification celebration. Following receipt of this invitation, a motion was presented to the NACN-USA Board of Directors for consideration.

The motion was subsequently circulated electronically to the Board of Directors for consideration. The motion was duly seconded, and the Board members voted via email to approve it, reflecting the Board’s support for honoring the life and legacy of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen.

We -NACN members -of this great nation and in the great State of Illinois extend our sincere appreciation to every member of the Board of Directors for their leadership, discernment, and support in approving this sponsorship. Their dedication ensures that NACN-USA continues to be a visible presence in the life of the Church and a faithful advocate for Catholic nursing.

As preparations continue, we encourage NACN-USA members who attend any beatification-related events or ceremonies to share their photographs and experiences with the Association. These images will help commemorate this historic occasion and allow members across the country to participate in the celebration of Archbishop Sheen’s legacy.

May Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen’s example of holiness, courage, and evangelization continue to inspire Catholic nurses to bring the healing presence of Christ to every bedside.

“Who is going to save our Church? Not our bishops, not our priests and religious. It is up to you, the people.” — Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Thank you, NACN-USA Board of Directors, for your support of this historic and grace-filled endeavor.

– Submitted by Illinois State Representative Beverly Ann Stewart & Region V Director Sylvia Suarez-Ponce