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After earning high school valedictorian honors at Spalding Insititute in Peoria in 1913, Sheen was educated at St. Viator College, Bourbonnais, Illinois. Making the debating team in his freshman year, his coach called him aside the night before a major debate with the University of Notre Dame, and told him bluntly: "Sheen, you're absolutely the worst speaker I ever heard."
Sheen attended Saint Paul Seminary in Minnesota before his ordination on September 20, 1919, then followed that with further studies at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. His youthful appearance was still evident on one occasion when a local priest who was unable to celebrate Mass asked Sheen to substitute for him. Arriving at the parish, the pastor curtly told him, "Get over to the church. The other altar boys are dressed already."
Sheen earned a doctorate in philosophy at the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium in 1923. While there, he became the first American ever to win the Cardinal Mercier award for the best philosophical treatise.
Sheen then taught theology at St. Edmund's College, Ware in England, In 1926, the Bishop of his hometown in Peoria asked him to take over St. Patrick's Parish. After eight months, Sheen returned to Catholic University to teach philosophy.
Fulton J. Sheen featured on the April 14, 1952 issue of Time
A popular instructor, Sheen wrote the first of some 90 books in 1925, and in 1930 began a weekly Sunday night radio broadcast, The Catholic Hour. Two decades later, the broadcast had a weekly listening audience of four million people. During the middle of this era, he conducted the first religious service broadcast on the new medium of television, putting in motion a new avenue for his religious pursuits.
Sheen was also credited with helping convert a number of notable figures to the Catholic faith. One of his first converts was writer Heywood Broun, who had been critical of Sheen's stance on evolution, but after countless discussions with the priest, changed his mind. Others who followed in Broun's footsteps included politician Clare Boothe Luce and automaker Henry Ford II.
Sheen served as Auxiliary Bishop of New York from 1951 to 1965. In 1951 he also began a weekly television program on the DuMont network, Life is Worth Living. The show, scheduled for Tuesday nights at 8:00 p.m., was not expected to offer much of a challenge against ratings giants Milton Berle and Frank Sinatra, but surprisingly held its own, causing Berle to joke, "He uses old material, too". In 1952, Sheen won an Emmy Award for his efforts, accepting the acknowledgement by saying, "I feel it is time I pay tribute to my four writers. Matthew, Mark, Luke and John."
The program consisted of Sheen simply speaking in front of a live audience, often speaking on the theology of current topics such as the evils of communism or the usage of psychology. One of his best remembered presentations came in February 1953, when he forcefully denounced the Soviet regime of Joseph Stalin. Sheen gave a dramatic reading of the burial scene from Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, substituting the names of Caesar, Cassius, Marc Antony, and Brutus with those of prominent Soviet leaders: Stalin, Beria, Malenkov, and Vishinsky. From the bishop's lips came the pronouncement, "Stalin must one day meet his judgment." On March 5, 1953, Stalin died.
The show would run until 1957, drawing as many as 30 million people on a weekly basis. In 1958, he became national director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, serving for eight years before being appointed Bishop of Rochester on October 26, 1966. Sheen also hosted a nationally-syndicated series, The Fulton Sheen Program, from 1961 to 1968 (first in black and white and then in color). The format of this series was basically the same as Life is Worth Living.
While serving in Rochester, he created the Sheen Ecumenical Housing Foundation, which survives to this day. However, his continuing celebrity status led to travels outside the diocese, preventing him from establishing a close relationship with parishioners. That situation was compounded with his controversial stance on racial issues and his denunciation of the Vietnam War in August 1967. On October 15, 1969, one month after celebrating his 50th anniversary as a priest, Sheen resigned from his position and was then appointed Archbishop of the Titular See of Newport (Wales) by Pope Paul VI. The largely ceremonial position allowed Sheen to continue his extensive writing.
On October 2, 1979, two months before Sheen's death, Pope John Paul II visited St. Patrick's Cathedral, New York and embraced Sheen, saying, "You have written and spoken well of the Lord Jesus Christ. You are a loyal son of the Church." Sheen is buried in St. Patrick's Cathedral.
In 2002 Sheen's Cause for Canonization was officially opened, and so he is now referred to as a Servant of God.
Reruns of Sheen's various programs continue to air on the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) and the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN).
Bishop Sheen wrote 96 books and hundreds of articles and columns.
Phone Toll Free 877-461-8608
Sheen Gems: The Best of Fulton J. Sheen, Volumes 1-2. These are excerpts re-mastered from Bishop Sheen's Emmy Award Winning Television program, "Life is Worth Living." Bishop Sheen's spiritual presence, holiness and evocative power that resulted in millions of viewers each week are shown to be timeless. His words of wit and wisdom transcend the years. His eloquence portrays the sacred truth that in every human heart there is a struggle known only to the soul and to God. Even Billy Graham calls Fulton Sheen "the greatest communicator of the twentieth century." His canonization cause is underway. As Archbishop Sheen said, "Christ is longing to change your life in ways more wondrous. 110 minutes, VHS or DVD. Our prices slashed by $10.00 for Christmas 2006 to $19.95.
Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: A Prophet in Our Time with Fr. Andrew Apostoli.
"Ye Shall Know the Truth": A Catholic Catechism by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. Listen to one of the world's most renown speakers and thinkers of the twentieth century, who cause for sainthood is under consideration, teach the Catholic Faith in this magnificent series of 50 conferences on 25 CD's. Topics include:Truths for a Troubled Time by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, 6 cassettes. Bishop Sheen combats the confusion and evil of today with timeless words of wisdom and shows us ways to break down the barriers to the Divine. In this two part series you will learn:
 | The reasons for violence in society |
| How Satan disrupts and divides the Church |
| Why the Cross was necessary for our Salvation |
| The secret to inner Peace |
| How prayer helps us to understand the ways of God |
| How to get the most out of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass |
Angels by Fulton J. Sheen. Angels have existed from the beginning of time as God’s messengers, God's helpers. Today people are rediscovering the existence of Angels and the wonderful work they perform on God’s behalf. The existence of the work of Angels required no revelation to Bishop Fulton J. Sheen, who enjoyed a speical prayer relationship with God's spiritual beings.
The Immemorial Tridentine Mass narrated by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, DVD. Bishop Sheen explains the tradition Mass in this magnificent 1940 recording of a sung High Easter Mass in Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Chicago. The Mass is accompanied with a choir and orchestral accompaniment. Remastered $23.95 DVD
A Family Retreat with Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, DVD. One of Bishop Sheen's best retreats covering a dozen topics including Choice, Our Father, Old Pots, Youth and Sex, the Devil, Our Cross, Kenosis, Confession, Three Kinds of Love, The Meaning of the Mass, Wasting Your Life and the Woman I Love. DVD
Called and Chosen by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen-Originally given as a retreat fr Irish clergy, Bishop Sheen shares his views on what it means to be a priest.
The Luminous Mysteries: New Light in Time of Darkness by Fr. Mitch Pacwa, S. J., Fr. Bill Casey, CPM and Bishop Fulton J. Sheen--Three powerful presentations on the import and impact of the Rosary in this year of the Rosary. This classic presentation features a fascinating history of the Rosary and includes the beloved prelate, Bishop Fulton J. Sheen's, moving recital of "Lovely Lady Dressed in Blue". Available now on three cassettes or CDs, The Luminous Mysteries: New Light in a Time of Darkness will empower you to fulfill the words of the Holy Father and, "rediscover the mystical depth contained in the simplicity of this prayer, so much loved by popular tradition" and deepen your union with Christ through Mary.
Pathways to Christ by Archbishop Fulton Sheen--Discover deep insight and endless inspiration............Let Archbishop Fulton Sheen provide guidance and direction to spiritually survive and even thrive in today's turbulent times. $17.95 (3 Audio Tapes)
Renewal and Reconciliation by Archbishop Fulton Sheen--Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen meditates upon what each of us must do to be faithful followers of Christ today. Recorded live, these twelve spiritual conferences will stir your soul to respond with greater faith to the many "tests" you encounter today. Rather than succumbing in fear and hopelessness, Bishop Sheen's rich insights pave the way for you to face these challenges and embrace the tremendous graces poured out in abundance to those who seek them. Once this happens, you'll discover why the Archbishop asserts, "the only argument that is left to convince others is holiness." By reexamining our fallen nature and probing societal conditions, Bishop Sheen covered timely topics such as guilt and sin, social justice and human suffering, prayer and the demonic, and much more! Sheen's compelling stories, literary references and Scriptural exegesis powerfully reinforced the important points presented and made them tangible and easily applicable to everyday life.
Sign of Contradiction: Good Friday and Beyond by Archbishop Fulton Sheen--On April 8, 1977, a record crowd of over 6,000 worshippers came to St. Agnes Catholic Church in New York City to attend the Good Friday Service given by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. This was the very same church where, 50 years before, Sheen delivered his first three-hour Good Friday Service as a young priest. Now the church was filled to capacity, along with the school cafeteria, gymnasium and classrooms. Finally, NY Police had to shut down traffic on 43rd and 44th streets to protect the faithful who crowded the sidewalks outside the church, where loudspeakers carried the inspired words of the beloved prelate. The TV networks broadcast the Archbishop's remarks on the evening news and the enlightening event made the front page of the New York Times. This was truly Archbishop Sheen's finest hour. At long last this historic presentation is again available to the Catholic faithful. Digitally re-mastered and combined with six more newly re-mastered talks on five CDs (or audio tapes) the powerful, soul-changing presentations on Sign of Contradiction: Good Friday and Beyond are the highest quality audio recordings of Archbishop Sheen's inspirational genius available today. But it is the message these tapes convey that makes this series essential listening for every faithful Catholic. Hearing his profound and prophetic revelations, you'll experience the drama and intensity, the winsome humor and the unshakable devotion to the truth that made Bishop Sheen the "greatest preacher of the 20th Century."
Thou Art a Priest Forever by Archbishop Fulton
Sheen, Fr. John Corapi, Dr. Scott Hahn, and Fr. Joseph Fessio--Four
great reflections on the vocation and ministry of a priest and the challenges
facing the priesthood today. Inspiring.
$21.95
(4
Audio Tapes)
What Now America? by Archbishop Fulton Sheen, VHS--Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen looks at America's future in this special series of 13 programs. It is a progress report on the world in general, and America in particular. More importantly, though, these programs form a blueprint for our transition into the 21st century from one of the great communicators of the 20th century., (2 VHS, 390 min. total)
True Meaning of Easter by Archbishop Fulton
Sheen--In
this enlightening and inspirational production the story of the Passion, Death
and Resurrection of Jesus is recounted in the magnificent English of the
traditional Catholic translation of the Bible, supported by the unforgettable
words of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen and underscored by the timeless beauty of
Gregorian chant and sweeping orchestral music reminiscent of a fine film score.
This is one presentation you'll definitely want to share with family and
friends. Destined to be a modern classic, this high-quality digital presentation
will undoubtedly become a treasured family tradition for generations to come.
Order today and prepare to experience The True Meaning of Easter.
$9.95
(1
CD)
Truth for a Troubled Age by Archbishop
Fulton J. Sheen, Parts I & II--Archbishop Sheen
is a legend amongst Catholics because of his popular TV and radio shows which
ministered to millions of Catholics and non-Catholics alike over a period of
forty years. His timeless words of wisdom combat the confusion and evils of
today as he addresses such issues as the theater of redemption and the reasons
for violence in society. Includes a never before released talk entitled "The
Revolutionary Age to Come" in which he takes on a prophetic voice.
$17.95 (3 Audio
Tapes) Volume 1
$17.95 (3 Audio
Tapes) Volume 2
A Voice From Calvary by Archbishop Fulton Sheen--Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen understood suffering. Forced to undergo three major heart surgeries, he spent months recuperating. Yet this time was not wasted, because the beloved Prelate willingly embraced this affliction and meditated deeply upon Our Lord's Passion and Death, pondering its significance for today. What life-changing lessons did he learn? What new insights did he gain? How did Sheen's own sufferings shed new light on the salvific actions of Christ? Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen reflects upon Christ's last discourse given as He gasped for His final breaths of air. Recorded live at the historic St. Agnes Church in downtown Manhattan, and digitally re-mastered, you'll be privileged to listen and learn as he imparts spiritual secrets to lasting happiness and enduring holiness. His superb and eloquent words impart wisdom that will renew your understanding of what it means to be a Christian, especially in today's troubled times. They also invite us to partake in the ongoing work of Redemption. For as St. Paul teaches, "I must fill up in my own body what is lacking in the sufferings of Christ."
Your Life Is Worth Living by Fulton J. Sheen--This
work was the culmination of 15 years of service as National Director of the
Society for the Propagation of the Faith missionary work.
Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen was one of the greatest
orator of the twentieth century in the matters of morality and faith. His
writings displayed a great inner creativity and understanding of the human mind
and more importantly, the human spirit. He discusses profound truths in a
conversational easy to understand style.
Vintage Sheen by Archbishop
Fulton J. Sheen-
a classic collection that has never before been
released until now. Great vintage Sheen! This collection is moving,
inspiring and even profound. Price slashed for Christmas! Includes classic Sheen talks on:
1)
The
Church and the World; 2)
Christ: Priest and Victim;
3)
Sin and Guilt;
4)Kenosis-Emptying;
5)The Daily Holy Hour;
6)Continuing the Incarnation; 7) Continuing
Calvary; 8) Zealous Fools for Christ's Sake;
9)The Holy Spirit;
10)The Church, The Body
of Christ; 11)Satan and Evil; 12) Discipleship and Betrayal (Judas);
13)The Woman I Love
(Mary, Part 1); 14)The Woman I Love-Concluded; 15)Betrayal an Forgiveness; 16)The Mass'
Chief sacrific
$22.95
(Book)
New! A Christian Philosophy of Life by Archbishop
Fulton J. Sheen-
a classic collection of 50 talks by Bishop Sheen on CD $23.95
including Philosophy of Life, Revealed Truth, Good and Evil, New Testament
Revelation, Sufferings, Death and Resurrection, Ascension, The Mass, Penance,
The Hell There is, Purgatory, Womanhood in Religion, Heaven is Not so Far Away,
Marriage Problems, etc.
His Last Words: Sheen.
On
Good Friday, 1979, a television crew came to St. Agnes Church in New York to
tape a news piece on Bishop Sheen, but were so enthralled they taped his entire
talk. This long, lost talk has now been digitally re-mastered. Since
he died later that year it has been entitled "His Last Words." This adds to the
collection of Bishop Sheen's 95 books and countless tapes another masterpiece in
sacred theology and common sense, that made his TV show an Emmy award winner
lauded by Rev. Billy Graham and many others and watched by 30 million people
weekly. That same year Pope John Paul II embraced him in a meeting telling
him, "You have spoken and written well of Our Lord Jesus Christ. You are a
loyal son of the Church."
Retreat for People on the Go by Archbishop Fulton Sheen--8 audio tapes: Topics include: 1.Misunderstanding the world; 2.Jesus the Eternal High Priest; 3.The Denial of sin; 4.Triple Transference; 5.the Drama of the Mass; 6.Memorial of the Cross; 7.Persevering prayer; 8.the Incarnation; 9.the Passion of the Christ; 10.Power of Resurrection; 11.Mother and the Spouse; 12.The Hour of Testing; 13.The Betrayal of Judas; 14.The Power of the Devil; 15.The Fall and Conversion of Peter. Prices slashed for Christmas!
Prayer as Dialogue; World Soul and Things. This audio tape is a best seller. Another of Bishop Sheen gems of faith and reason.
Modern man: Does he need Confession? A much needed motivating discussion for our age, when too few taken advantage of the sacrament which the Catechism notes, "When Christ's faithful strive to confess all that that they can remember, they undoubtedly place all of them before the divine mercy for pardon." But those who fail to do so are compared to the sick person who is "to ashamed to show his wound to the doctor."
Life of Christ by Fulton J. Sheen. This is undoubtedly Bishop Sheen's greatest work. It is full of brilliant and touching insights into the life of Jesus that only a truly dedicated and deeply devoted Christian could produce and it is capable of bringing you to tears and informing your mind on the beautiful fulfillment of the Old Testament in the New Testament in a most impressive and powerful manner. Now listen to this book on 15 audio cassettes read beautifully by Mark Taheny. Like his television show, you will find that this book appeals to Christians of all denominations because of its extraordinary depth. This book will give you a greater love for Jesus Christ. As one reviewer noted, "... the depth of understanding of Christ's life, death and resurrection that Sheen imparts to the reader is simply priceless. Chapters 49 and 50 alone (Sheen's expansion of the Seven Last Words from the cross) are absolute gems and alone worth the price, don't miss this audio book."
Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen hosted by Bob and Penny Lord. This video is based on a chapter from the book, Saints and Other Powerful Men of the Church by Bob and Penny Lord. Takes you through the life of this 20th century apostle as he defended the Church, single-handedly at times, against her enemies. Learn about the beginnings of electronic evangelization as practiced by its greatest exponent, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. (VHS, 30 minutes)
Life is Worth Living by Fulton J. Sheen on CD. This set of 18 CD's (25 programs) is digitally re-mastered with state-of-the-art technology and these are the cleanest, best-sounding presentations by Archbishop Sheen. His words are inspiring and so much so that he is always on our best sellers list. This magnificent series is the most comprehensive explanation of the Catholic vision of life ever offered and every Catholic home should have a copy. At $89.95 is only $2 per talk but we are selling for only $79.95.
Vale La Pena Vivir La Vida by Fulton J. Sheen on CD
Good Friday Special by Fulton J. Sheen in DVDBishop Sheen delivered many famous sermons on Good Friday to over-flowing churches, and this presentation from his own television series is another powerful message. His superb words ring with answers for today's realities, offering his unique insights on the meaning of Christ's passion and death for modern Christians., (DVD, 50 min.)
The Centurions of Rome by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, cassette. Produced by Keep the Faith.
*Click here for books by Bishop Fulton J. Sheen
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