Vatican Approves Fulton Sheen Beatification

The Vatican has once again approved the beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, a prominent U.S. radio and TV preacher. This decision comes after a six-year delay caused by concerns regarding his handling of clergy sexual misconduct cases and a legal battle over his remains. The Diocese of Peoria announced the renewed approval, with the ceremony expected to take place in Peoria. Pope Francis had initially confirmed a miracle attributed to Fulton J. Sheen in 2019, but the beatification was postponed after the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester requested further investigation into Fulton J. Sheen's tenure. An investigation reportedly cleared Fulton J. Sheen of wrongdoing. The event is notable for occurring during the pontificate of Pope Leo XVI, who, like Fulton J. Sheen, is from Illinois. Pontifical Mission Societies in the United States, an organization Fulton J. Sheen once led, also celebrated the news.