Now that the remains of the Venerable Archbishop Fulton J Sheen are in Peoria, IL, we decided to take a field trip to venerate his remains and to learn more about him. It was such a cool experience. The best part was when my son was kneeling down next to me in front of his tomb and he was in awe that we were right by his remains. He just couldn't believe that inside this tomb was the incredible man that he's watched on YouTube! There were some fascinating things we learned about Fulton Sheen while we were there, too.
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We began our tour at the Cathedral of St. Mary, where Ven. Sheen's remains are being held. This cathedral is absolutely beautiful. It is not a big cathedral, but it is gorgeous. First we venerated his remains, then we ooohh and ahhhed over the sights in the church.
Off to the side of the main chapel is an adoration chapel that was so very peaceful. We were lucky enough to get there during their weekly adoration time. Inside this chapel is where all of their relics are housed so we took a tour of those, too. They have quite the collection of "big" Saints there.
The Fulton Sheen Museum
About a block away is the Fulton Sheen museum, so we headed there next. Inside is there is a collection of the Archbishop's memorabilia. I was hoping to see his Emmy but, alas, it is not there.
We learned some interesting facts about him, too.
- He was bi-ritual, meaning he celebrated both the Byzantine and Latin Rites. I'm not sure how common this is, either. The Byzantine vestments they had that he wore were beautiful.
- At his ordination, he vowed to spend an hour each day in front of the Blessed Sacrament. No wonder he had such a positive impact on the world, both then and now.
What an incredible man Fulton Sheen was. I am hopeful that he will be canonized very soon. If you would like to pray for that, too, here is his prayer for canonization. Also, if you are ever in Peoria, make sure to stop in at the church and the museum meet Archbishop Fulton Sheen.
Prayer for the Canonization of the
Venerable Servant of God
Archbishop Fulton J Sheen
Heavenly Father, source of all holiness, You raise up within the Church in every age men and women who serve with heroic love and dedication. You have blessed Your Church through the life and ministry of Your faithful servant, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. He has written and spoken well of Your Divine Son, Jesus Christ, and was a true instrument of the Holy Spirit in touching the hearts of countless people. If it be according to Your Will, for the honor and glory of the Most Holy Trinity and for the salvation of souls, we ask You to move the Church to proclaim him a saint. We ask this prayer through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen