Pope Leo XIV has praised the missionary legacy of Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, describing him as “a light of faith, hope, and love” whose evangelising ministry through radio and television brought the Gospel to millions across the world.
Addressing participants of the General Assembly of the Pontifical Mission Societies on June 1, the Holy Father recalled Archbishop Sheen’s service as National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the United States and highlighted his enduring contribution to missionary evangelisation.
The Pope noted that Archbishop Sheen, whose beatification is scheduled to take place on September 24 in St. Louis, Missouri, used modern means of communication to proclaim the Gospel and inspire missionary commitment among the faithful.
“Archbishop Sheen was a light of faith, hope, and love that shone through the radio and television media for decades,” Pope Leo said. “His broadcasts touched millions with the hope of the Gospel and his initiatives resulted in enormous spiritual and material aid to the Churches in areas of first evangelisation.”
The Holy Father also revealed a personal connection to the renowned evangeliser, saying that he himself had benefited from Sheen’s preaching while growing up.
The audience coincided with the 100th anniversary of World Mission Sunday, established by Pope Pius XI in 1926 to promote prayer, reflection, and support for the Church’s missionary work, particularly in regions where the Gospel is newly proclaimed and local Churches are still developing.
Pope Leo encouraged Catholics worldwide to deepen their missionary commitment and to foster greater communion in the Church’s universal mission. Reflecting on this year’s World Mission Sunday theme, “One in Christ, United in Mission,” he said the theme invites believers to strengthen their unity in Christ and participate more fully in the Church’s mission of love.
The Pope also highlighted the importance of the Pontifical Mission Societies in supporting missionary territories, the formation of local clergy and religious, and the growth of young Churches throughout the world.
Calling for a renewed missionary spirit, Pope Leo urged the faithful to embrace ongoing missionary conversion and to work together in building a Church that brings healing and hope to a world marked by conflict, division, and war.
“In all that we do for the work of evangelisation, may we always place Jesus Christ at the centre,” the Holy Father said.
Source: Catholic News Agency