Fulton Sheen’s preaching legacy continues at Catholic University of America

The Catholic University of America is carrying Venerable Fulton Sheen’s preaching legacy forward through an initiative preparing priests, deacons, seminarians, and lay ministers to proclaim the Gospel with greater clarity and conviction.

In a July 31 release, the university said clergy from 16 dioceses, 12 states, and two countries gathered July 12–17 for the initiative’s second summer institute, under the theme “We Walk Together in Unity.”

The summer institute is part of the nationwide Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Excellence in Preaching Initiative, which provides formation, mentorship, and practical resources to strengthen Catholic preaching.

The program is inspired by the renowned archbishop and evangelist, a Catholic University alumnus who taught theology and philosophy there for nearly 25 years.

Led by Susan Timoney, an associate professor of pastoral studies, the initiative brings together theological formation and communication training to strengthen both the substance and delivery of Catholic preaching, the university said.

During the July institute, priests worked on homily preparation and public speaking, with drama professor Melissa Flaim leading a workshop on voice and presentation to help them better engage parishioners.

Beyond those practical skills, Ven. Sheen’s example points to the spiritual foundation of Catholic preaching. As Zeale News previously reported, Monsignor Jason Gray, executive director of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation, encouraged modern Catholic communicators to follow Ven. Sheen's example by grounding their ministry in prayer, truth, and integrity. 

The summer institute was held as Ven. Sheen’s Sept. 24 beatification approaches, bringing his cause one formal step closer to canonization. As Zeale News previously reported, the Holy See allowed the beatification to proceed this year following a years-long delay after Pope Francis approved a miracle attributed to his intercession.