When Sheen appeared in his Emmy-winning show, “Life is Worth Living,” from 1952 to 1957, he was an auxiliary bishop in New York. He proved a natural for the medium: handsome with a beautiful voice and mesmerizing eyes. Sheen used no props except a chalkboard and chalk. He focused on such serious topics as philosophy, history and religion. He rarely, if ever, used notes.
“Life is Worth Living” routinely drew up to 30 million weekly viewers, becoming for a time the most popular television show in the country. Through both the show and his real-world ministry, Sheen inspired countless conversions.
Every bishop today wants to know Sheen’s secret. How did he enrapture millions of souls despite political, religious and geographical differences? How did he win converts while being outspoken about controversial truths?
The answer can primarily be found in Sheen’s prayer life, which inspired genuine love for his fellow human beings. On the day of his ordination in 1919, Sheen committed himself to a daily hour of prayer. He kept this promise until the day he died in 1979, despite a hectic schedule and major pastoral responsibilities. Sheen was so faithful to this promise that he drew his last breaths before the Eucharist.
America’s first bishop turned saint? Catholic leaders have a lot to learn from Blessed Fulton Sheen, master of the TV era, writes @ArchbishopOKChttps://t.co/nDX6j4ay62
— Wall Street Journal Opinion (@WSJopinion) September 25, 2026
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