Archbishop Sheen: How the philosophy professor became ‘God’s microphone’

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen began using radio for evangelization while serving as a philosophy professor at The Catholic University of America in Washington. After completing doctoral studies at the University of Louvain in Belgium and receiving the agrégé honor, Sheen returned to the university faculty in 1926.

During his early years as a priest and scholar, Sheen published the book Religion without God in 1928, which followed his dissertation, God and Intelligence. He also became known for lecturing to various campus groups and participating in the American Catholic Philosophical Association.

His public profile grew as he began delivering Lenten sermons at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Manhattan in 1926. Following his first radio appearance in 1928, Sheen received numerous invitations to speak on radio programs across the country. He also served as a retreat leader for religious women, including the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus.