Pope Leo XIV receives relic of Blessed Fulton Sheen from Peoria Bishop Louis Tylka

Pope Leo XIV received a relic of Blessed Fulton J. Sheen from leaders of the Diocese of Peoria, Illinois, this month, marking a poignant moment involving the Catholic Church’s first American-born pope and one of the nation’s most iconic modern evangelists.

Bishop Louis Tylka of Peoria, accompanied by Monsignor Jason Gray, executive director of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation, met with the Holy Father in a private audience Oct. 5.

The audience followed the long-awaited beatification of Sheen, a pioneer of Catholic radio and television whose cause for sainthood was championed by his home diocese in central Illinois. The encounter carried added significance given that both Pope Leo XIV and Blessed Fulton Sheen trace their roots to the state of Illinois.

Following the audience, Tylka highlighted the deep spiritual connection and Church tradition tied to the gift.

Bishop Louis Tylka of Peoria, Illinois, and Monsignor Jason Gray, the executive director of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation, meet with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Oct. 5, 2026, while presenting the Holy Father with a relic of Sheen. | Credit: Vatican Media

“It was a profound joy and…