Pope praises US radio and TV preacher Fulton Sheen as an inspiration ahead of his beatification

Rome (AP) — Pope Leo, who spent his formative years listening to the influential American television preacher Archbishop Fulton Sheen, honored his fellow Illinois clergyman on Wednesday as an inspiration in preparation for Sheen's beatification.

The pontiff, speaking to an audience in St. Peter's Square, urged English-speaking pilgrims to emulate Sheen's approach to spreading the Christian faith through joyful enthusiasm. Born in Chicago, Sheen became a household name in the 1950s with his television series "Life is Worth Living," which reached millions of American homes.

A renowned evangelist, Sheen was recognized with an Emmy Award and featured on the cover of Time Magazine. His pioneering work in televised faith formation earned him the title of one of the most influential Catholics of the 20th century. After years of deliberation, Sheen will be beatified on Thursday in St. Louis, Missouri, marking the first step toward potential sainthood.

The Vatican's chief evangelization official, Cardinal Luis Tagle, will preside over the ceremony. Pope Leo highlighted Sheen's impact, saying his broadcasts and intercession have inspired many to find new ways of spreading the gospel with joyful enthusiasm.