Former National Director of The Pontifical Mission Societies USA (1950-1966)
Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen was one of the most influential Catholic figures of the 20th century. A renowned preacher, prolific writer, and pioneer in Catholic media, he used his talents to spread the Gospel to millions. Though many know him for his work on radio and television, Archbishop Sheen played a pivotal role in supporting the Church's missionary efforts worldwide as National Director of The Pontifical Mission Societies USA from 1950 to 1966.
In September 1950, Cardinal Pietro Fumasoni-Biondi, Prefect of the Vatican's Sacred Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith, announced that Monsignor Fulton Sheen had been appointed as National Director of the Pontifical Mission Aid Societies (known today as The Pontifical Mission Societies USA).This appointment came at the recommendation of Cardinal Francis Spellman, Archbishop of New York, who recognized Sheen's charismatic leadership and deep commitment to evangelization.
Upon accepting this role on November 1, 1950, Archbishop Sheen resigned from his teaching position at The Catholic University of America and gave up all public speaking engagements unrelated to the missions—though he continued his popular radio program, "The Catholic Hour." He saw his new mission as an opportunity to educate and inspire American Catholics in the Church's global missionary efforts.
Archbishop Sheen viewed his role at The Pontifical Mission Societies through the lens of Christ's Great Commission: "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). He believed that the Church had to meet the challenge of global evangelization, especially as Communism and secularism threatened faith in many parts of the world.
Moving into the national headquarters in New York City, Archbishop Sheen quickly set to work. Under his leadership, the organization expanded dramatically:
One of Archbishop Sheen's greatest achievements as National Director was dramatically increasing financial support for the missions. He saw fundraising not simply as a means to sustain missionary work but as a spiritual responsibility for every Catholic.
Through his radio broadcasts, television appearances, and speaking engagements, Sheen constantly encouraged Catholics to give generously. His personal appeal resonated with audiences—donations surged, and soon, the U.S. Church was contributing nearly two-thirds of all worldwide funds raised for missionary work.
At the height of his leadership:
Over 10,000 letters arrived at the office daily, many containing small donations from Catholic families and even non-Catholics.
The missions provided care for over 54 million people annually, including children, the elderly, the sick, and victims of leprosy.
Sheen personally read and responded to donor letters, reinforcing the connection between benefactors and the missionaries they supported.
On May 22, 1951, Pope Pius XII appointed Monsignor Sheen as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of New York, with the titular see of Caesariana. His episcopal consecration took place on June 11, 1951, at the Basilica of Sts. John and Paul in Rome. Despite this new title, Archbishop Sheen remained fully committed to his work at The Pontifical Mission Societies, maintaining his grueling schedule of fundraising, administration, and travel.
Archbishop Sheen served as National Director of The Pontifical Mission Societies USA for 16 years, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of missionary zeal, organizational growth, and evangelization. His influence extended far beyond his administrative role:
Even after leaving his position in 1966, Archbishop Sheen continued his missionary outreach through his writings, television programs, and pastoral work. His commitment to spreading the Gospel remains an enduring model for mission-minded Catholics today.
In recognition of his contributions to the Church and the missions, Archbishop Sheen was declared Venerable by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012, a step toward sainthood. His work at The Pontifical Mission Societies USA serves as a lasting testament to his unwavering belief in the missionary call of every Christian.
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