Fulton J. Sheen was born on May 8, 1895, in El Paso, Illinois. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Peoria on September 20, 1919. Sheen earned a Doctorate in Philosophy from the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium and later taught theology and philosophy at the Catholic University of America. He became widely known for his preaching and especially for his work on television and radio, notably hosting "Life Is Worth Living" in the 1950s, which reached an audience of millions.

In recognition of his contributions, Sheen was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of New York in 1951 and later served as Bishop of Rochester from 1966 to 1969. After resigning from his diocesan duties, he was named Archbishop of the titular see of Newport. Sheen authored numerous books and articles, becoming a prominent figure in American Catholicism. He passed away on December 9, 1979, in New York City.

Pope Benedict XVI recognized Sheen's heroic virtues, declaring him "Venerable" in 2012. In July 2019, Pope Francis approved a miracle attributed to Sheen, paving the way for his beatification.