Episodes
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In this sermon, Bishop Fulton Sheen reflects on how modern society has rejected the concept of sin, replacing it with rationalizations and excuses. He draws on historical and literary examples, such as Dostoevsky’s prediction that people would deny sin and guilt, and Shakespeare’s Macbeth, which portrays the psychological consequences of guilt. Sheen contrasts these with today’s attempts to explain away sin as mere illness or psychological issues, suggesting that modern people see themselves as patients needing therapy, rather than sinners in need of repentance.
Sheen describes two common ways people escape from guilt: one is through psychological treatment, where sins are “explained away” as mental issues, and the other is rationalization, where people blame others for their faults or justify their actions. He shares personal stories of individuals, including a woman burdened by guilt from an abortion, showing how hidden guilt manifests and can only be resolved through genuine confession and repentance.
He emphasizes that the true forgiveness of sin requires more than just therapy or rationalization—it requires the shedding of blood. Sheen refers to the 9th chapter of Hebrews, explaining that without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sin. He connects this to the blood sacrifices in the Old Testament, showing that the gravity of sin demands a deep, sacrificial atonement.
Sheen concludes by reminding his audience of the seriousness of sin and the immense love of the Savior who paid the ultimate price for humanity’s redemption. Through this sermon, he urges modern society to recognize sin, confess it, and embrace the salvation offered through Christ’s sacrifice.
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In this powerful and thought-provoking lecture, Bishop Fulton Sheen explores the philosophical foundations of life and the destructive ideologies that have led to the normalization of abortion. Using humor, personal stories, and historical examples, Sheen addresses deep moral and spiritual questions about modern society’s understanding of freedom and love.
Sheen begins with anecdotes that highlight misunderstandings, including a humorous story of a chauffeur posing as a professor, revealing how appearances can deceive, much like false philosophies that mask deeper truths. He transitions into the serious topic of abortion, contrasting the Christian philosophy of life, which sees each person as made in the image of God, with the modern view that places the self above all else.
Sheen critiques the idea of freedom as the right to do anything, arguing that this leads to a culture of selfishness and the destruction of life. True freedom, he says, involves responsibility and respect for boundaries, both moral and societal. He compares this to the Communist philosophy, which replaces individual freedom with absolute obedience to the state.
Central to Sheen’s argument is the contrast between “biophilics” (lovers of life) and “necrophilics” (lovers of death). He argues that modern society, especially through the acceptance of abortion, has embraced necrophilia—a love of death. Sheen connects this shift to historical moments like the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, which he sees as a turning point in humanity’s disregard for life.
He draws on examples from Nazi Germany and Communist Russia to show how false ideologies lead to atrocities, and he warns that America, with its embrace of “freedom without limits,” risks falling into the same trap. Sheen also speaks about the distortion of love, which has become focused on personal pleasure rather than self-giving responsibility.
In one of the most poignant moments of the lecture, Sheen reads a letter from a woman who had an abortion, sharing her deep regret and the emotional scars she carries. This letter serves as a powerful testimony to the real consequences of the philosophy of death that Sheen critiques.
Sheen concludes by pointing to Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and the forgiveness available to those who seek it, calling for a return to a culture that values life at every stage, from conception to natural death. He warns that unless society reverses its path, it will continue to spiral into greater destruction, but he offers hope through faith and the redemptive power of God’s love.
Through this lecture, Bishop Sheen urges his listeners to stand firm in defending life and to recognize the false philosophies that threaten both individuals and society as a whole.
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In this speech, Fulton Sheen explores the dangers of two extremes in the Church: the activist who prioritizes social justice but neglects spirituality, and the pacifist who focuses solely on personal piety and liturgy, neglecting action and care for others. Sheen traces the roots of activism to Marxism, highlighting Marx’s belief that private property and religion alienate man from his true nature. Sheen argues that some in the Church have adopted Marxist activism, which focuses on collective concerns at the expense of personal spiritual growth.
He contrasts this with those who focus excessively on liturgy and personal piety, neglecting the needs of their community. Drawing on biblical texts from Amos and Isaiah, Sheen critiques the idea of isolating oneself spiritually while ignoring justice and action in the world.
Sheen emphasizes the need to balance both extremes, using the example of the Transfiguration, where Jesus reveals his glory on the mountaintop but then descends into the valley to heal a boy possessed by demons. The message is clear: profound spirituality should precede and inform action.
He further illustrates this balance through stories of social justice, particularly his own experience offering housing to the poor, which was rejected by activists who misunderstood the deeper spiritual foundation behind the action. He also highlights the example of Mother Teresa, whose spiritual discipline and prayer allowed her to truly serve the destitute.
Sheen concludes by stating that while economic and political liberation is essential, it must be rooted in personal enslavement to Christ, emphasizing that true liberation comes when we become slaves to God’s will, following the example of Christ. This spiritual foundation must precede all social action to ensure it is not mere busywork, but truly transformative.
This speech calls for a balance of deep prayer and spirituality with active engagement in the world, guided by the ultimate aim of individual and collective justice rooted in faith.
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This podcast episode features a sermon by Fulton Sheen, focusing on the theme "Spectators on and About the Cross" in his 58th Good Friday address. Sheen categorizes the spectators of Christ's crucifixion into three types: the indifferent or fallen away, those in pain, and those who love.
Sheen begins with the indifferent spectators, likening them to those who have lost faith yet cannot completely detach themselves from it. He emphasizes that despite their apparent disinterest, there’s a subconscious engagement with faith, an underlying hope for redemption, and an invitation to return to it.
Next, he talks about the spectators of pain, represented by the two thieves crucified alongside Christ. He describes their different responses to their suffering - one seeks escape from pain while the other seeks redemption. Sheen uses this to discuss the broader theme of pain in human life, suggesting that pain can be a medium through which we understand our flaws and draw closer to God.
Finally, Sheen addresses the spectators of love, focusing on Mary Magdalene and the Virgin Mary at the foot of the cross. He contrasts "need love," which arises from our deficiencies, with "gift love," which is selfless and sacrificial. The Virgin Mary, for Sheen, exemplifies this selfless love, having wholly identified with Jesus’s mission.
Sheen concludes by reflecting on the scars of Christ as symbols of love and sacrifice, urging listeners to find strength and meaning in their own suffering and to use it as a bridge to connect with the divine. He emphasizes the transformative power of love and suffering in bringing humans closer to God.
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In his enlightening sermon, Bishop Fulton Sheen takes his audience through the captivating journey of love, likening it to the unfolding drama of a theatrical play. He introduces the concept of love and courtship with a light-hearted approach, using the analogy of theater music before the curtain rise to describe the anticipation and excitement that precedes a romantic relationship.
Bishop Sheen expertly outlines the four distinct stages of romantic development. The first stage, "Togetherness," is marked by the innocent and carefree interaction between young boys and girls. Here, Sheen highlights the natural, uncomplicated relationships that exist before the awareness of sexual differences comes into play.
The second stage, "Separation," is characterized by a period of divergence, where boys and girls consciously distance themselves from each other. Sheen humorously notes the reluctance of boys and girls to be associated with each other during this phase, emphasizing its importance in allowing both genders to develop their unique characteristics and strengths.
In the third stage, "Crystallization," teenagers begin to view each other with a sense of idealization, often attributing extraordinary qualities to one another. Sheen delves into the psychology behind this, explaining how this stage reflects a deeper yearning for infinite happiness and love. He cautions, however, against mistaking this glorification for true love.
Finally, Bishop Sheen discusses "Courtship," the stage where true love and compatibility are tested. He proposes several criteria for a successful courtship, including affinity beyond physical attraction, sacrifice and selflessness in men, femininity and nurturing in women, and the ability to pray together. These elements, according to Sheen, are essential for a relationship that transcends physical attraction and aligns with divine love.
Throughout the sermon, Bishop Sheen uses humor, poignant anecdotes, and insightful observations to engage his audience. His message is clear: true love is a journey that goes beyond mere physical attraction, reaching into the realms of spiritual and emotional compatibility, ultimately reflecting the divine love of God. This sermon, with its blend of wisdom and wit, is a compelling exploration of the complexities and joys of human relationships, making it an ideal topic for podcast listeners interested in understanding the deeper aspects of love and courtship.
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In his enlightening sermon, Fulton Sheen addresses a youthful audience, blending humor and profound insights to explore the concepts of good, evil, and the diabolic in modern life. He starts with light anecdotes to engage his listeners, illustrating how easily we can be swayed by superficial pleasures and how different our perceptions can be as tourists versus residents in life's moral landscapes.
Sheen recounts the story of a missionary in Vietnam encountering a possibly possessed child, segueing into a deeper discussion on the nature of the devil from both psychiatric and theological perspectives. He observes that as religious practices diminish, secular disciplines often adopt and distort these concepts, citing the example of psychiatrists discussing the demonic as theologians shy away from it.
From a psychiatric viewpoint, Sheen discusses Rolo May's analysis of the diabolic, focusing on its nature to disrupt unity and create discord. This is exemplified in various societal divisions, including those within the Church. Biblically, Sheen interprets the essence of the satanic as a hatred of the cross of Christ, a theme he traces through the temptations of Jesus and Peter's reaction to Christ's prediction of his suffering and death.
Sheen emphasizes that the satanic tempts with shortcuts to avoid the cross, promoting permissiveness, the allure of wonders, and the reduction of theology to mere politics. He warns of the rise of the demonic and the importance of recognizing how Christ and Satan appear to us before and after sin – Christ as an obstacle before sin but a defender after, and Satan as a seeming ally before sin but an accuser after.
Concluding, Sheen underscores the power of the Holy Name of Jesus, the blood of Christ, and devotion to the Blessed Mother as weapons against Satan. He encourages embracing the cross and sharing the message of Christ's sacrifice, reminding his audience that at the end of life, we face either the merciful face of Christ or the terrifying face of Satan, with each claiming 'Mine'. The sermon is a compelling call to understand and resist the satanic, emphasizing the timeless relevance of the cross in Christian life.
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In his profound speech, Bishop Fulton Sheen emphasizes the ongoing and often overlooked battle between the forces of good and evil. He laments the modern trend of either trivializing or denying the existence of the devil, warning that such ignorance empowers evil. Sheen explores the stark contrast between God's self-definition as "I am who am" and the devil's as "I am who am not," highlighting the devil's strength in being denied or ignored.
Sheen uses a poetic narrative to question the absence of spiritual leadership in society, and he critiques the silence of theologians on the topic of Satan and his relevance in the contemporary world. He references renowned poets and thinkers like William Butler Yeats and Friedrich Nietzsche to illustrate society's fear of impending doom and the rise of the antichrist.
Delving into the diabolic from both psychiatric and biblical perspectives, Sheen describes it as a force of division, aggression, and confusion. He stresses the importance of recognizing and resisting these forces in the church and within ourselves. Sheen admonishes the decline of discipline and the love of the cross in modern times, seeing these as indicators of diabolic influence.
Furthermore, Sheen explores the contrasting roles of Christ and Satan before and after sin. Christ appears as an obstacle during temptation but becomes a defender after sin, offering forgiveness and peace. In contrast, Satan acts as an ally during temptation but turns into an accuser post-sin, leading to despair and guilt.
Sheen concludes by warning of a rise in open Satanism and the urgent need for true faith and dedication to Christ-like values. He underscores the inevitability of confronting either the benevolent face of Christ or the malevolent face of Satan at life's end, urging a decision on where one's allegiance lies.
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Bishop Fulton Sheen's sermon from 1966 addresses the deep-rooted cultural crisis masked as a sexual revolution, focusing particularly on the glorification of homosexuality and other sexual deviations. He argues that these phenomena are not isolated sexual issues but reflections of a broader cultural decay, where moral relativism blurs the lines between right and wrong. Sheen suggests that such glorifications are symptomatic of a society estranged from eternal truths and grappling with anxiety, loneliness, and fear. He urges a reevaluation of cultural values and a return to a moral framework that respects the dignity and sacredness of human relationships, beyond mere physical gratification.
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In the final talk of the Dublin retreat, Archbishop Fulton Sheen shares a poignant reflection on the Sacred Heart of Jesus, connecting it deeply to the priesthood. He begins with an Old Testament perspective, illustrating the singular significance of Christ's sacrifice and the unique role it plays in salvation history. Sheen explores the relationship between the shedding of Christ's blood and the rending of the temple veil, symbolizing the opening of the Holy of Holies to all. This pivotal moment, he asserts, reveals the profound mystery and accessibility of God's grace through Christ's pierced heart. Emphasizing the importance of the daily Holy Hour, Sheen invites priests to find solace and strength in the Sacred Heart, which he describes as the ultimate manifestation of Christ's love. The talk culminates in a call to priests to embrace this devotion, seeing it as a means to combat evil and grow closer to Christ. Sheen's message underscores the significance of the Sacred Heart in a priest's spiritual life, positioning it as a beacon of hope, a source of renewal, and a testament to the boundless love of Christ for humanity.
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In his 15th address at the Dublin retreat, Archbishop Fulton Sheen explores the evolving landscape of moral theology and the apparent dichotomy within the Church. He observes a shift from individual virtue to social justice, leading to a perceived split between churches focused on evangelization and those emphasizing development. Sheen draws from the Transfiguration narrative to illustrate the need for balance between spiritual ecstasy and social involvement. He argues against the compartmentalization of the Church into one solely concerned with contemplation and another with political action, advocating for a unified approach that begins with spiritual grounding and extends to worldly engagement. Sheen emphasizes the importance of the Holy Hour in fortifying priests for social challenges, underscoring the necessity of internal strength to face external struggles effectively. His message to the clergy is clear: the dual role of a priest involves nurturing a deep connection with Christ through contemplation, which in turn empowers effective action in addressing social issues. This holistic approach, Sheen suggests, is the key to being true representatives of Christ in a world that needs both spiritual guidance and social reform.
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In his 14th talk at the Dublin retreat, Archbishop Fulton Sheen delves into the profound nature of the priesthood, emphasizing the gift of celibacy. He reflects on the humbleness of priests, akin to 'pots of earth and ware,' chosen not for what they are but for what they might become through God's power. Sheen draws inspiration from St. Paul and biblical figures, illustrating how ordinary men were transformed into apostles. The talk pivots to celibacy, described as a divine gift rather than a mere obligation, highlighting the importance of this commitment in the priestly life. Sheen elucidates the theological basis for celibacy, connecting it to the biblical theme of nuptials, from the union of man and woman in Eden to the spiritual marriage of Christ and the Church. He argues that the focus on celibacy is not about monopoly or gender, but about symbolizing Christ's relationship with the Church. Sheen acknowledges the tensions celibacy can create, both in maintaining it and in the consequences of failing to do so. He underscores the transformative power of sacrificial love (agape) over erotic love (Eros), advocating for a life centered around the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This message to the clergy is a call to embrace the gift of celibacy wholeheartedly, recognizing it as an integral part of their spiritual journey and a testament to their devotion to God's will.
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Archbishop Fulton Sheen's 13th address in the 1977 Dublin retreat focuses on the nature and challenges of the Church, likening its current state to the Church in the wilderness. He speaks about the Church as the Corpus Christi, manifesting in three forms: the physical body of Christ, the community of believers, and the Holy Eucharist. Sheen acknowledges the Church's visible and invisible aspects, emphasizing that despite scandals and weaknesses, it remains a holy and divinely inspired institution. He compares the Church to a hospital and Noah's Ark, carrying both purity and imperfection yet leading towards salvation. The Archbishop underscores the importance of unity with the Pope, reflecting on his personal experiences with various Pontiffs and their embodiment of Christ's vicar. He stresses the significance of understanding the Church's trials and tribulations through the lens of the cross and Christ's sacrifice. Sheen's message to the clergy highlights the need for unwavering faith and devotion to the Church, especially in times of internal strife and external challenges, reaffirming the Church as a guiding force against worldly corruption.
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In his 12th talk of the 1977 Dublin retreat, Archbishop Fulton Sheen delves into the roles of counseling and preaching within the priesthood. He emphasizes the Holy Spirit's critical role in counseling, cautioning against over-reliance on psychology while underscoring the necessity of integrating Christ and the gospel into guidance. Sheen advises priests to be concise and focused on decision-making in counseling sessions, highlighting the importance of praying with those seeking counsel. For preaching, he stresses the need for ongoing education and preparation, particularly in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. Sheen encourages personal reflection on Scripture and warns against merely reading sermons, advocating for preaching that is heartfelt and Christ-centered. His message to the clergy is clear: effective counseling and preaching require a deep connection with the Holy Spirit and a commitment to conveying Christ's teachings authentically.
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Archbishop Fulton Sheen, in his 1977 Dublin retreat, addresses the evolving respect and perception of priests in contemporary society. He emphasizes the importance of genuinely reflecting Christ's image, noting the decreasing automatic reverence for clergy and the increasing need for authenticity. Sheen discusses the challenges faced by the church and the necessity for priests to internalize spiritual virtues rather than rely on external displays. He underscores the power of personal holiness and the impact of Christ's presence within priests, using examples like Mother Teresa and Pope John XXIII to illustrate how true sanctity can profoundly influence others. The message is clear: in a world less inclined to respect the institutional church, the individual priest’s ability to authentically embody Christ is crucial for casting the right shadows - those of healing, goodness, and faith.
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In this segment of the Dublin retreat, Archbishop Fulton Sheen explores the profound role of the Holy Spirit in the Trinity, the Church, and the lives of individual priests. He discusses the distinction between the gift of the Holy Spirit, which makes individuals pleasing to God, and the charisms that enable them to serve others. Archbishop Sheen reflects on the challenges within the Church, emphasizing the need for balanced leadership and the cultivation of the Spirit of Christ. He encourages priests to make the Holy Hour for a deeper connection with the Holy Spirit.
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Archbishop Fulton Sheen emphasizes the significance of the Holy Eucharist in a priest's life during the Mass. He stresses the need for preparation and recommends incorporating brief morning homilies or Scripture commentaries. The sacrificial nature of the priesthood is highlighted, with the consecration renewing Christ's sacrifice on Calvary. The separate consecration of bread and wine symbolizes Christ's disjunction on the cross. The Lamb of God motif is explored, and the breaking of the bread signifies Christ's broken life. Communion is likened to the union of spouses. The communal aspect of the Eucharist is linked to service and charity, emphasizing the responsibility of priests to the poor. The kiss of peace underscores the Church's communal role. Archbishop Sheen encourages acts of charity during the Eucharistic celebration, making it a complete service to humanity.
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In his eighth talk at the Dublin retreat, Archbishop Fulton Sheen reflects on the profound role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the life of the Church and in the hearts of the faithful. He shares a moving memory of a hymn sung to the Blessed Mother, illustrating the deep love and reverence monks had for her. Sheen explores the theme of responsibility and accountability, highlighting how the cross of Christ represents the end of passing blame and the acceptance of divine love and sacrifice. He delves into the relationship between Jesus and Mary, emphasizing Mary's journey of compassion parallel to Christ's passion. Sheen interprets key biblical moments, including the Annunciation, the finding in the Temple, and the marriage at Cana, to illustrate Mary's deepening understanding of her son's mission and her role in salvation history. He describes the crucifixion as a nuptial between the New Adam (Christ) and the New Eve (Mary), symbolizing the birth of the Church. Sheen's portrayal of Mary as the Mother of the Church emphasizes her central role in Christian spirituality, inviting priests to embrace her as their spiritual mother. He concludes by underscoring the importance of the Blessed Mother in the Church and the individual spiritual life, highlighting her as a figure of liberation and divine motherhood.
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In his seventh talk during the Dublin retreat, Archbishop Fulton Sheen meditates on the crucifixion and the profound symbolism of the cross. He begins by discussing the world's relationship with symbols and the difficulty of embracing the cross, regarded as a symbol of contradiction. Sheen reflects on the historical avoidance of the cross's imagery during times of Church decline, emphasizing its central role in understanding Christ's message. The talk then delves into the crucifixion scene, with Sheen highlighting the reactions of those present, ranging from apathy and antipathy to empathy. He eloquently describes the cross as uniting both friends and foes of Christ, foreseeing a future where the cross would be a symbol of division in the world.
Sheen elaborates on the first words spoken by Christ on the cross, "Father, forgive them," linking the act of forgiveness to the shedding of blood and the remission of sins. He explores the theological significance of this moment, drawing connections to Old Testament sacrifices and the culmination of Christ's sacrifice as the ultimate atonement. The talk further examines the dynamic between Jesus and the two thieves crucified alongside him, representing the ultimate judgment and the choice between rejection and acceptance of Christ's salvation.
Sheen concludes by contemplating the relationship between Jesus and his mother, Mary, at the foot of the cross, portraying it as a nuptial between the New Adam and the New Eve, symbolizing the birth of the Church. This profound reflection positions the cross not only as a sign of Christ's suffering but also as a beacon of hope and salvation, inviting the clergy to find strength and purpose in its message.
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In this session, Archbishop Fulton Sheen emphasizes the declining love of the Eucharist among priests and society. He introduces the idea of the daily holy hour in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament as a concrete solution. Sheen argues that this practice, rooted in biblical references, helps combat evil, make intercession, and contributes to personal and spiritual growth. He challenges priests to prioritize this daily hour, stating that it aligns with Christ's request for companionship in the Garden of Gethsemane. The Archbishop asserts that priests are not merely ministers but are engaged in a deeper mission of saving and reconciling.
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In this session, Archbishop Fulton Sheen explores the theology of serving society rooted in Christ. He begins with a prayer, asking for guidance in understanding the mission to society as ambassadors of Christ. Sheen emphasizes the need for a theology of serving society, pointing out that while there is plenty of philosophy and sociology, understanding the mission in Christ is crucial.
The Archbishop then delves into the nature of Christ, focusing on the fact that Christ had no human person, only the divine person. This lack of human personhood allows Christ to incorporate all of humanity and their experiences. Sheen highlights the importance of understanding the mission to society rooted in Christ rather than mere philosophy or sociology.
The concept of harmonization is introduced, suggesting that Christ, through his life experiences, took into his humanity all human tragedy. Sheen goes on to discuss how Christ harmonized infancy, youth, labor, and universalized all humanity, including Gentiles.
The Archbishop concludes by drawing practical conclusions from the incarnation. The first conclusion is vulnerability – the idea that priests, as ambassadors of Christ, need to be sensitive and open to the wounds and pains of humanity. The second conclusion is the centrality of the Eucharist, which becomes the foundation for the love of neighbor, especially when dealing with the physical needs of others.
Sheen encourages a unified theology of Christ and social work, arguing against divisions in the Church and presenting vulnerability and the Eucharist as essential components of serving society.
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