The Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Excellence in Preaching Initiative

Engaging Parishioners Through More Effective Preaching

The Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Excellence in Preaching Initiative, a new program led by The Catholic University of America and supported by a five-year grant from the Eli Lilly Foundation, is committed to enhancing preaching excellence across the Catholic Church in the United States. This transformative program aims to equip priests, deacons, seminarians, and lay leaders with the tools to deliver compelling, culturally relevant homilies that inspire and feed the spiritual hunger of congregations. Through innovative resources like a research manual for the lectionary cycle, immersive workshops, and specialized training programs, the Sheen Initiative fosters a renewal in Catholic preaching, focusing on engaging diverse communities and addressing contemporary spiritual challenges. Our 2024/2025 theme, Preaching Hope in a Doubt-Filled World, will guide preachers in offering messages of faith and renewal in an ever-changing world. Join us on this transformative journey to deepen the faith of the Catholic community.

We are thrilled to announce our inaugural seminar for priests, taking place July 13-18. Priests can learn more about the seminar and register by visiting the registration page. Exciting initiatives for deacons and lay leaders are coming soon—stay tuned! Be sure to sign up for our email list to receive the latest updates and news about the program.

Proclaiming the Word with Excellence

The Initiative offers comprehensive teaching, training, and resources for all members of the Catholic Church who proclaim the Word of God. Leveraging the expertise of the University’s School of Theology and Religious Studies, as well as the Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art, its programs emphasize homily preparation, public speaking, and effective delivery techniques.

Programs and Resources

For Priests

The Fulton J. Sheen Excellence in Preaching Workshop

This immersive, week-long program for priests centers on a dedicated pastoral theme, offering specialized workshops in collaboration with the Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art. Sessions focus on voice projection, language, and presentation skills, equipping participants to communicate more effectively. Additionally, priests have the option to receive ongoing support through a six-month mentorship with an experienced preaching mentor.

For Deacons

Heralds of the Gospel of Christ: Diaconal Preaching Course

The Diaconal Preaching Initiative is an online program to enhance the preaching skills of permanent deacons. It focuses on the process of prayer, reflection writing, and preaching a homily through lecture, assessment, and practice.

Coming Soon

For Lay Leaders

Baptized to Proclaim the Word

This 12-credit certificate program equips lay leaders in pastoral, catechetical, and retreat settings with the skills to proclaim the Word effectively. Through a deep exploration of the Catholic spiritual tradition, participants learn to craft compelling spiritual and catechetical presentations that inspire and engage their audiences.

Coming Soon

For Preachers

Preaching from the Heart of the Catholic Tradition: A Preacher’s Resource

This preaching resource for the Sunday liturgical cycle provides insights from Catholic writings, arts, and devotional traditions that illuminate key themes in the readings. Designed to support preachers in prayer, reflection, and study, the manual serves as a valuable guide for crafting meaningful and impactful Sunday homilies.

Coming Soon