New center in Peoria will celebrate the life and legacy of America’s most beloved Catholic communicator 

PEORIA — The Diocese of Peoria broke ground on Oct. 19 on The Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Experience, a new facility honoring the life and legacy of hometown hero Venerable Fulton J. Sheen. The event marked the beginning of the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation’s and Diocese of Peoria’s plan to transform the former Spalding Institute in downtown Peoria — where Archbishop Sheen attended high school — into a dynamic cultural center blending faith, history, and innovation to inspire generations.

 “We are thrilled to transform the historic diocesan high school building into this new facility,” said the Bishop Louis Tylka, bishop of the Diocese of Peoria. “We believe this project will draw even more visitors to the city to grow in their knowledge and love of the man who is arguably Peoria’s greatest son and through his witness, draw closer to Jesus Christ.” 

The new center will feature immersive and interactive exhibits, an expanded Sheen museum with additional memorabilia, and a media room that immerses guests in the Emmy Award winner’s radio and television career. The facility will also include conference rooms, meeting spaces, and outdoor areas with scenic views of Peoria.

The project is projected to cost $11 million to $12 million and reach completion in late 2027. The organization has worked closely with Rich Conneen Architects LLC to design the renovated building. The building firm has yet to be determined. 

“Archbishop Fulton Sheen was not only a son of Peoria but a voice for the Church that touched millions across the world,” said Bishop Tylka. “With the Fulton J. Sheen Experience, we are creating a place where visitors can encounter his faith, vision, and enduring witness. This center will inspire future generations to live boldly for Christ, just as he did.”  Currently, the Sheen museum draws roughly 4,000 visitors per year. With tourism predicted to increase to 11,000-15,000, the diocese thus projects a 150-275 percent increase in the city’s tourism. 

Venerable Fulton J. Sheen was born on May 8, 1895, in El Paso, Ill., and ordained a priest for the Diocese of Peoria in 1919. He taught at The Catholic University of America. He became nationally known as the host of NBC Radio’s The Catholic Hour. Later, his television show, Life Is Worth Living, aired on the DuMont Network, which drew up to 30 million viewers and earned him the 1952 Emmy for Most Outstanding Television Personality. He later led the Society for the Propagation of the Faith and served as Bishop of Rochester, New York. 

Archbishop Sheen died on Dec. 9, 1979, in New York City while praying before the Blessed Sacrament. Declared “Venerable” in 2012, his cause for beatification remains open, and his legacy continues to inspire millions. Bishop Tylka continues to work with the United States bishops and the Holy See to move the cause for canonization forward. It is hoped that the beatification of Sheen will be approved by Pope Leo XIV. 

For more information, please visit celebratesheen.com/experience.