Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Museum - Peoria, Illinois

(CNS photo/Karen Callaway, Catholic New World)

Destination: As his sainthood cause advances, now may be the ideal time for a trip to Peoria to see the new Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Museum in the new Spalding Pastoral Center of the Diocese of Peoria.
Mass, about a block away in the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception where Archbishop Sheen was ordained a priest, is offered Saturday  at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in English and 12:15 p.m. in Spanish. While you’re there, don’t miss a visit to the St. Thomas More Chapel to see it’s amazing collection of saint’s relics. Tuesday through Friday,  8 a.m. Masses are at St. Peter’s Parish, 2719 NE Madison Ave.

(Observer photo by Amanda Hudson)

In the photo (above), a man takes a snapshot of Byzantine-rite vestments and other items belonging to the late Archbishop Fulton Sheen on display in the museum (right). The Spalding Pastoral Center houses both the Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Museum and the Peoria Diocesan Museum.
Why to go:  Born in El Paso — you’ll take a right there on I-39 to get to Peoria — and ordained for the Diocese of Peoria, Fulton John Sheen may well become an Illinois-native saint.
For older Catholics, familiar with Archbishop Sheen’s TV show, “Life is Worth Living,” the museum will be a reminder of an “entertainment” staple of the 1950s. And it offers a great opportunity to pass on the legacy of one of Catholicism’s most famous American spokesmen before he becomes a saint. (Talk to anyone there; they’re almost ready to guarantee it will be soon. Look for the story of his first alleged miracle in next week’s Observer.) Relax in a corner to watch a movie about his life, and don’t forget to ask about the Sheen Trail.
Access: Parking is about a half-block away, but the museum is on the first floor.
Ammenities: There are gift items for sale in the museum and the center will make special arrangements for groups.
Admission: Free, but donations are welcome, both to support the musuem and the Sheen Foundation to further the sainthood cause. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
(Grand) Kid friendly:  The museum welcomes children, but keep in mind it’s a small space inside an office building.
Info: Address:  Spalding Pastoral Center, 419 NE Madison Ave., Peoria, IL 61603. Phone: 309/671-1550. Web: www.cdopmuseums.org

- Compiled by Sharon Boehlefeld
Send your Catholic destinations ideas to seasonedobserver@rockforddiocese.org