Remains of Archbishop Sheen to Be Transferred to Peoria

Posted

The Trustees of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Archdiocese of New York were recently informed that the New York Court of Appeals has denied further appeal of the New York Supreme Court decision upholding Joan Cunningham’s petition to disinter the mortal remains of her uncle, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, from the crypt under the altar of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where they have rested for nearly 40 years.

“While we did not initiate this matter, the Trustees of St. Patrick’s and the Archdiocese believed that it was not simply their duty, but a solemn obligation, to seek to uphold Archbishop Sheen’s last wishes, as directed in his will, to be buried in New York—a position held until recently by Joan Cunningham herself,” said Joseph Zwilling, director of communications for the archdiocese, in a statement released June 9. The decision was made June 6.

“In light of the court’s denial of further appeal, the Trustees of St. Patrick and the Archdiocese will work cooperatively with Mrs. Cunningham and the Diocese of Peoria to arrange for the respectful transfer of Archbishop Sheen’s mortal remains.”