The Diocese of Peoria is inviting the faithful to join in a special nine-day novena, The Love of the Priesthood, available on the Hallow app. This unique collaboration brings together the timeless wisdom of Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen and the leadership of Bishop Louis Tylka, offering Catholics a powerful opportunity to pray for priests, vocations, and the renewal of the Church

A Novena Rooted in Sheen’s Legacy

Venerable Fulton Sheen, one of the most beloved Catholic figures of the 20th century and a native son of the Diocese of Peoria, wrote extensively about the priesthood and its profound spiritual meaning. His reflections form the heart of this novena, which is structured around daily themes such as the call to holiness, the joy of fraternity among priests, the gift of the Eucharist, and the redemptive power of the Cross.

Each day features prayers, meditations on Sheen’s writings, and petitions for his canonization. Bishop Louis Tylka guides participants through these reflections, connecting Sheen’s timeless teaching with the lived faith of the Church today.

Praying Together Through Hallow

Through a partnership with Hallow, the world’s leading Catholic prayer app, this novena is available free of charge to all. Hallow’s digital platform makes it possible for Catholics across the diocese—and beyond—to join in prayer, strengthening unity and renewing devotion in a way that transcends parish boundaries.

Bishop Tylka emphasized the importance of this shared prayer experience: “Fulton Sheen loved the priesthood deeply, and his words continue to inspire us to embrace our vocations with courage and joy. By praying this novena together, we not only honor his legacy but also intercede for a flourishing of priestly vocations in our Church.”

Join Bishop Lou Tylka for this beautiful novena on the mystery, sacrifice, and joy of the priestly vocation.  https://hallow.app.link/CWg8ZKUpXWb

An Invitation to the Faithful

The Diocese encourages all Catholics—families, parishes, schools, and individuals—to participate in the novena. By lifting up priests and praying for vocations, the faithful help strengthen one of the Five Foundations of the Diocese of Peoria.

To take part, simply download the Hallow app and search for The Love of the Priesthood. The novena was made available beginning September 20, on the anniversary of Sheen’s priestly ordination, but may be prayed at any time.

As the Church continues to pray for Sheen’s canonization, this novena serves as a reminder of his enduring witness and the timeless call to holiness that continues to shape the Diocese of Peoria and the wider Catholic Church.