Cyprien Comte

When I was told I was being honored with the first Radio & Podcasting Impact Sheen Award, my first response was, “Are you sure?” I don’t fire up the microphone because a trophy might come my way. But this trophy, and this honor, is one I’m mightily proud of and humbled by, and one which I will happily say “thank you” for. When I meet listeners who tune into my daily @siriusxm @CatholicChannel show, or who listen to my @avemariapress podcast, or who use Family Mass Prep on @hallowapp as they head to Mass each week, I’m reminded why I love the audio arts — because we get to keep people company. We get to walk along a little of the road with someone, and help them more fully understand and connect to the church. My daughters once said my job is “talking to the wall while I’m alone.” And sure. I’m in my home studio, alone, facing a wall. But so many are out there listening, and it’s the honor and joy of my life to be able to talk to and with them. Bl. Fulton Sheen began his media career in radio. He hosted a weekly, one hour show, for decades. He entered into peoples’ lives with just his voice, and shared the Gospel with such conviction and joy, he eventually landed on television. Now I’m not necessarily headed to TV next, but I can say this: Bl. Fulton Sheen is who I want to emulate the most in this work, because he made one thing his priority: proclaim God’s love to His people, who are lovable. Thank you to the @FultonSheen foundation & @peoriadiocese & @bshplou for this incredible honor. And Bl. Fulton J. Sheen, patron of my home studio where all that radio & podcasting is done, pray for us.