The Holy Hour: Your Defense Against Evil

This powerful address by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen explains that the practice of a daily Holy Hour in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament is our primary defense against the pervasive influence of evil in the world. He argues that in a society where the forces of darkness are becoming increasingly bold, a casual or fragmented spiritual life is no longer sufficient. Sheen urges every priest, religious, and layperson to commit to one continuous hour of prayer before the Eucharist each day, not as a matter of mere devotion, but as a necessary spiritual discipline for our times.

Sheen emphasizes that the spiritual life is not static; we are either progressing or regressing. The insidious nature of evil, which he equates with "the hour" in Sacred Scripture, constantly seeks to erode our faith and moral compass. The Archbishop explains that just as a poisoned person needs an antidote, we who are affected by original sin and the evils of the world require the powerful remedy of the Holy Hour. This dedicated time with the Lord is not just for our personal sanctification but is an act of reparation for the sins of the world and a source of strength for the entire Church.

The Archbishop concludes by highlighting the profound intimacy with Christ that is cultivated during the Holy Hour, an intimacy developed through speaking to Him, seeing Him with the eyes of faith, and, for priests, the unique privilege of touching Him in the Eucharist. He asserts that this daily encounter with the Lord is the secret to spiritual power and effectiveness in ministry and in life. Sheen passionately testifies that his own strength and influence are a direct result of his daily Holy Hour, a practice he has faithfully maintained for over 50 years. He presents the Holy Hour not as a burden, but as the source of all grace, peace, and the indispensable means of becoming true instruments of Christ in a world that desperately needs His light.