Ministers of a New Medium: Broadcasting Theology in the Radio Ministries of Fulton J. Sheen and Walter A. Maier

Farney, the vice president for advancement, vocation, and alumni engagement at Wheaton College, delves into the lives, times, and careers of radio preachers Fulton J. Sheen and Walter A. Maier in his penetrating debut. Analyzing their programs, Farney shows how the conservative clerics’ conviction in “capital T truths” provided “blunt admonition” and “immutable authority” during the uncertainty of the Great Depression, WWII, and the early days of the Cold War. For example, Sheen often asserted that “only the Word of God could provide vital, salvific knowledge,” and Maier’s practice of drawing biblical parallels to contemporary times enhanced scripture’s “authority and impact by demonstrating applicability to twentieth century life.” The author also explores their individual styles, noting that Maier was dramatic and “breathlessly energetic” while Sheen privileged directness and sincerity. Farney’s comprehensive research reveals how the preachers engineered their programs to maximize appeal, and the author offers a superb analysis of how the topics covered on Sheen and Maier’s shows shaped and reflected their audiences’ interests. The result is an edifying examination of mid-century American Christian radio. (June)