EWTN Introduces Radio Essentials

Introducing EWTN Radio Essentials

A Spiritual Powerhouse for Listeners in this Difficult Time

Irondale, AL (EWTN) – EWTN Global Catholic Radio Network announces the launch of EWTN Radio Essentials.

“To assist listeners struggling to cope with the closing of so many churches due to the coronavirus pandemic, EWTN has temporarily transformed EWTN Radio Classics into EWTN Radio Essentials, a one-stop source for Mass and devotions,” said EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw. “On this channel, listeners will have the opportunity hear Mass eight times per day beginning at 8 a.m. ET. As people of faith know, prayer is what will get us all through this difficult time.”

Between Masses, listeners can join in various devotions, such as the Rosary, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, the Angelus, St. Michael’s Chaplet, and more. The schedule also includes programs featuring the wisdom of spiritual icons like Archbishop Fulton Sheen, Father Groeschel, Fr. Andrew Apostoli, Fr. George Rutler, and, of course, Mother Angelica.

You can find both EWTN Global Catholic Radio and EWTN Radio Essentials by downloading the EWTN app and clicking on “Live Streams” and then scrolling down to either “Listen Live – EWTN Radio” or “Listen Live – Radio Essentials.” Alternatively, you can access the channel online, by going to www.ewtn.com, clicking on Radio at the top of the page, then “Listen Live,” and finally click on “United States” where you will see a drop-down menu with “Radio Essentials.”

EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 38th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 global TV channels are broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 300 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN platforms also include radio services transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international AM & FM radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; one of the largest Catholic websites in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including Catholic News Agency, “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and several global news wire services; as well as EWTN Publishing, its book publishing division.

Spending Lent looking back at what the Church used to teach

Greetings in Christ to all my readers! 

I've mentioned before on this blog that I am a collector of old Catholic books - I'm a bit obsessed with them to be honest. If they are over 100 years old I want them. 

They played an enormous part in my conversion. I don't think just visiting any Novus Ordo Mass around me would have done it on its own because the parishes around here hardly reflect the Faith found in these old Catholic books. It was the combination of prayers, Mother Angelica's EWTN (side note here-if you're not watching Fr. Mitch's Scripture&Tradition you are missing out on some great teachings!), my need for the Truth, good Catholic family & friends and these wonderful old books that eventually led me and my children to become Catholic. 

Yesterday I decided to pull them out and read them for Lent. I've done this before and enjoyed it very much. This year I am going to share them on my blog for anyone interested in reading what our beloved Catholic Church used to teach us. 

There is one book I am likely to focus on the most, its "The Catholic Church Alone The One True Church of Christ" published by Catholic Educational Company, New York, Philadelphia in 1899. It's a personal favorite of mine.

Ebay offers this book: https://www.ebay.com/itm/1899-The-Catholic-Church-Alone-The-One-True-Church-of-Christ/264598032939

One of my plans for Lent is to not complain on this blog about the Pope or the goings on at the Vatican. Rather I want to go back to the teachings our previous Shepherds gave to help save our souls. With all the horrible news coming from the Church: corruption, scandals, abuse, homosexual clergy, heresies, etc., I really need to submerge myself in the good stuff- the stuff that helped me fall in love with the Church and want to be a part of it.

So for Lent, I will be sharing what I find in these old books on my blog. I hope you will check in and share your thoughts on these writings and maybe share some quotes from some of your own favorite books. 

I would love to hear your thoughts on Lent and what books you have decided to read or prayers you're doing. 

God bless you all! 

Julie 

EWTN Press Release: EWTN Launches New Website

EWTN, The Web’s Largest Catholic
Content Producer, Launches New Website

 Irondale, AL (EWTN) – EWTN, the Web’s largest Catholic content producer, announces the launch of a newly optimized, mobile friendly, thoroughly modern website, which allows viewers to easily access all of EWTN’s content across multiple platforms. Come see what the excitement is about at www.ewtn.com.

Content such as EWTN’s On Demand platform, links to daily homilies, EWTN news, live show topics and guest information, a library of more than 15,000 Church documents and catechetical resources, as well as current and historical Vatican news articles compiled over the past 20 years can be easily accessed with just one click – and that’s just the beginning.

Want to know more about EWTN’s famous foundress, the late Mother Angelica, or to pray the rosary with her? Want to hear the day’s daily Mass readings and an inspirational homily, listen live to EWTN television or radio, or catch up on the latest news from a Catholic perspective? It’s all there in one place.

In addition, rotating banners showcase the Network’s newest programs, special events, mini-series, documentaries, news programs and more. Viewers can also learn about how to join EWTN’s evangelization efforts via a link to our Media Missionary mini-site, or about job openings at the Network in our Employment section.

Now it’s easier than ever to join the millions of viewers who visit www.ewtn.com every day to find out what’s happening at the Network and around the world.

EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 38th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 global TV channels are broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 300 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN platforms also include radio services transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international AM & FM radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; one of the largest Catholic websites in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including Catholic News Agency, “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and several global news wire services; as well as EWTN Publishing, its book publishing division. 

EWTN's 2017 Family Celebration Comes to New England!

Come to EWTN’s 2017 Family Celebration in Worcester, Mass. 
Celebrate The 100th Anniversary of Fatima With Headliners Such AsFr. Mitch Pacwa, Marcus Grodi, Susan Conroy,Fr. Maurice Emelu & Donna Marie Cooper O’Boyle

Irondale, AL (EWTN) – Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Fatima with EWTN at the Network’s 2017 Family Celebration Sept. 9-10 at the DCU Convention Center in Worcester, Mass. Headliners include Father Mitch Pacwa (“EWTN Live”), Marcus Grodi (“The Journey Home”), Susan Conroy, Fr. Maurice Emelu, and Donna Marie Cooper O’Boyle.

EWTN's FREE 2017 Family Celebration comes to Worcester, Mass. Sept. 9-10. For more information, please go to www.ewtn.com/familycelebration

In addition, EWTN Chairman & CEO Michael P. Warsaw will host a not-to-be-missed Family Talk with EWTN President Doug Keck (“EWTN Bookmark”), EWTN Chaplain Father Joseph Mary Wolfe, the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word, and more.

“My favorite part of every Celebration is meeting our EWTN Family members from near and far,” Warsaw said. “This Celebration is our thank you to them for their love and support throughout the years.”

Super EWTN fans at one of EWTN's annual Family Celebrations! This year, the EWTN Family Celebration arrives in Worcester, Mass. Sept. 9-10. For further information, go to www.ewtn.com/familycelebration

The headlining talks are only the beginning. Guests will also have the opportunity to be part of a studio audience for a taping of a special “EWTN Family Celebration Live Show,” celebrate Mass with Worcester Bishop Robert J. McManus and EWTN’s Friars, and meet EWTN hosts and authors while browsing the EWTN Religious Catalogue shop. 

Plus, there will be plenty of opportunity for Adoration and Confession, and children will be thrilled to meet some of their favorite characters from “EWTN Faith Factory.” EWTN Radio will broadcast live on-site throughout the weekend and staff from the National Catholic Register will be on hand to answer your questions. You’ll even have an opportunity to join EWTN in its mission of evangelization by becoming an EWTN Media Missionary!

It’s a feast for the mind, the heart, and the spirit! For more information, please go to our website: http://www.ewtn.com/familycelebration/.

We look forward to seeing you there!

EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 36th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 TV channels are broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 268 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN platforms also include radio services transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international AM & FM radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; the largest Catholic website in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including Catholic News Agency, “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and several global news wire services; as well as EWTN Publishing, its book publishing division.

EWTN Press Release: EWTN Pro-Life Weekly

‘EWTN Pro-Life Weekly’ to Debut with January Special 

New Show, In Partnership with Susan B. Anthony List, Helps Viewers Create a Culture of Life

Irondale, AL (EWTN) – EWTN Global Catholic Network, in partnership with the Susan B. Anthony List, will launch a new half-hour weekly program that will inform and educate viewers about current issues of importance in advancing a culture of life. 
“EWTN Pro-Life Weekly” will launch with a January special on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 5 p.m. ET with an encore on a Friday, Jan. 27, at 5:30 p.m. ET.  The show will begin airing each week at 11 p.m. ET Fridays, 10 a.m. ET Sundays, and 3 a.m. ET Mondays starting March 3, 2017.

“Despite the fact that there are many signs of hope, our culture continues to chip away at the right to life from conception to natural death,” said EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw. “I believe this is the perfect time to produce a show that takes pro-life reporting and analysis to the next level. ‘EWTN Pro-Life Weekly’ not only seeks to inform, but also to show viewers how to engage everyone from their friends and neighbors to their elected representatives on the life issues. The show will also focus on those who are already doing great work, such as the Susan B. Anthony List. Our goal is that viewers will be motivated, inspired, and equipped to make a difference.”

“Susan B. Anthony List is thrilled to partner with EWTN on this program that will go beyond delivering news,” said Susan B. Anthony List President Marjorie Dannenfelser. “We will call on our audience to take concrete action to enact lifesaving legislation for unborn children and their mothers. SBA List will bring our political insight, legislative analysis, as well as relationships with legislators and members of the media to help create a dynamic, must-watch program. The show will collapse the distance between the White House, Congress, the press, and those at home who care deeply about saving unborn boys and girls, who want to know what more than can do. Viewers will meet the key players, see what they see, and become a part of the grassroots army engaged in high-stakes fights. With a pro-life White House and Congress, our movement is in the strongest position possible to advance historic protections for the unborn.”

Catherine Szeltner, who was first introduced to viewers as a correspondent with “EWTN News Nightly,” will serve as the host for the program. “We want to help viewers become actively involved in the pro-life movement, said Szeltner. “What are the expectations here? What’s realistic? What’s not? What is Congress debating now? How do we hold our lawmakers accountable for their pro-life promises? Each program will feature a call to action segment that is intended to very clearly give people the steps they can take to become engaged in the fight for life. This is the main vision for the show.”

“In addition, said Szeltner, “we will be the authoritative resource for the latest pro-life news. We’ll explain what’s happened each week, especially as it concerns abortion and assisted suicide. We also want to be a platform for dialogue on confusing questions so viewers can walk away feeling more confident about engaging in the discussion. We’ll end with a segment on a group or person who is building up the culture of life.”

While abortion and assisted suicide are major concerns, Szeltner says the show will take a “holistic, Catholic approach,” which means that the show will focus on pro-life issues in all areas and stages of life.

The debut special will air right before the March for Life and will include a look at expectations for the new Trump Administration, ways to get involved with the pro-life movement, and a powerful interview with a survivor of an abortion attempt.”

EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 36th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 TV channels are broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 268 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN platforms also include radio services transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international AM & FM radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; the largest Catholic website in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including Catholic News Agency, “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and several global news wire services; as well as EWTN Publishing, its book publishing division.

Susan B. Anthony List is a network of more than 465,000 pro-life Americans dedicated to pursuing policies and electing candidates who will reduce and ultimately end abortion. To that end, SBA List emphasizes the education, promotion, mobilization, and election of pro-life women.  SBA List’s education arm, the Charlotte Lozier Institute, provides the latest scientific research, statistical data, and public policy analysis on human life issues to activists and legislators across the United States and around the world.



Photo Caption #1: EWTN Global Catholic Network, in partnership with the Susan B. Anthony List, will launch "EWTN Pro-Life Weekly" with Host Catherine Szeltner. The new half-hour program, which will inform and educate viewers about current issues of importance in advancing a culture of life, debuts with a January special at 5 p.m. ET, Thursday, Jan. 26, and encores at 5:30 p.m. ET, Friday, Jan. 27.


Photo Caption #2: Host Catherine Szeltner and Susan B. Anthony List President Marjorie Dannenfelser on the set of "EWTN Pro-Life Weekly," which debuts with a January special at 5 p.m. ET, Thursday, Jan. 26, with an encore at 5:30 p.m. ET, Friday, Jan. 27. EWTN's new half-hour weekly program, in partnership with the Susan B. Anthony List, will inform and educate viewers about current issues of importance in advancing a culture of life.

EWTN Press Release: Road to be named after Mother Angelica

City of Irondale Honors EWTN Foundress With ‘Mother Angelica Way’

Public Is Invited To Dedication Ceremony That IncludesUnveiling of Memorial Sign, Network Open House & More

Irondale, AL (EWTN) – The City of Irondale, which is home to EWTN Global Catholic Network, will be honoring the Network’s iconic foundress by renaming a portion of Old Leeds Road “Mother Angelica Way.” 
The public and the press are invited to attend a ceremony in which Irondale Mayor Tommy Joe Alexander and EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw will formally dedicate the portion of Old Leeds Road and unveil a new memorial sign. The ceremony, which will also include local leaders, members of the community, visitors, and EWTN employees will take place at 10 a.m. CT, Friday, Sept. 16 directly across the street from the Network’s exit onto Old Leeds Road.

Following the dedication, the public is invited to tour the Network with EWTN’s friars, and to enjoy light refreshments. 

“This is a great honor to Mother Angelica,” Warsaw said. “We want to thank Mayor Alexander, the Irondale City Council, City Clerk James D. Stewart, and Irondale Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tellis Shoemaker for paying tribute to her in this way. EWTN has been pleased to make Irondale our home for over 35 years – and, with God’s grace, we intend to enjoy another 35 years in our city.”

This weekend, September 17-18, also happens to be the date of EWTN’s annual Family Celebration at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex in downtown Birmingham. 

“Everyone is also invited to attend this free event,” Warsaw continued, “which will honor the life and legacy of our beloved Foundress, and showcase many of our most popular television hosts.”

For further information about the Family Celebration, and a schedule of events, please visit www.ewtn.com/familycelebration.

EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 36th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 TV channels are broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 265 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN services also include radio services transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international AM & FM radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; the largest Catholic website in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and two global wire services; as well as a publishing arm.

EDITOR'S NOTE: One lane of Old Leeds Road (from Belmont Road to Grants Mill Road) will be closed from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Friday, Sept. 16. Both lanes will be closed from just before the ceremony, 9:45 a.m., until approximately 10:30 a.m. 

EWTN takes on the Pope Francis problem

Kudos to EWTN!  It is refreshing to see EWTN addressing the scandalous statements made by Pope Francis that have caused so much confusion among the laity. Hearing this report from EWTN, a most trusted source for Catholics around the world is soothing. It means we aren't going crazy, the pope said some things that truly are bothersome and must be addressed honestly by Catholic media. I think Mother Angelica would be proud.

EWTN's National Catholic Register recently published an article by Msgr. Charles Pope on the confusing, hurtful and chaotic things Pope Francis has said, if you haven't read it yet, please do.  It's an excellent article. I am going to quote a few parts here that stood out to me.

quote(in part): I write these remarks simply as a parish priest. I am not a canonist and certainly not a reporter. I react simply as a priest to what has been reported all week, and write here the reaction of one man and priest—me.
First, it is reported that the Pope said pastors should not be “putting our noses into the moral life of other people.”
Permit me to state my utter bewilderment at such a notion. As a priest, and especially as a confessor and spiritual director this is my duty! It is true that I am not to unnecessarily pry into the private lives of parishioners. But surely there is a requirement that as a confessor and a pastor I have some sense of the moral life of those to whom I minister.

And...

quote(in part): But it is beyond lamentable that the Pope, as initially reported, should have called priests (or any human being for that matter) “animals.” Such a word should never have come out of his mouth, and I would hope for an apology for this offensive characterization, not merely a Vatican “clarification.” I certainly have some differences with brother priests, I would call my differences with dissenting priests significant. But this does not permit me to call them animals, and the Pope, who seems to have done so, has no business doing it either. Admittedly the recorded comments are hard to follow, but the cleansed Vatican transcript is more in the mode of “Let’s pretend this was never said as recorded” rather than a clear denial—“The Pope wants to say he not consider priest animals, even though he thinks some are too hard-lined on this matter.”
It will be admitted that Pope Gregory (in his Pastoral Rule) once said that silent priests who failed to rebuke sinners were like “dumb dogs that cannot bark.” But he was using a metaphor, and quoting Scripture. He did not univocally call them dogs, he said they were “like” or in the mode of dumb dogs that cannot warn of danger. But there is nothing in this recent Pope’s comments that suggests metaphor or simile. He just outright called priests whose prudential judgments he doubts “animals”. “They’re animals” he said.
I pray that never again will we hear reported such a rude and unnecessary remark from this pope or any pope. No human person should be called an animal by a pope or any anyone, for that matter. Metaphors and similes have their place in human discourse, but to univocally call a fellow human being and animal is out of line.

And...

quote(in part): Please, Holy Father: Enough of these ad hoc, off-the-cuff, impromptu sessions, whether at thirty thousand feet or at ground level. Much harm through confusion has been caused by these latest remarks on marriage, cohabitation, baptism, confession, and pastoral practice. Simply cleaning the record in the official transcript is not enough; this is an era of instant reportage and lots of recording devices, tweets, and Instagrams.
Just this priest’s perspective. But I can assure you, dear reader, that the impact hits priests hard, and I cannot deny a certain weariness and discouragement at this point. I realize that such remarks of the Pope are not doctrinal, but just try and tell that to gleeful dissenters and the morally confused or misled in this world.

Please read the entire article at EWTN's National Catholic Register.

It didn't stop there, EWTN's Raymond Arroyo gathered together his "papal posse" to address the problems with what Pope Francis has been saying.

(*Thanks to Re-Store DC Catholicism for the heads up on this one) 

I think Raymond's interview taking on these scandalous statements by Pope Francis was excellent. No head in the sand, pretending to be ostriches and no excuses. What the Pope has said is WRONG. Period. 

There was a particular story Raymond tells about a friend who heard the Pope's words on shacking up in fornication and wanted a Catholic priest to "bless" his fornication because that is what he heard the Pope say. This confusion has spread around the world and the Vatican hasn't cleaned it up-yet (I believe they will).

It is extremely bothersome to me (and I am guessing many others) that every time Francis speaks his mind, the Vatican has to jump up and say "Wait a minute! The Pope didn't mean that, he meant...".  I thank God that the Church is always there to correct the Pope, but I think its horrendous that this has to happen every time Francis speaks his mind. We are seeing what Pope Francis truly believes- and it doesn't match authentic Catholic teaching.  This is a problem. 

Great work EWTN for facing this problem and not pretending it doesn't exist.

God bless! 


In Christ,


Julie @ Connecticut Catholic Corner 



Sources: 

http://www.ncregister.com/blog/msgr-pope/one-priests-concern-about-recent-remarks-by-the-pope/

EWTN will be televising all Mother Angelica's Memorial Events globally

Schedule of Memorial Events Announced for Mother Mary Angelica, P.C.P.A.

Irondale, AL (EWTN) – EWTN Global Catholic Network has announced the schedule of memorial events for its Foundress Mother Mary Angelica, P.C.P.A., who died Easter Sunday, March 27, at 5 p.m. CDT. All events will be held at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama and will be televised globally on EWTN. Times listed are U.S. Central (CDT):

Tuesday, March 29
3 PM: Rite of Reception of Mother Angelica’s Body.
Mother Angelica’s body will be received in a ceremony and escorted through the Piazza of the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Upon conclusion of the Procession, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy will be prayed in the Shrine’s Upper Church and the body will be transferred to the Monastery Cloister for private visitation with the Poor Clare Nuns of Perpetual Adoration.

Wednesday, March 30
10 AM: Rosary in Memoriam and Public Visitation.
A public rosary will be led by Fr. Miguel Marie Soeherman, MFVA in the Upper Church of the Shrine. Upon conclusion of the Rosary, a public visitation will begin.

7 PM: Rosary in Memoriam and Conclusion of Public Visitation.
Fr. Joseph Mary Wolfe, MFVA will lead a Rosary in the Upper Church of the Shrine to conclude Public Visitation for the day.

Thursday, March 31
10 AM: Rosary in Memoriam and Public Visitation.
A public rosary will be led by Fr. Miguel Marie Soeherman, MFVA in the Upper Church of the Shrine. Upon conclusion of the Rosary, a public visitation will begin.

5 PM: Solemn Vespers.
Evening Prayer will be chanted by the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word, the Community of Religious Men founded by Mother Angelica.

7 PM: Vigil Service and Rosary at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament will be led by Bishop Robert J. Baker of Birmingham.
Music will be performed by a Schola composed of the Canons Regular of Saint John Cantius in Chicago. The Homilist will be Fr. Miguel Marie Soeherman, MFVA.

Friday, April 1
11 AM: Mass of Christian Burial and Rite of Committal.
The funeral Mass will be celebrated in the Shrine’s Upper Church by bishops and clergy from around the world. The homilist will be Fr. Joseph Mary Wolfe, MFVA. The Mass will conclude with a Procession carrying Mother Angelica’s body through the Shrine’s Piazza and into the Crypt. The procession will be followed by the Rite of Committal and interment in the Crypt Chapel.


Because of limited seating capacity, admission to the Shrine for the funeral Mass will be by invitation only. The public may participate directly outside, in the Shrine’s piazza. For a complete schedule of all memorial events and programming information, visit www.ewtn.com.  

Mother Angelica Dies at 92

Mother Angelica Dies at 92

Founded the EWTN Global Catholic Network

Irondale, AL (EWTN) Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, P.C.P.A., known to millions around the world as Foundress of the EWTN Global Catholic Network, died peacefully at 5 p.m. CDT, Easter Sunday, March 27, surrounded by the Poor Clare Nuns of Perpetual Adoration of Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Hanceville, Ala.

“This is a sorrow-filled day for the entire EWTN Family,” said EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw. “Mother has always, and will always, personify EWTN, the Network which she founded. In the face of sickness and long-suffering trials, Mother’s example of joy and prayerful perseverance exemplified the Franciscan spirit she held so dear. We thank God for Mother Angelica and for the gift of her extraordinary life.”

Born Rita Antoinette Rizzo in Canton, Ohio in 1923, she entered the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in Cleveland on Aug. 15, 1944 at the age of 21. A year later, she received her religious name – Sister Mary Angelica of the Annunciation. Soon after, the Cleveland Monastery established a new foundation in Canton, and Sr. Angelica was chosen to be a member of the community there. On Jan. 2, 1947 she made her first profession of vows and in January 1953, Sister Angelica took her solemn vows as a Poor Clare nun.

In 1956, while awaiting a delicate spinal surgery, Sister Angelica made a promise that, if God would permit her to walk again, she would build a monastery in the South. On May 20, 1962, Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Irondale, Ala. was dedicated by Archbishop Thomas J. Toolen of Mobile. 
In Irondale, Mother Angelica’s vision took form and her distinctive approach to teaching the Catholic Faith led to parish talks, the publication of pamphlets and books, then radio and television opportunities. By 1980, the Nuns had converted the garage of their monastery into a television studio.

Despite having only a high school education, no television experience and only $200 in the bank, Mother Angelica officially launched the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) on Aug. 15, 1981 and served as the Network’s first Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. She famously refused to air paid advertisements to fund her Network, relying solely on viewer donations, despite coming close to bankruptcy on several occasions.

More than 34 years later, EWTN is the largest Catholic media network in the world, transmitting 11 separate television channels in multiple languages, reaching more than 264 million homes in 145 countries and territories. The Network now also includes multiple radio platforms, online and digital media outlets, global news services and a publishing group.

Known for her humor and ability to colloquially communicate the Catholic Faith to both Catholics and non-Catholics alike, her popular EWTN television show, “Mother Angelica Live” was launched in 1983. Episodes of the program continue to air regularly and have been translated into multiple languages including Spanish, German, and Ukrainian.

In addition to the Eternal Word Television Network and Our Lady of the Angels Monastery, Mother Angelica also founded the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word, a religious community of men based in Irondale.

In 1995, Mother Angelica was inspired by God to begin construction of a new monastery and church on a nearly 400 acre site in rural Hanceville, Ala. By 1999, the nuns relocated from Irondale to the new site in Hanceville. Our Lady of the Angels Monastery and the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament were formally dedicated in December 1999. The Shrine remains one of the most visited tourist sites in the State of Alabama.

Before stepping down as EWTN’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 2000, Time magazine described Mother Angelica as, "arguably the most influential Roman Catholic woman in America.”
Throughout her life, she struggled with painful illnesses and physical challenges.  On Christmas Eve of 2001, Mother Angelica suffered a debilitating stroke and cerebral hemorrhage which took away her capacity to speak.

In 2009, she was awarded the prestigious Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal by Pope Benedict XVI in recognition of her faithful and extraordinary service to the Roman Catholic Church. This past February, while on board the plane taking him to Cuba, Pope Francis sent a special blessing to Mother Angelica, and asked her for her prayers.

Mother Angelica’s final years were prayerful and quiet, spent with her nuns at the Monastery she built in Hanceville.  

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. CDT, Friday, April 1 at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville. Interment will immediately follow in the Shrine’s Crypt Church.


Because of limited seating capacity, admission to the Shrine for the funeral Mass will be by invitation only. The public may participate directly outside, in the Shrine’s piazza.  Services will be broadcast by EWTN. Further information is available at www.ewtn.com.

*******

Catholic Leaders React to the Passing of Mother Mary Angelica, P.C.P.A. 

Irondale, AL (EWTN) – Following the announcement of the death of Mother Mary Angelica, P.C.P.A. this evening, several Catholic leaders issued statements reacting to the news of her passing. Known to millions of television viewers around the world, Mother Angelica founded two thriving religious orders, as well as EWTN, the world’s largest religious media network. Mother Angelica died at 5 p.m. CDT, Easter Sunday, March 27, at Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Hanceville, Ala.

Mother Dolores Marie, Superior of the Poor Clare Nuns of Perpetual Adoration of Our Lady of the Angels Monastery:
“Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, P.C.P.A. passed peacefully from this life at Our Lady of the Angels Monastery on 5 p.m. CDT, Easter Sunday, March 27, in this Jubilee Year of Mercy, surrounded by the prayers and love of her spiritual daughters, sons and dear friends. Known as “Mother to Millions” to her EWTN Family, she untiringly exhorted all to pursue holiness by living with God in the present moment. We are grateful for your prayers for this courageous daughter of the Church and your support of EWTN, the media network that she founded for the salvation of souls. May our beloved Mother Angelica, Foundress of EWTN, enter through the Mercy of God into the joy of Heaven.”

EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw: 
“This is a sorrow-filled day for the entire EWTN Family. Mother has always, and will always, personify EWTN, the Network which she founded. In the face of sickness and long-suffering trials, Mother’s example of joy and prayerful perseverance exemplified the Franciscan spirit she held so dear. We thank God for Mother Angelica and for the gift of her extraordinary life. Her accomplishments and legacies in evangelization throughout the world are nothing short of miraculous and can only be attributed to Divine Providence and her unwavering faithfulness to Our Lord. The important thing, as Mother Angelica’s life and the lives so many of the saints have shown us, is to be faithful and to persevere. Mother Angelica’s life has been a life of faith; her prayer life and obedience to God are worthy of our imitation.  Everything she did was an act of faith.”

The Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Philadelphia:
“Mother Angelica succeeded at a task the nation’s bishops themselves couldn’t achieve.  She founded and grew a network that appealed to everyday Catholics, understood their needs and fed their spirits. Mother Angelica inspired other gifted people to join her in the work without compromising her own leadership and vision. I admired her very much, not just as a talented leader and communicator, but as a friend and great woman religious of generosity, intellect and Catholic faith.”

The Most Reverend Robert J. Baker, Bishop of Birmingham in Alabama:
“Mother Angelica brought the truth and the love and the life of the Gospel of Jesus to so many people, not only to our Catholic household of faith, but to many thousands of people who are not Catholic, in that beautiful way she had of touching lives, bringing so many people into the Catholic Faith.”

Father Anthony Mary Stelten, M.F.V.A., Community Servant, Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word:
“The Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word are deeply saddened by the death of our Foundress, Mother Mary Angelica, P.C.P.A. Mother was an inspiration for all of us in her contemplative life of adoration before the Most Blessed Sacrament and in the deep, personal relationship that she had with the Lord. Her friendly manner, pleasant wit, vision and enthusiastic zeal for evangelization so animated her mission at EWTN and inspired all who had the privilege of getting to know her in person or through the Network. In founding our Community, Mother Angelica imbued our manner of life with her own profound love for the Real Presence, devotion to Our Lady and the spirituality of St. Francis. She shared with us her special charism of evangelization through the modern means of social communication, most especially through service to the apostolate of EWTN. The friars will always treasure the unique relationship we had with Mother Angelica and the way of life that she inspired for us.”

Carl A. Anderson, Supreme Knight, Knights of Columbus:

“In passing to eternal life, Mother Angelica leaves behind a legacy of holiness and commitment to the New Evangelization that should inspire us all. I was honored to know and be able to assist Mother Angelica during the early days of EWTN. Over the years, that relationship grew, and today the Knights of Columbus and EWTN partner regularly on important projects. Mother Angelica was fearless, because she had God on her side. She saw what He needed her to do and she did it! She transformed the world of Catholic broadcasting, and brought the Gospel to far corners of our world. That witness of faith was unmistakable to anyone who met and worked with her, and generations of Catholics have, and will continue to be formed by her vision, and her "yes" to God's will.”

EWTN Press Release: Court rules against EWTN in HHS Mandate Case

Appeals Court Rules Against EWTN in HHS Mandate Case

11^th Circuit Court of Appeals Refuses to Protect Catholic Network

Irondale, AL (EWTN) –This afternoon, the 11^th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in Atlanta ruled against EWTN Global Catholic Network in its long-running battle against the government’s insurance mandate requiring employer-sponsored health plans to provide coverage for contraception, sterilizations and abortion-inducing drugs. A three-judge panel issued a 2-1 decision more than a year after oral arguments before the Appeals Court.

“We are extremely disappointed that the Court has refused to protect our religious freedom,” said EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw. “This decision by the Court of Appeals ignores the arguments that EWTN and numerous plaintiffs around the country have made with regard to this mandate. In effect, this decision orders EWTN to violate its religious beliefs and comply with the government’s HHS mandate or pay massive fines to the IRS.”

In the majority opinion, the Court stated "We accept the plaintiffs’ sincere belief . . . that the accommodation puts them to a choice between honoring their religious beliefs and facing significant penalties. We nonetheless conclude that the accommodation imposes no substantial burden." 

“This is wrong,’ said Lori Windham, Senior Counsel of the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty and lead attorney on the case. “Rather than provide these drugs and devices through its own exchanges, our government wants to punish EWTN for practicing its faith. This 2-1 decision is not the end. The government’s unconstitutional mandate has lost repeatedly at the Supreme Court, and we believe it will lose again.”
EWTN filed its original lawsuit Feb. 9, 2012 against the Department of Health & Human Services, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, and other government agencies seeking to stop the imposition of the contraception mandate as well as asking the court for a declaratory judgment that the mandate is unconstitutional. The Attorney General of the State of Alabama filed a motion to join EWTN March 22, 2012 as a plaintiff in the lawsuit. That lawsuit was dismissed pending the final HHS mandate rules.

The final rules promulgated in July 2013 granted no relief to EWTN.  In October 2013, EWTN and Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange joined together to challenge the unconstitutional HHS mandate. A federal judge ruled against EWTN in that case as well.  Hours after the US Supreme Court decision in the Hobby Lobby case in June 2014, the 11^th Circuit granted EWTN an emergency injunction, protecting EWTN from the mandate while it filed an appeal. Today, a different panel of judges rendered a split decision, voting 2-1 against EWTN.

In a blistering dissent, Judge Gerald Bard Tjoflat stated: "The majority runs roughshod over the sincerely held religious objections of Eternal Word Television Network," and concluded that "at bottom, the majority’s reasoning takes aim at the heart of RFRA (the Religious Freedom Restoration Act) itself."

Said Warsaw: “As we have said repeatedly, contraception, abortion-inducing drugs and voluntary sterilization are not health care and the government should not force EWTN to provide them as part of our employer-sponsored health plan. We are grateful for the prayers and support of the EWTN Family over the course of this litigation, as well as all those who have written in support of our lawsuit and in support of religious liberty. We ask for continued prayers as we consider our response to the Court’s decision.”


EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 35th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 networks broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 264 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN services include direct broadcast satellite television and radio; AM & FM radio networks transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; the largest Catholic website in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and two global wire services; as well as a publishing arm.

Pope sends greeting to Mother Angelica

Pope Sends Greetings To EWTN Foundress

Mother Angelica From Aboard the Papal Plane

Irondale, AL (EWTN) – Pope Francis sent his greetings this morning to EWTN Foundress Mother Mary Angelica from aboard the papal plane to Cuba for his historic meeting with Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill. 

(View it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOOfuRP820s.) Following the meeting with Patriarch Kirill, the Pope will continue on a multi-day trip to Mexico.

“To Mother Angelica with my blessing and I ask you to pray for me; I need it,” the Pope said. “God bless you Mother Angelica.”

“On behalf of Mother Angelica, I thank the Holy Father for his greeting and want him to know that Mother, her Nuns and the EWTN family will be praying for him and for the success of this  historic journey,” said EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw.


EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 35th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 networks broadcast the Gospel message in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 264 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. Properties include direct broadcast satellite television and radio services; AM & FM radio networks transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and almost 500 Catholic domestic and international radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio station; the largest Catholic website in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and two global wire services; as well as a publishing arm. 

EWTN: Merry Christmas Family!

Merry Christmas Family! 

Discover the Christmas and Advent traditions unique to the Maronite Church. The Most Reverend Abdallah Elias Zaidan of Our Lady of Lebanon Catholic Church joins Host Fr. Mitch Pacwa for “EWTN Live”!  Airs 8 p.m. ET, Wednesday, Dec. 23--exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Celebrate Christmas with very special members of the EWTN Family. EWTN President and “Bookmark” Host Doug Keck, Creative Services Vice President Len Marino and his wife Lorna, and Producer Debbie Cowden and husband David guest on a very special “At Home with Jim & Joy”! Airs 2 p.m. ET, Thursday, Dec. 24--exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Don’t miss “Solemn Mass of ‪#‎Christmas Eve in Rome!” #‎PopeFrancis celebrates the Solemnity of the Birth of Our Lord, from St. Peter's Basilica. Airs live at 3:30 p.m. ET, Thursday, Dec. 24; and at 1 a.m. & 7 p.m. ET, Friday, Dec. 25. Find out more at http://www.ewtn.com/tv/index.asp. Find #EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Don't miss "Midnight Mass from The Holy Land!" Airs live at 6 p.m. ET, Thursday, Dec. 24. Find out more at http://www.ewtn.com/tv/index.asp. Find #EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder. 

Don’t miss “Choral Meditations of the Nativity!” From the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. Musical Compositions for the Birth of Our Lord. Airs live at 10 p.m. ET, Thursday, Dec. 24; and 1:30 p.m. ET, Saturday, Dec. 26. Find out more at http://www.ewtn.com/tv/index.asp. Find #EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Don’t miss “Solemn Mass of #Christmas Eve at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception!” From Washington, D.C. Airs live at 10:30 p.m. ET, Thursday, Dec. 24.  

Don’t miss “Solemn Mass of Christmas-EWTN!” The Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word celebrate Midnight Mass from Our Lady of the Anglels Chapel in Irondale, AL. Airs live at 8 a.m. ET, Friday, Dec. 25; and at 12 a.m. ET, Saturday, Dec. 26. Find out more at http://www.ewtn.com/tv/index.asp.  

Don’t miss “Urbi Et Orbi: Message & Blessing!”
Pope Francis gives his Christmas blessing to the city of Rome and the world. Airs live at 6 a.m. ET, Friday, Dec. 25, with encores at 9 p.m. ET, Friday, Dec. 25; 2 p.m. ET, Saturday, Dec. 26; 6 p.m. ET, Sunday, Dec. 27; 5:30 p.m. ET, Thursday, Dec. 31. Find out more at http://www.ewtn.com/tv/index.asp.  

Don’t miss “Solemn Mass of Christmas Day!”
From the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., with celebrant Donald Cardinal Wuerl, Archbishop of Washington. Airs live at 12 p.m. ET, Friday, Dec. 25. Find out more at http://www.ewtn.com/tv/index.asp. Find #EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Tune in to the next “EWTN Bookmark”! Author David Carollo recalls the remarkable life of Sister Maria Lucia in the biography, "A Pathway Under the Gaze of Mary" and Fr. Chris Alar presents "The Year of Divine Mercy". Airs 9:30 a.m. ET, Sunday, Dec. 27--exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder. 

#PopeFrancis celebrates Holy Mass on the Feast of the Holy Family. “Holy Mass for Families” airs 12 p.m. ET, Sunday, Dec. 27— exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Where do the candidates stand on the moral issues such as life, marriage, family, and religious liberty? Find out when Host Professor Robert George, one of the most respected constitutional scholars in the U.S., goes one-on-one with former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania. You won’t want to miss “Candidate Conversations with Robert George”! Airs 10 a.m. ET, Sunday, Dec. 27— exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

#PopeFrancis celebrates Holy Mass on the Feast of the Holy Family. “Holy Mass for Families” airs 12 p.m. ET, Sunday, Dec. 27— exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Don’t miss “SOLEMN MASS OF REPARATION FROM EWTN!”
On New Year's Eve, the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word celebrate and pray to make atonement for the sins of the past year so that we may begin the year anew. Airs live at 12 a.m. ET, Friday, Jan. 1, with encores at 8 a.m. ET, Friday, Jan. 1; 6:30 p.m. ET, Friday, Jan. 1; 12 a.m. ET, Saturday, Jan. 2. Find out more at http://www.ewtn.com/tv/index.asp. Find #EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Don’t miss “SOLEMNITY OF MARY, MOTHER OF GOD!”
#PopeFrancis celebrates from St. Peter's Basilica, New Year's Day. Airs live at 4 a.m. ET, Friday, Jan. 1, with an encore at 6:30 p.m. ET, Friday, Jan. 1. Find out more at http://www.ewtn.com/tv/index.asp. Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

#PopeFrancis celebrates “Holy Mass and Opening of the Holy Door at the Basilica of St. Mary Major”! Airs 11 a.m. Et, Friday, January 1 — exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.

Relive your favorite 2015 moments. Join Co-Hosts Fr. Mark and Doug Barry for a special “Life on the Rock”! Airs 8 p.m. ET, Friday, January 1 — exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

You can avoid falling into heresy. Author Stephen Bullivant discusses the Church's teaching on The Trinity, and offers an easy-to-understand explanation of this mystery in his book, "The Trinity: How Not to be a Heretic." Join Host Doug Keck for “EWTN Bookmark”. Airs 9:30 a.m. ET, Sunday, Jan. 3— exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.  

Where do the candidates stand on the moral issues such as life, marriage, family, and religious liberty? Find out when Host Professor Robert George, one of the most respected constitutional scholars in the U.S., goes one-on-one with former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore. You won’t want to miss “Candidate Conversations with Robert George”! Airs 10 a.m. ET, Sunday, Jan. 3— exclusively on #EWTN! Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.