Q: What was the genesis of Catholic Radio in West Michigan?
A: The HOLY FAMILY RADIO lay apostolate was organized in January 2008 as a means of Catholic evangelization, education and ecumenical outreach. The singular goal is to share the life-changing, life-saving message of the Gospel – the truths of the Catholic faith. In June 2008, HOLY FAMILY RADIO was incorporated as a Michigan non-profit organization.
This apostolate was inspired by Blessed John Paul II’s call for a “New Springtime of Evangelization” and his belief that modern media are an indispensable means of achieving it. In Ecclesia in America (The Church in America) he wrote, “Using the media correctly and competently can lead to a genuine enculturation of the Gospel.” Pope Benedict XVI’s dedication of “The Year of Saint Paul – The Year of Evangelization” (June 2008-June 2009) also inspired this apostolate work.
Q: What is the mission of HOLY FAMILY RADIO?
A: HOLY FAMILY RADIO is a lay apostolate dedicated to broadcasting knowledge, love and practice of the Roman Catholic faith. It seeks to offer a spiritual and educational gift to all listeners to help build stronger marriages and families, greater unity, and growth in discipleship and apostleship.
Q: What is the Theological foundation for HOLY FAMILY RADIO?
A: HOLY FAMILY RADIO declares an absolute faithfulness to the Holy Father and the bishops in union with him. We are bound to transmit the Catholic faith accurately and fully as instructed through the Teaching Authority of the Church. Our programming is bound by the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It defines our service to the faithful, our obedience to the bishop of our diocese, and our assistance to local priests and religious.
Q: What kind of programming does HOLY FAMILY RADIO offer?
A: HOLY FAMILY RADIO is an all-talk format offering programming for all ages, seasons of life, and stages of faith. The mix includes national programming from EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network), Ave Maria Radio, Catholic Answers Live and others. Plans are underway for more local programming as well – live in studio, live remote, and field produced. The focus of all programming is to explore the truths of the Catholic faith and provide answers for those who are searching for them. Current programs also encourage vocations, address family and relationship issues and provide encouragement and support in a secular world.
Q: Why is Catholic radio needed in West Michigan?
A: Catholic radio is a direct response to the Papal call for evangelization. It reaches people wherever they are: at home, at work, and on the road. Media is an essential part of everyday life and radio, in particular, is a powerful instrument for reaching souls in a personal way.
Radio is available, personal, continuous, immediate, timely, efficacious and cost-effective. With live online audio streaming and social media platforms, radio program content reaches more and more people every day.
Catholic radio has demonstrated significant success and growth in recent years. In 1996, only seven Catholic radio stations were broadcasting in the United States. Today, there are 185 stations. 350 are expected by 2015!
Q: Where else is Catholic Radio currently heard in Michigan?
A: Besides Holy Family Radio in West Michigan, Ave Maria radio covers areas of Southeast Michigan, and Baraga Broadcasting covers areas of Northern Michigan.
Q: What is the impact of Catholic Radio?
A: A recent nationwide poll of over 3,000 Catholic Radio listeners conducted by the Catholic Radio Association revealed the following:
- 94% are more spiritually engaged and inspired
- 63% are better able to teach their children the truths of the faith
- 29% came back to the Church because of the programming
- 48% attend Mass more frequently
- 52% are more involved with, and more generous to, their local parish
- 11% had their marriages saved
- 84% said they had learned a great deal about their Catholic faith, with half of these saying they learned more about their faith from Catholic Radio than any other source.
Q: What is the governance structure for HOLY FAMILY RADIO?
A: HOLY FAMILY RADIO is guided by a board of directors.
Q: How is HOLY FAMILY RADIO supported?
A: HOLY FAMILY RADIO is a listener-supported non-profit organization, 501(c)(3). It relies on donations from individuals, families, businesses, groups, and organizations.
Q: Will HOLY FAMILY RADIO be supported by advertisers?
A: No. HOLY FAMILY RADIO operational costs will be underwritten by people/businesses interested in supporting Catholic radio in West Michigan.
Q: Will the media fund within the Catholic Foundation of West Michigan support Holy Family Radio?
A: No. The media fund is used for other purposes, e.g., the televised Sunday Mass.
Q: Where is the station located?
A: The studios and offices are located at:
2504 Ardmore SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 40596.
Q: How is the station currently staffed?
A: Larry Nienhaus is the station general manager. Board members and volunteers contribute their time providing technical assistance and administrative support.
Q: What role will Bishop Hurley play in HOLY FAMILY RADIO?
A: In recent months, Bishop Hurley broadcast seasonal messages for the Diocese via HOLY FAMILY RADIO. However, he will not be directly involved with the station’s operation.
Q: Why should I support HOLY FAMILY RADIO?
A: There can be no greater cause and mission than changing lives and saving souls for all eternity. For half a century, the Popes have called for greater use of the media in efforts to evangelize.
HOLY FAMILY RADIO represents an opportunity to:
- Increase understanding of the faith among Catholics
- Assist Catholics in teaching their children about the Catholic faith
- Encourage fallen-away Catholics to return to their faith home
- Support struggling couples and families
- Introduce non-Catholics to our Catholic faith
