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 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: 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.
Catholic radio is a most effective tool for evangelization, and it is one of the most significant contributors to renewal in the dioceses in which it is broadcast. Some of the measurable results have been: an increase in RCIA participation, an increase in vocations, an increase in stewardship, and an increase in parish participation.
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, Baraga Broadcasting covers areas of Northern Michigan and Good Shepherd Radio covers the Jackson area.
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 501(c)(3) organization. It relies primarily on donations from listeners, with partial support from business underwriters.
Q: Will HOLY FAMILY RADIO be supported by advertisers?
A: Holy Family Radio operational expenses will be partially supported by underwriting, not advertising, from businesses and Catholic organizations interested in supporting the mission of Catholic radio.
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:
1410 Plainfield Ave. NE, Suite 200, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.
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