Mother Angelica, American nun and broadcaster, founded Eternal Word Television Network (d. 2016)

Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, born Rita Antoinette Rizzo on April 20, 1923, and who passed away on March 27, 2016, was a truly remarkable figure in modern Catholicism. Better known to millions simply as Mother Angelica, this American Roman Catholic nun of the cloistered Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration transcended the traditional boundaries of her contemplative order to become a trailblazing television personality. Her most enduring legacy is undoubtedly her role as the visionary founder of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), an international broadcast cable television network, and its accompanying radio network, WEWN. Through her tireless efforts and unwavering faith, EWTN rapidly grew to become a powerful and recognizable voice for Catholics across the globe, offering spiritual nourishment and catechetical instruction to an immense audience.

The Genesis of a Global Network

The story of EWTN's beginnings is as humble as it is inspiring, reflecting Mother Angelica's own spirit of perseverance and trust in divine providence. In 1981, with little more than a dream and immense resolve, Mother Angelica began broadcasting religious programs from a converted garage located in Birmingham, Alabama. This unconventional start was a testament to her belief that God could use even the simplest means to achieve great things. From this modest setup, a media empire began to blossom. Over the subsequent two decades, her pioneering spirit and relentless dedication led to the development of a comprehensive media network. This expansive endeavor went far beyond initial television broadcasts, encompassing radio, internet channels, and even print media, ensuring that the Catholic message could reach people through diverse platforms wherever they were.

A Life of Faith and Dedication

Mother Angelica's distinctive and often candid hosting style, coupled with her profound spiritual insights, made her a beloved figure to countless viewers. She personally hosted many of the popular shows on EWTN, captivating audiences with her directness and humor, until a significant stroke in 2001 necessitated her withdrawal from public life. Despite this profound health challenge, her commitment to her vocation remained steadfast. She continued to live in the cloistered monastery she founded, Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Hanceville, Alabama, dedicating her remaining years to prayer and spiritual support for the network she had brought into existence. Her life exemplified a unique blend of contemplative devotion and entrepreneurial zeal, demonstrating how deep faith could inspire groundbreaking evangelization efforts right up until her passing in 2016.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Mother Angelica?
Mother Angelica, born Rita Antoinette Rizzo, was an American Roman Catholic nun of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration. She was best known as a television personality and the founder of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) and WEWN radio network, which became a significant global voice for Catholics.
What is EWTN?
EWTN, the Eternal Word Television Network, is an international broadcast cable television network founded by Mother Angelica. It offers a wide range of Catholic-themed programming, including daily Mass, devotional programs, catechesis, news, and talk shows, reaching millions of viewers and listeners worldwide across various media platforms.
How did Mother Angelica start EWTN?
Mother Angelica began EWTN in 1981 by broadcasting religious programs from a converted garage in Birmingham, Alabama. This humble beginning, fueled by her faith and determination, eventually grew into a sprawling multimedia network.
When did Mother Angelica pass away?
Mother Angelica passed away on March 27, 2016, at the age of 92, after years of declining health following a stroke she suffered in 2001.
What religious order did Mother Angelica belong to?
Mother Angelica was a nun of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration, a cloistered contemplative order dedicated to prayer and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.