Catholic Radio is an Important part of New Evangelization

The Address of Bishop Coleman of Fall River on the Launch of Radio CorMariae

It is my pleasure and honor to address all of you who are listening to this live broadcast on Radio CorMariae, WPMW, 88.5 FM, originating from the new studio at Our Lady’s Chapel in New Bedford. Tonight we are celebrating the formal introduction of Catholic radio onto the airwaves of the New Bedford area and within the Diocese of Fall River.

Radio CorMariae, operated by the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate, is the fruit of a three-year cooperative effort to bring Catholic radio to the South Coast. I wish to express my gratitude to all who, by their prayers and sacrifices, have contributed to the wonderful fulfillment of our hopes.

Catholic radio is a powerful means of communication, and it forms an important part of the New Evangelization so earnestly desired by Venerable Pope John Paul II and by the present Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI. How many souls have been brought to a deeper knowledge and fervent practice of their faith thanks to Catholic radio? Without a doubt the seeds are being sown in our midst for a revitalization of our Catholic faith.

Let us thank God for the gift of the priesthood and for the tireless dedication and sacrifice of our priests. Let us be generous in our support for them with our prayers. Let us pray also that God, in his goodness and mercy, will inspire many more young men to respond to his call to enter into a life of priestly service. We would be remiss, however, if we failed to acknowledge the outstanding work of evangelization already being carried out in the Diocese of Fall River by so many dedicated lay persons.

Bringing Jesus and Mary to all hearts: this is the noble endeavor of Radio CorMariae. The very name of chosen for this radio station, “Cor Mariae”, Latin for “Heart of Mary,” expresses this desire to introduce souls into this masterpiece of God’s grace. It is Jesus and Mary who must help each one of us to discover and cherish the true value of our God-given life. They are the ones who will truly make us happy. Let us, therefore, welcome Jesus and Mary into our hearts, and let us permit them to transform our hearts and our lives. Let us implore them to make us their true apostles, so that we, in turn, can bring their love to all hearts. We pray that Radio CorMariae may remain faithful to its mission.

I ask that you to be generous in your prayers and support for Catholic radio and for all who dedicate themselves to this blessed apostolate. God will not fail to reward you for your generosity. May the Lord bless you and keep you.