2014 - The Miracle of Volunteers - ENG

2014

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA ASSOCIAtION

www.radiomaria.org

2014

ASSOCIAZIONE WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

THE MIRACLE OF VOLUNTEERS World Family of Radio Maria Association 2014 Front cover: Radio Maria, a voluntary organisation at the service of the Church.

Photo: Paolo Patruno and Archive of the WFRM

www.radiomaria.org

Editorial manager P. Livio Fanzaga Editors Stefano Chiappalone (stefano.chiappalone@radiomaria.org) Raffaele Galati (raffaele.galati@radiomaria.org) Daniele Trenca (daniele.trenca@radiomaria.org) Editorial Team Anna Gallego Joseph Nassar Bernhard Mitterrutzner P. Francisco Palacios Vittorio Viccardi Graphic Paolo Marchetti (www.paolomarchetti.net) Contributors to this issue P. Victor Atencio Batista, Stefano Chiappalone, Mihaly Csorba, P. Livio Fanzaga, Emanuele Ferrario, Raffaele Galati, Jean Paul Kayihura, Fr. Paul Kote, don Lazraj Prenke, Fr. Charles Lwanga Ssewava, Bernhard Mitterrutzner, P. Francisco Palacios, Claudio Re, Bernardin Rutwaza, Fr. Redemptus Benedictus Simamora, P. Javier Soteras, Paolo Taffuri, Vittorio Viccardi, Fr. Robert Young Photographs Paolo Patruno (www.paolopatrunophoto.org) Historical Archive of the World Family of Radio Maria Association Translations Jinglebell Communication srl - Milano Printed by Nastro&Nastro srl - Germignaga (VA)

Š 2014 All rights reserved Any form of reproduction (even partial) is forbidden

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What is a Radio Maria

Radio Maria - Identity and Mission FR. LIVIO FANZAGA

Interview with Emanuele Ferrario

Radio Maria: projects of hope throughout the world RAFFAELE GALATI

Integration and cohabitation among people

Radio Maria speaks to the people fr. CHARLES LWANGA SSEWAVA

Building the conscience of harmony

Radio Maria for peace in the world PAOLO TAFFURI

At the service of the Holy Father

Pope Francis, the good communicator fr. JAVIER SOTERAS

Special insert: RM in the world Two directors in the American continent

Freely you have received, freely give fr. FRANCISCO PALACIOS

The Asian expeirence

Radio Maria and interfaith dialogue fr. redemptus BENEDICTUS SIMAMORA

Interview with Fr. Paul Kote

Radio Maria and the testimony of faith VITTORIO VICCARDI

The European experience

The voice of Radio Maria in existential suburbs MIHALY CSORBA

Help Our Lady to help us

Radio Maria and solidarity STEFANO CHIAPPALONE

Our World Family

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— What is a Radio Maria station —

Radio Maria Identity and Mission An official summary illustrating what makes Radio Maria unique among the Catholic radio broadcasters of the world.

Father Livio Fanzaga describes its main content and traits.

fr. LIVIO FANZAGA WFRM Directors AdvisEr & RM Italy director

T

he aim of this second annual publication of the World Family of Radio Maria is to provide information about the events that have taken place and look at the further steps that lie ahead of us. Undoubtedly an important occurrence was the finalisation of the document specifying Radio Maria’s identity and its service in the Church.

25 years after its humble beginnings, Radio Maria, which has become a worldwide network that includes 65 national radio stations, felt that the

time was right to formalise an official document outlining the inalienable features that distinguish it and make of it a unique phenomenon in the world of Catholic radios. This need was expressed at the World Congress held in October 2012, attended by Radio Maria delegations from all the five continents. We realised that it was time to put down in black and white, in a jointly formulated, binding document, what constitutes the identity of Radio Maria, so that “The close union it becomes applicable not with the Pope only to the present day but to the future. Love for strengthens the bond the Virgin Mary, the meswith all broadcasters sage of conversion, prayer in the world„ and evangelisation, no advertising, the reliance

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria - Identity and Mission

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on Providence, love inspired by the sourc“Today a Catholic radio is and obedience to the es of the Gospel and the closest pulpit we have.

Church, especially represent a challenge Radio is where we can loyalty and support to to be faced with dethe Supreme Pontiff, termination and proclaim human values, cooperation between the power of faith. religious values, and above laity and priests, the In this age it is sigall proclaim Jesus Christ„ strength of volunnificant to state that teers, the consideratrusting in the Provition towards the poor, Pope Francis dence of God, we rethe suffering, the lonenounce the funds that ly, the elderly and those in prison, the involvederive from advertising and other sources that ment of listeners: everywhere in the world, are could influence our editorial choices. It is a the traits unique to Radio Maria. These are rare thing even in catholic circles. This choice the constructive elements of an identity that made by Radio Maria right from the outset no Radio Maria will relinquish and at the same has led to the extraordinary accomplishment time represent an ideal to be realized in time of having a network of associations spread with patience and perseverance. The indispenacross five continents. This came about by the sable traits of Radio Maria are undoubtedly compelling force of faith and love that

Father Livio Fanzaga in one of the Radio Maria Italia studios at Erba (Como)

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria - Identity and Mission

warms hearts and unleashes unimaginable creative forces. It is not to be ruled out that in the future, in difficult moments, someone might be tempted to look for financial support from outside rather than focus on the generosity of ordinary people who listen, pray and walk with us. This would be taking the easy road and lead quickly to ruin.

a means of evangelisation - the radio - which is missionary by nature. When we first embarked on our journey no one could foresee the great success of the radio in the landscape of global mass media. Its extraordinary effectiveness in the dynamics of evangelisation is beyond question. The radio spreads the Word. The radio is the carrier of the voice that from the mouth of the speaker reaches the ears of the listener: fides ex auditu - faith comes from hearing, as taught by Paul the Apostle (Rom 10:17). The proclamation of the Word of God is the greatest tool used by Jesus Christ and the Apostles: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature: whoever believes and is baptised will be saved” (Mark 16:15). Radio is a simple and effective tool for spreading the Gospel. Through the technological evolution it has become a means able to reach people everywhere. Radio is a tool which is missionary by nature. The voice reaches the heart and calls upon it. The centrality of the radio does not exclude the auxiliary means of social communication offered by technical innovation, on the contrary, it enhances them.

Radio Maria’s another defining trait that must be cultivated with great inner conviction is adherence to the Magisterium of the Church and, in particular, obedience, loyalty and support to the Holy Father. A constant reference point of the ecclesiastical service of Radio Maria must always be the See of Peter, His teachings and His pastoral initiatives.

The fact that the World Family has its headquarters in Rome facilitates the service and provides an extraordinary opportunity for all Radio Maria stations to strengthen their ties.

The close union with the Pope makes our ecclesiastical service credible and binds the unity of the various Radio Maria stations closer together. When pondering the future of Radio Maria and the essential traits of its identity, we should never forget that Our Lady has given us

However, we must be vigilant not to become tempted by tools that are seemingly more prestigious, but are less effective and we must keep in mind the words said by Pope Francis in Rio: “I would say that today a radio, a Catholic radio, is the closest pulpit we have. Radio is where we can proclaim human values, religious values, and above all proclaim Jesus Christ, the Lord; give the Lord the grace to find room among our things”. © 2014 - all right reserved

For many listeners the voice of Radio Maria is an essential daily appointment

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Once upon a time there was the radio…

up close

Once upon a time there was the radio…

How listening to the radio has changed over the years Claudio Re - WF network supervisor

Listening to radio programmes has changed dramatically over the years in remarkable leaps and bounds. The following factors made an inpact on listening to the radio: the first was the availability of radio receivers in cars; the second the advent of transportable receivers useable also with batteries and the third the arrival of ear-pieces (walkmans and mobile phones with in-built FM receivers).

These tools make use of the transmission of radio waves for reception and are therefore terrestrial. In the meantime technology has made available the option of receiving programmes via radio waves from space and distributed by satellites. Radio programmes that can also be transmitted via so-called “physical media”: discs, magnetic tapes, CDs and DVDs. In recent years technology has also made it possible to receive radio programmes from all over the world via the Internet (streaming services) and auxiliary radio links services such as wireless networks (wifi). When connected to the Internet, smartphones can receive radio programmes via streaming from the four corners of the world.

Large-capacity channels can also be distributed on networks via cable and fibre optics.

What was once a single channel that bound those who generated the radio programme to the listener has diversified into a myriad of different mediums.

There are various systems used to connect broadcasters and listeners, divided into analogical and digital technologies: Currently Radio Maria broadcasts are primarily distributed by the following means: - AM-FM: analogue transmission via terrestrial broadcasting facilities receivable through fixed and mobile radio receivers - DVB-T: digital terrestrial transmissions receivable via televisions and terrestrial antennas - DVB-S: digital terrestrial transmissions receivable via televisions and satellite antennas - DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) and HD RADIO (High Definition Radio): these are digital terrestrial technologies via radio signals, developed in

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Europe and the United States that in the medium-term aim to replace analogue transmissions on the FM and AM frequency bands, allowing for better quality signal reception and the ability to add more content such as text and images.

- INTERNET STREAMING: the website (www.radiomaria. org) has a special page where live broadcasts from all over the world can be listened to via the Internet, by means of PCs, smartphones or special radios equipped with Internet connection and WIFI integrating analogue FM digital and Internet radio in the same device, called Hybrid Radio.

- LISTENING VIA MOBILE PHONE: on smartphones, Radio Maria can be listened to while on the go either through the phone’s built-in software or through dedicated applications (apps) allowing listeners to follow programmes live as well as to download their favourite recorded programmes (podcasts).

The enormous potential of all these new communication media encourage us to continue along this path, to provide listeners with convenient and innovative multimedia services to supplement and enrich radio with new languages.

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— Interview with Emanuele Ferrario —

Radio Maria: projects of hope throughout the world The President of World Family of Radio Maria.

27 years at the service of Radio Maria: humility, faith and love – the key words for all believers. raffaele galati WFRM communication & web editorial officer

R

adio Maria represents a firmly established entity in the Church especially for many listeners around the world it has become an irreplaceable daily appointment. Twenty-seven years have passed since January 12, 1987, when the Association of Radio Maria Italy saw the light of day. After more than a quarter of a century the missionary project of this Catholic broadcaster is alive and well reaching millions of listeners across five continents. Past and future are intertwined in the memories and projects of Emanuele Ferrario,

President of the World Family of Radio Maria. We asked him how such an evolution of a broadcaster that was founded as a parish radio came about.

«All thanks to Providence and the generosity of listeners.

They are the heartbeat of Radio Maria. Their sacrifice and love enabled the seeds sown in Italy to sprout, bear fruit and spread everywhere.

Were this not a “project from Heaven” we would not be here talking about it».

Let us start... from the end. Not long ago, Radio Maria India - a symbol of courage and testimony in a continent where Christians are often segregated to

The President of each Radio Maria is a volunteer

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria: projects of hope throughout the world

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the outskirts of society and The African continent: land In Africa, every where religious coexistence of missions but also tradiyear, hundred is also rendered difficult by tionally with a problematic tragic events - was born. history. A population at war, of thousands of What is the role of Radio lands characterised by povpeople convert to Maria in these lands? erty. What is Radio Maria’s Christianity: Radio «They are representatives of the situation in the “continent Church’s mission of evangelisaof hope”?

Maria’s missionary tion of which our broadcasters «Africa is a magnificent continent commitment must are “unworthy servants in the from which I have learnt much. not be wanting vineyard of the Lord”. In Asia When I think of these places and Oceania we are present in the what comes to my mind is precisePhilippines, Papua New Guinea, ly that - hope: faith in the future, Indonesia and through a collaboration with the Salesian an ability to adapt to difficult situations, courage in the order in Macao (China). I am convinced that the evanface of painful times. I believe that Radio Maria shares gelisation of Asia represents one of the most important a number of similarities with the history of the African challenges facing the Church in the Third Millennium people. We are to be found in 18 countries but 2014 will along with the African continent. India has over thirty see an exceptional drive by the World Family to launch million Christians and the Philippines is a country prostations in Guinea in Conakry, in Madagascar, Mali foundly given to Marian devotion: often even in these and Nigeria. We will also accomplish what, until a few countries programmes of prayer and of the promulgation years ago, seemed but a dream: a national network in a of peace and coexistence are listened to by people of other truly embattled country - the Democratic Republic of faiths who recognise a social and humanitarian value in Congo, where the people have been subjected to enormous Radio Maria that overcomes all barriers and differences. suffering. And lastly, we are re-evaluating our projects in And this is also the case in Africa».

Kenya and Mozambique.

Radio Maria delegates and employees from around the world gathered at the Italian headquarters in Erba (Como)

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria: projects of hope throughout the world

Four news broadcasters will be launched in the near future in Africa

We still have a long way ahead... but our will and trust in the Holy Virgin is never wanting. She has been our daily guiding light».

model of hope and trust in Divine Providence: with prayer, the help of everyone and with the arrival of digital broadcasting we hope things will pick up in full speed. Finally I should like to point out the imminent launch of RM Ireland as web radio. For the Americas, on the other hand, we are present almost everywhere, and I should like to draw attention to the importance of radio for minorities with broadcasters that devote their entire programming to immigrant ethnic groups. In the United States we have a Radio Maria in Italian and one in Spanish, with offices and studios in major cities.

The intention on both continents is to spread the Good News into every home and every heart and entrusting as ever, all our hopes and human desires to Mary».

Lastly let us talk about Europe and America.

What are the most recent developments there and what about the future plans?

«The old continent is always an open challenge. In many countries, obtaining transmission frequencies is difficult and some even prevent the emergence of denominational broadcasters. Furthermore there are Christian countries where faith has lost ground. In Russia, we can point to an example of fraternal cooperation with the Orthodox church. In Ukraine we lend our support to the Catholic minority. In Eastern Europe the number of listeners is on the rise and shortly we will see the launch of RM Latvia. Many projects, both editorial and promotional, are being undertaken in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Spain and Switzerland. In France, due to their restrictive laws, we have not been granted frequencies and this has slowed down development, but it is a

If you had to choose three words to say to all the listeners of Radio Maria in the world what would they be?

«Humility, faith and love: humility is the source of all virtues, faith in our case means believing in the humanly impossible and love is Radio Maria’s reason for being». © 2014 - all right reserved

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Continental data 18 Radio Maria 76 transmitters 125.100.000 population coverage

AFRIca Integration and coexistence among people: Radio Maria talks to the people Building the conscience of harmony: Radio Maria for the peace in the world

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— Integration and coexistence among people —

Radio Maria talks to the people In Uganda’s multicultural society it is important to spread the Catholic faith in different languages. Fr. Charles Lwanga Ssewava, director of RM Uganda, tells us about his experience. fr. Charles Lwanga Ssewava RM Uganda Director

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adio Maria in Africa has expanded with time and now reaches many regions to spread its “Christian voice” by various means: prayer, spiritual growth and human development, all of which have played a vital role in the transformation of Christians.

broadcasting all programmes in English since only through the indigenous language can people’s hearts be reached. By broadcasting in the local idioms we can be certain that listeners properly understand the programmes, which enables them to pray, to ask questions and share their experiences peacefully and without fear.

Since Uganda is a country with several unique situations, it is vital to support true integration, otherwise many Christians would remain

Uganda is a multicultural country where over 40 languages are spoken. In this environment, Radio Maria has the responsibility of helping people who speak different languages in understanding the Catholic faith. Therefore we have five sub-stations in five parts of the country broadcasting programmes in the local language, while the rest of the schedule is broadcasted in English from Kampala, where the main studio is based. Although English is the country’s official language, we cannot limit ourselves to Catholics in Uganda represent less than half the national population

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“What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops „ MT 10,27

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria talks to the people

marginalised and not be able to learn about the goodness of our Mother Mary or of Christ.

This is why Radio Maria Uganda is present where the people live, close to the small Christian communities and parishes.

RM

Uganda

32 million 10 population coverage

transmitters

In this way, the local community benefits from our advice and encouragement working very closely with us as in, for example, the formation of “Circles of listeners”. In this context, schools cannot opt out from being involved in the local community: many have given their support to Radio Maria in its different activities. Every day we strive to give strength to the many communi-

“Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more” (ROM 5,20)

ties in the apostolate of Radio Maria in Africa.

We need to make people aware, especially those who do not know, that radio Maria is made up of volunteers largely supported by the laity and

Radio Maria helps families, who listen to the programmes of the various stations around the world, pray

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria talks to the people

the spirit of our broadcaster volunteers is unmatched. Additionally some of our advocates have fostered a sense of belonging to the family of Radio Maria knowing that one day the glory of Heaven promised by God awaits all those who do His will.

africa

“All the Christians who gave time and resources to RM Uganda returned to talk about the goodness of the radio and the graces they received„

Nowadays the media is the fastest means of evangelisation. We hope that the work of Radio Maria can quickly spread across the African continent. In particular I hope that in this coming year coverage of Radio Maria reaches every part of our country with the help of our Mother Mary, God and our benefactors. This will also strengthen the Catholic church. Uganda is spiritually comforted by the

gift of the Ugandan martyrs who made religious zeal known in this country. The Ugandan martyrs had been a cause of emulation for their love of the Catholic faith, Christ and Mary. This year our nation celebrates the 50th anniversary of their canonisation. Every year on our national holiday on June 3, we remember the Ugandan martyrs and Radio Maria provides a live broadcast of the important celebration that takes place in Kampala. Radio allows us to reach into the homes of many people who cannot attend in person so they can follow the celebrations in fellowship with their countrymen.

Radio Maria Uganda’s mission belongs to all Christians: we are here to save the sons of the Mother, which is why we must support this humble project with prayer and by donations so we can face the needs of each day.

Therefore with all my heart I would like to thank Radio Maria Uganda’s friends, listeners and benefactors for their contribution, their love and their many acts of love and solidarity.

Although poverty is one of the problems of the African people, they do not hold back their generosity towards the missions our Lady has entrusted to us

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© 2014 - all right reserved

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— Building the conscience of harmony —

Radio Maria for the peace in the world Interview with Bernardin Rutwaza and Jean Paul Kayihura about RM Rwanda: radio as the carrier of the values of peace in a context still marked by the genocide that took place in 1994.

PAOLO TAFFURI WFRM Africa coordinator

R

adio Maria Rwanda was born in 2004, exactly 10 years after the genocide in which, in the span of three months, almost a million people lost their lives. It was an event of unprecedented violence with repercussions throughout Africa and especially in many countries that hosted Rwandan refugees and displaced persons. The UN established a special international tribunal based in Arusha, Tanza-

nia. Books, documents, films and direct testimonies exposed the cruelty that man is capable of, even in our modern times. But Rwanda is also the country chosen by the Virgin Mary to make herself known in a unique and extraordinary way by appearing to three girls in a school in a village called Kibeho. Here the Mother of the Word, as she called herself, brought a message about the need for repentance and conversion – a message that went unheeded by most people.

We asked two Rwandans who are leading players at Radio Maria in Africa to talk to us about Radio Maria’s role in their country and within the whole continent in spreading the message of peace.

We asked Bernardin Rutwaza, president of Radio Maria Rwanda and member of the committee that in Africa focuses on training for the staff of Radio Maria: what is the importance taken on by an organisation such as Radio Maria in Rwanda, also with regard to the

Radio Maria broadcasts from the shrine of Kibeho (Rwanda), the only one in Africa recognised by the Holy See for the Marian apparitions in 1981

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA radio maria for the peace in the world

apparition of Our Lady at Kibeho in the 80s?

«The Madonna appeared in Kibeho for the first time on the 28th of November 1981 and revealed herself to be the Mother of the Word. The apparitions at Kibeho were officially recognised by the Church on the 29th of June 2001. Radio Maria Rwanda began broadcasting on August 15, 2004, on the feast of the Assumption of Mary. For this reason Rwandans ascribe great importance to Radio Maria and consider it a gift from heaven, a gift that Mary gave to Rwandans following Her apparitions to continue to spread her message».

After the terrible civil war in 1994 that scarred many Rwandans what can radio Maria offer on a daily basis to these people still marked by this massacre?

«In one of the apparitions at Kibeho, Our Lady had announced the massacre that would occur in Rwanda therefore she asked that people’s hearts be converted. After the war and the genocide in 1994 we regretted not

AFRIca

having obeyed the words of Our Lady. Radio Maria Rwanda make sure that Kibeho is always alive in the memories of Rwandans. We set up a mobile studio there and we regularly broadcast programmes to spread the messages of our Lady of Kibeho from there. Every Saturday listeners join us at 4.30 pm to say the rosary that is broadcast live. Then in collaboration with the sanctuary itself, we have live broadcasts of all the important prayer events that are carried out in the shrine that is so important to Africa. We also have weekly educational programming centred around justice and peace to help heal those souls who were injured in the war and the genocide in 1994».

Jean Paul Kayihura was president of Radio Maria Rwanda, later he was asked by the World Family of Radio Maria to become the WF Representative in Africa. He therefore has extensive knowledge of the real situation in many countries throughout the continent.

Radio Maria devotes ample airtime to education about peace in the African countries

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA radio maria for the peace in the world

“The pursuit of peace is long and requires patience and perseverance!

Let us go forward with prayer!” Pope Francis

Often in Africa clashes arise because of religious beliefs. What are Radio Maria’s projects for peace?

«Personally I don’t believe that those who decide to make war, to kill their fellow countrymen and neighbouring populations are driven by religious ideals. What some armed groups do is to manipulate religion to find fanatics who often do not know the real reasons for the war: to conquer the political and economic power of a nation. Against this backdrop Radio Maria in Africa is called to educate people about respect for life, peace, the benefits of social harmony, interfaith dialogue and the equitable distribution of political power and wealth to reduce inequalities that are so often a source of violence».

Pope Francis has often said “No more war!”.

In a land as diverse and multicultural as the African continent how are the affairs of the Pope, his appeals and his messages followed?

«Pope Francis is a man who takes the suffering of the people to heart. His words: “No more war!” strike a strong chord with the African people, since the popu-

lation frequently suffers from armed conflicts that are caused by the Africans themselves. Clashes at times imposed by powerful countries that fight each other, especially in wealthy areas of the continent, rich in oil or diamonds. “No more war!” expresses a strong desire felt by the majority of the refugees, the people who have survived these events and also those who have remained scarred by the violence. The call of the Pope Francis is a ray of hope for many African men and women who died crying, walking many miles on the roads of exile, crossing oceans and seas to get away from dire situations. Cries that seem not to reach those who are in power. Being an excellent communicator the new Pope has repeatedly shown himself to be close to the African people on matters regarding peace. He knows how to make himself easily understood and his homilies are often centred around a few, key ideas that make understanding his message easier. The Radio Maria stations already present in more than 15 African countries follow the messages of the Holy Father with particular attention and broadcast them to millions of listeners.

For example when, on September 7th, Pope Francis invited the whole world to pray for peace in Syria, all Radio Maria stations passed on this message to their listeners as they partecipated in his prayer and the one organised by the cardinals and bishops in Africa. The fatherly figure that Pope Francis represents is a model for many Africans, regardless of the culture, religion or the geographical region to which they belong».

Radio Maria’s contribution to promoting world peace goes beyond the borders of Rwanda. Radio Maria in Africa has multiplied the times dedicated to prayer both nationally and by linking up with different radio stations.

Following the invitation of the Mother of the Word, millions of African listeners pray together for peace each month live. This is also a gift from the Lord. © 2014 - all right reserved

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Continental data 23 Radio Maria 436 transmitters 155.900.000 population coverage

AMeRIca At the service of the Holy Father: Pope Francis, the good communicator Two directors in the American continent: Freely you have received, freely give

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— At the service of the Holy Father —

Pope Francis, the good communicator Simplicity, sobriety and rigor. This is the communication strategy of the new Pope who is very familiar with Radio Maria in Argentina. fr. Javier Soteras RM Argentina Director

A

s director of Radio Maria Argentina I had the opportunity of being received several times

by Pope Francis in Buenos Aires, when he was Archbishop of the “city of tango”. His closeness, his interest and his ability to discern things allowed us to move forward, seated, as it were, on the shoulders of a giant, which afforded us a new perspective in the midst of difficulties.

Undoubtedly – and God willing it will be soon - his interest in our work will take on universal dimensions when, through the Petrine Ministry, he will have a broader and fuller picture of our missionary commitment throughout the world.

In the meantime, Pope Francis shows us a path of the Annunciation through communications.

The Church’s purpose is to com-

municate the Good News. Language is the tool of communication. And the matter is an important one. This is the direction our daily work in the newsroom takes. Since being elected Bishop of Rome on March 13th, Pope Francis has started a world-wide revolution that is growing daily thanks to his simple and direct style of speaking and dealing with everyday issues.

For his Magisterium he makes use of the pulpit in the church at his residence at Santa Marta, which he chose as his lodgings (an act that speaks for itself). From here, every morning, commenting on the word of God, he makes suggestive reflections that are simple but real and current.

His use of Twitter resounds throughout newsrooms.

Fr. Javier Soteras in the Radio Maria Argentina offices at Cordoba

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA UNA TAVOLA ROTONDA PER RIFLETTERE ASSIEME

“If we return to the Lord, the Lord never tires of forgiving: never”

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AMERICA

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Pope Francis, the good communicator

Nobody can say they on”, and his exhorting “Annuntio vobis gaudium do not understand what the shepherds of the magnum. Habemus Papam. the Pope says. Let us Church (bishops and Eminentissimum ac look at some interesting priests) to “smell like Reverendissimum Dominum, examples. The image sheep”, to tell us we Dominum Georgium Marium of a “God-spray”, used should walk with the Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae

by Pope Francis to warn people. Or again his Cardinalem Bergoglio against the idea of an call to the nuns to have impersonal God “who is a heart like a “mother” qui sibi nomen imposuit found everywhere, but and not a “spinster” Franciscum” you do not know what it and lastly his exhortaRome, St. Peter’s Square is”. The formula of the tion at the presentation March 13, 2013 “Baby-sitter or nanny of some ambassadors church”, to stigmatise about the economic cria Church that only “cradles a child so it will sis: “Money must serve, not rule”. Pope Fransleep”, without allowing room for adult faith. cis’s style is that of Jesus, able to explain the The image of “satellite Christians”, to define great truths of faith in simple terms that evethose Christians that are guided by a “common ryone can understand. He often uses personal place” and “worldly prudence”, rather than by parables and anecdotes, as when he explained God. Defining as “sitting-room Christians” that his understanding of the fundamental those who “do not have the strength to carry truths about faith as a child came about thanks to his grandmother one Easter. He uses strong words and images all accompanied by acts that make his message abundantly clear to show not only horizons but the roads that should be taken, pointing out not only where to go but how to get there.

He has placed himself on the same level as the people: he is close to them.

He talks with feelings that come from deep in his soul, he puts his heart into what he says. WhatPope Francis’s teachings give direction and guide the evangelising mission of Radio Maria

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Pope Francis, the good communicator

ever it is, whether it is liked or not, it comes from within.

AMerica

RM

Argentina Pope Francis transmits the truth and people who have lost faith by countless lies immediately understand the change: he can be trusted, he does not lie, he is transparent, he does and lives what he preaches, there is no deception or hypocrisy in him.

The communication revolution Francis has embarked on lies in the words of the Pope and in his body language: he hugs enthusiastically, his smile

30,7 million population coverage

transmitters

is genuine, he claps and gives the thumbs up as a sign of joy. He looks people in the eye and when he is on his ‘Pope-mobile’ he can spot friends and acquaintances among the crowds. He gives blessings with simplicity not just throwing it out there, he does not impose it. He shares it. He offers it.

He kisses children affectionately as a grandfather would and the disabled as if he was a father.

Pope Francis receiving the WF 2013 yearbook from Fr. Francisco Palacios during the final mass on the World Marian day at St. Peter’s Square (October 13th, 2013)

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© 2014 - all right reserved

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA up close

Radio Maria Mexico

Prayer: a source of strength for others This is the name of Radio Maria Mexico’s weekly campaign for the Eucharistic celebrations of the needs of all the Radio Maria stations in the world.

A single faithful person praying with fervour in his bedroom can, through his union with Christ, contribute to the salvation of thousands of people.

The commitment of Radio Maria Mexico is one, because the Church is one. Communion with radio stations in the world is our daily charisma, our Communion with Christ, so that He can work in us to “will and to act in order to fulfil his good

purpose” (Phil. 2:13). The prayer of the Saint, of the prophet, the apostle alone are not enough: they necessarily need those of others so as to be filled by divine power and so grace can inspire new energy.

Prayer is the channel through which man’s relation with his brothers travels, capable of leading from death to life, from darkness to light. Each week we pray to Mary of Guadalupe for Radio Maria Mexico, for the needs of every Radio Maria throughout the world and to increase the numbers of supporters of the Worldwide Family.

22

info.bdi@radiomaria.org

info.bur@radiomaria.org

radiomaria.cameroun@yahoo.fr

info.cmr@radiomaria.org

info.cod@radiomaria.org

A

KEYS

director

1

4

1

www.radiomariacentrafrique.org

www.radiomaria.cd

transmitters

address

76

20.000.000

+243 974556876

Abbé Roger Wawa

1.000.000

+236 70015122

Abbé Étienne Kotto Wawe CM

2.500.000

+237 22311599

Abbé Albert Essomba

1.000.000

+237 33464522

Abbé Gabriel Anda

5.000.000

+257 22239880

Abbé Désiré Bireha

800.000

+226 40700010

Abbé Laurent Nadembega

125.100.000

D A T A

telephone

population coverage

claude_muhindo@yahoo.fr

+243 994448274

Abbé Jean-Claude Muhindo Matabaro

4

Avenue OUA, n°4012, Kitambo/Kinshasa

2

BP 1728 Bangui - Bimbo - Rep. Centrafrique

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA CENTRAFRIQUE

www.radiomaria.cm

BP 1963 Yaoundé - Cameroun

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA CAMEROUN

www.radiomaria.cm

1

BP 297 Edea - Cameroun

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA CAMEROUN

www.radiomaria.bi

BP 2106 - Bujumbura - Burundi

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA BURUNDI

www.radiomariaburkinafaso.org

BP 51 Koupela - Burkina Faso

18

TH E

WORLD

info.gab@radiomaria.org

info.mlw@radiomaria.org

info.ken@radiomaria.org

info.cvi@radiomaria.org

A

RWANDA

A

1

1

1

5

ASSOCIACAO RADIO MARIA MOCAMBIQUE

www.radiomaria.mw

9

P.O. Box 408 Mangochi - Malawi

ASSOCIATION OF RADIO MARIA MALAWI

www.radiomaria.co.ke

734 - 10200 Murang'a - Kenya

ASSOCIATION OF RADIO MARIA KENYA

www.radiomaria.ci

BP 1555 Yamoussoukro - Côte d’Ivoire

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA CÔTE D’IVOIRE

www.radiomariagabon.org

BP 1359 Oyem - Gabon

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA GABON

under construction

ASSOCIATION MARIA CONGO

www.radiomaria.org.mz

6

RADIO MARIA RWANDA

www.radiomaria.cg

4

website

info.rwa@radiomaria.org

www.radiomaria.rw

4

Muhanga District, South Province, P.O. Box. 52 Muhanga

info.rcb@radiomaria.org

Boulevard 13 aout, N° 233, Quartier de la République, Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Pierre Apôtre BP 659, Pointe Noire

info.moz@radiomaria.org

Av. Paolo Samuel Khankomba, Bairro da Malhangalene, n° 1105 - Maputo

REP. OF CONGO (Brazzaville)

A

MOZAMBIQUE

A

MALAWI

A

KENYA

A

ASSOCIACION RADIO MARIA GUINEA EQUATORIALE

+243 997886110

Abbé Augustin Kalamb

8.000.000

+250 784870045

Abbé Celse Niyitegeka

2.000.000

+242 016652018

Abbé Chris Goma

5.500.000

+258 21752124

on the process

10.000.000

+265 1599627

Mons. Joseph Kimu

2.000.000

+254 734796187

Fr. Martin Wanyoike Mburu

500.000

+225 30644155

Abbé Hervé Djezou Konan

220.000

+241 07348425

Fr. Godeffroy Nkoulou Beyem

280.000

+240 222277258

P. Laureano Ekua Obama

augustinkalamba@gmail.com

Apdo.106, Plaza de la Independencia S/N Malabo - Bioko Norte

info.gnq@radiomaria.org

IVORY COAST

A

GABON

A

2 0 1 4

B.P. 70 Kananga - Rep. Démocratique du Congo

EQUATORIAL GUINEA

A

DEM. REP. OF CONGO (Kananga)

www.radiomaria.org

125.100.000 155.900.000 6.300.000 198.420.000

OF

C O N T I N E N T A L

12 Avenue Mbaki, Quartier Ndendere, Commune d’Ibanda, Ville de Bukavu

DEM. REP. OF CONGO (Bukavu)

A

C C I P

485.720.000 18 76 23 436 4 14 23 1.181

D A T A

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA BURKINA

I I N O

1.707 A A A E

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA REPUBLIQUE DÉMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO

info.caf@radiomaria.org

DEM. REP. OF CONGO (Kinshasa)

A

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

A

CAMEROON (Yaoundè)

A

CAMEROON (Edéa)

A

BURUNDI

A

BURKINA FASO

AFRICA

A A M A S I A / O C E

68 F R E R E A U R

W O R L D

R AD IOS

W O R L D FA M I L Y O F R A D I O M A R I A

MARAFIKI WA RADIO MARIA

info.zam@radiomaria.org

info.uga@radiomaria.org

info.tog@radiomaria.org

info.tan@radiomaria.org

A

KEYS

CANADA

A

BRAZIL

A

4

5

10

ASOCIACIÓN CIVIL RADIO MARÍA ARGENTINA

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARIA BOLIVIA

www.radiomaria.org.ar

232

ASSOCIAÇÃO RADIO MARIA DO BRASIL - ARMB

www.radiomaria.org.bo

16

HOLY MOTHER WORLD NETWORKS (HMWN) RADIO MARIA

www.radiomaria.net.br

director

info@hmwn.net transmitters

address

www.hmwn.net telephone

P.O. BOX 58141, 3089 Dufferin Street, Toronto, Ontario M6A3C8

info.bra@radiomaria.org

QE 13, Conjunto C, Casa 2 - Guara II - Brasília DF

info.bol@radiomaria.org

Calle Lanza 844 entre La Paz Y Oruro (Cochabamba)

info.arg@radiomaria.org

7.300.000

+591 44526100

P. Eloy Rios Almendras

30.700.000

+54 3514200700

P. Javier Soteras

155.900.000

population coverage

web radio

+1 4162450200

Fr. Min Kyu Park

web radio

+55 6130212545

P. Juan Carlos Cortés Leal

436

D A T A

C O N T I N E N T A L

23

1.300.000

+260 216221154

Fr. Bernard Kaluba Zulu

32.000.000

+256 414220535

Fr. Charles Lwanga Ssewava

4.000.000

2

www.radiomaria.org.zm

P.O. Box 510307

ASSOCIATION OF RADIO MARIA ZAMBIA

www.radiomaria.ug

P. O. Box 7488 Kampala - Uganda

RADIO MARIA UGANDA

www.radiomaria.tg

+228 22263500

Abbé Gerson Koffi Gale

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA TOGO N°155 de la Rue 158 Hedzranawoe - Lomè

23.000.000

+255 222773837

Fr. John Maendeleo

6.000.000

+232 78850287

Fr. Aloysious Kamara

11

www.radiomaria.co.tz

Avenida Vélez Sarfield 51 – Ciudad de Córdoba (Provincia de Córdoba) - C.P.A. X5000JJA

BOLIVIA

A

ARGENTINA

www.radiomaria.sl

Plot 125, Mikocheni Industrial Area, P.O. Box 34573 - Dar es Salaam

info.sle@radiomaria.org

17 Bath Street, Brookfields - Freetown

ASSOCIATION OF RADIO MARIA SIERRA LEONE

AMERICA

A

ZAMBIA

A

UGANDA

A

TOGO

A

TANZANIA

A

SIERRA LEONE

info.chi@radiomaria.org

info.col@radiomaria.org

info@radiomaria.org.sv

A

FUNDACIÓN RADIO MARIA

www.radiomariadominicana.org

1

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARÍA

www.radiomariaecuador.org

15

RADIO MARÍA ASOCIACIÓN CIVIL

www.radiomaria.org.gt

9

10a. Calle 6-86 zona 2, Ciudad de Guatemala

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARÍA

www.radiomaria.org.sv

8

ASOCIACION RADIO MARIA

www.radiomariamexico.com

5

website

info.nic@radiomaria.org

www.radiomaria.org.ni

4

Residencial Bolonia de la Iglesia S.Francisco 150 mts. Al sureste

info.mex@radiomaria.org

San Juan Bosco N°3623, Fracc. Jardínes de San Ignacio C. P. 45040, Zapopán, Jalisco

info.gua@radiomaria.org

NICARAGUA

A

5

Km. 2 1/2, Inicio Carretera a Planes de Renderos, Colonia Alfa, Pje. Califormia, San Salvador, C.A.

MEXICO

A

www.radiomaria.cr

Ave. 27 De Febrero Esq. Abraham Lincoln 2do Piso - Santo Domingo

info.ecu@radiomaria.org

GUATEMALA

A

44

Baquerizo Moreno E9-116 y Leonidas Plaza (sector del Hospital Baca Ortiz) - Quito

EL SALVADOR

A

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARÍA

www.radiomariacol.org

RADIO MARIA INC.

info.crc@radiomaria.org

info.dom@radiomaria.org

ECUADOR

A

23

Carrera 21A # 151-23 Bogotà

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARÍA

www.radiomaria.cl

+1 4162457117

Mons. John Iverinci

4.000.000

+505 22689034

P. José Antonio Espinoza González

10.000.000

+52 013335636003

P. Jorge Antonio Luna Casillas

10.000.000

+502 22453810

P. Manuel Abac

5.000.000

+503 21321212

P. Simeón Leonidas Reyes

11.000.000

+593 22564401

P. Marco Bayas CM

3.000.000

+1 8094122370

P. Juan Fabiàn Reyes

4.000.000

+506 40001007

P. Emilio Garreaud

18.000.000

+57 17460067

P. German Dario Acosta

15.000.000

+56 22091483

P. Carlos Yrarrázaval Errazuriz

subcarrier radio (Toronto e Montreal)

Monseñor Miller 74 Providencia, Santiago Chile

CORPORACION RADIO MARIA

www.radiomariacanada.org

Guadalupe de Goicoechea, San José, 75 metros al sur de la Escuela Pilar Jiménez 10801

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

A

COSTA RICA

A

RADIO MARIA CANADA

P.O. BOX 58141, 3089 Dufferin Street, Toronto, Ontario M6A3C8 info@radiomariacanada.org

COLOMBIA

A

CHILE

A

CANADA (Italian speaking)

info.pan@radiomaria.org

info.eng@radiomaria.us

info.nyi@radiomaria.us

info.nys@radiomaria.us

info.ils@radiomaria.us

A

KEYS

HERMANOS DE RADIO MARIA INC.

www.radiomaria.us

1255 N. Boble Avenue. 4th Piso - Chicago IL

HERMANOS DE RADIO MARIA INC.

www.radiomaria.us

21 Oliver Street, New York, NY 10038

AMIGOS DE RADIO MARÍA EAST COAST

www.radiomaria.us

70-05 Fresh Pond Rd., Ridgewood, NY 11385

FRIENDS OF RADIO MARIA INC.

www.radiomaria.us

11

director

info.ven@radiomaria.org transmitters

address

www.radiomaria.org.ve

telephone

1

Urbaniz. Guaipuro, 3a calle Transv. Norte Quinta Mirla, Parroquia El Recreo, Munic. Libertador - Caracas 1050

ASOCIACIÓN CIVIL RADIO MARIA

www.radiomaria.us

7125 W. Tidwell Road, suite L-100 Houston 77092, Texas

info.txs@radiomaria.us

VENEZUELA

A

USA (Spanish speaking - Houston)

A

USA (Spanish speaking - Chicago)

A

USA (Spanish speaking - NY)

A

RADIO MARIA, INC.

www.radiomaria.org.uy

7

18 de Julio 1220 piso 4, Montevideo, CP 11100

ASOCIACION CIVIL RARIO MARIA

www.radiomariaperu.org

46

Av. Gral. Garzón # 2031, Lima 11

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARÍA

www.radiomaria.org.py

4

Gra. Caballero 183 c/ Cerro Corá, San Lorenzo

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARÍA PARAGUAY

www.radiomaria.org.pa

5

Urbanización Los Angeles, Casa D-5

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARIA

601 Washington St. - Alexandria, Louisiana 71301

info.ury@radiomaria.org

info.per@radiomaria.org

info.par@radiomaria.org

USA (Italian speaking - NY)

A

USA

A

URUGUAY

A

PERU

A

PARAGUAY

A

PANAMA

population coverage

3.500.000

+58 2125773870

Mons. Tulio Ramirez

subcarrier radio (Houston)

+1 7139390470

P. Abelardo Cobos

subcarrier radio (New York)

+1 7734865500

P. Hernan Moran

subcarrier radio (New York)

+1 8667926074

P. Lázaro Núñez Rentería FMAP

subcarrier radio (New York)

+1 7184170550

Fr. Walter Tonelotto CS

10.000.000

+1 3185616145, +1 2122338040

Fr. Robert Young OFM

1.500.000

+598 29030094

P. Fabian Alberto Rovere

16.000.000

+51 17001600

Mons. José Ignacio Alemany Grau

3.500.000

+595 021576600

P. Vicente Segovia

3.400.000

+507 2606762

P. Victor Atencio Batista

info.png@radiomaria.org

info.phi@radiomaria.org

Fouad Chehab Street - Jounieh

A

AUSTRIA

A

ALBANIA

A

ARMENIA

1

9

4

SHOQATA RADIO MARIA

www.radiomariam.am

83 Ghorghanyan Str. Gyumri

RADIO MARIAM CULTURAL FUNDATION

23

website

kontakt@radiomaria.at

info.alb@radiomaria.org

8

www.radiomaria.at

7

1120 Wien, Pottendorferstr. 21

RADIO MARIA ÖSTERREICH - DER SENDER MIT SENDUNG

www.radiomaria.al

DATA

6.300.000

1.181

1.000.000

+43 17107072

Pfr. Andreas Schätzle

2.400.000

+35 542346346

don Lazraj Prenke

web radio

+374 55777012

Mons. Anton Totonjian

198.420.000

D A TA

+961 9918090

Fr. Fadi Tabet OLM

1.300.000

+63 459821792

Fr. Raymund Cruz

1.000.000

+675 3259178

Fr. Paul Kote

4.000.000

+62 614151016

Fr. Redemptus Benedictus Simamora OFM Cap.

web radio

+91 9995169584

Fr. Raphael Koottumghal Antony

14

C O N T I N E N TA L

mahaba@radiocharity.org

RADIO VOICE OF CHARITY

www.radiomaria.ph

Sunrise Subd., Maliwalo, Tarlac City, 2300

RADIO MARIA FOUNDATION INCORPORATED

www.radiomariapng.org

RR. Papa Gjon Pali II Nr. 4 Fushe Kercik, Barru Tirane

info@radiomariam.am

EUROPE

A

LEBANON (twinning)

A

PHILIPPINES

A

RADIO MARIA PNG INCORPORATED

www.radiomaria.co.id

P.O. Box 8719, Boroko. N.C.D. – Papua New Guinea

info.ina@radiomaria.org

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

A

ASSOCIATION RADIO MARIA

www.radiomaria.org.in

Animation Centre, Aroor, Kerala, Pin - 688534

RADIO MARIA ASSOCIATION

4

C O N T I N E N TA L

Katolik Center Lantai V Jl. Mataram No 21 Medan Sumut

info.ind@radiomaria.org

INDONESIA

A

INDIA

ASIA/OCEANIA

info@radiomaria.be

info@mariaradio.hu

info@horeb.org

info.ita@radiomaria.org

A

KEYS

info.lit@radiomaria.org

director

3 / DAB+

15

PUBLIC INSTITUTION RADIO MARIA

www.radiomariakosove.org

1

Zona Hajvali, Prishtina

SHOQATA RADIO MARIA KOSOVE

www.radiomaria.bz.it

Bahnhofstraße 28, CAP 39042 - Brixen

RADIO MARIA SÜDTIROL

transmitters

address

www.marijosradijas.lt

telephone

19

population coverage

2.600.000

+370 410401

Fr. Gintaras Blužas

150.000

+381 38712139

don Rok Gjonslaj

450.000

+39 0472830094

Pfr. Christoph Haider

55.000.000

www.radiomaria.it

860

p. Livio Fanzaga SP

3.500.000

+39 031610600

23

+36 13730701

don Dúl Géza

43.800.000

Via Milano 12, Cap 22036 - Erba (Como)

ASSOCIAZIONE RADIO MARIA

www.mariaradio.hu

1133 Budapest, Gogol Út 28

MÁRIA RÁDIÓ KÖZHASZNÚ EGYESÜLET

www.horeb.org

+49 83239675110

Pfr. Richard Kocher

INTERNATIONALE CHRISTLICHE RUNDFUNKGEMEINSCHAFT (ICR) E.V. Dorf 6; D-87538 Balderschwang

1.100.000

+33 494203088

1

www.radiomaria.fr

M. Daukšos 21/ V. Sladkevičiaus 1, Lt-44282 Kaunas

info.rks@radiomaria.org

info.tir@radiomaria.org

LITHUANIA

A

KOSOVO

A

RADIO MARIA FRANCE

on the process

1.500.000

4

www.radiomarija.hr

+385 12327000

p. Stjepan Fridl SJ

700.000

+387 33263055

Jordanovac 110, 10000 Zagreb

UDRUGA RADIO MARIJA

www.radiomarija.ba

2

Kranceviceva 36, 71000 Sarajevo

UDRUGA “ RADIO MARIJA” U BOSNI I HERCEGOVINI p. Mato Anić

3.000.000

15

www.radiomaria.be

+32 16414747

don Karlo Tyberghien

Sint Reneldisplein 23 - 3001 Leuven

RADIO MARIA VZW

RM France 230 Avenue Marc Delage 83130 - La Garde

info@radiomaria.fr

ITALY (German speaking)

A

ITALY

A

HUNGARY

A

GERMANY

A

FRANCE

A

info@radiomarija.hr

urednik.radiomarijabih@gmail.com

CROATIA

A

BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA

A

BELGIUM

info.rom@radiomaria.org

A

UKRAINE

A

website

195

DAB+

15.000.000

7 www.radiomaria.org.ua

+38 0445722929

Fr. Aleksej Samsonov

THE INTERNATIONAL CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION RADIO MARIA Sribnokilska Str. 8, Ap. 394, Kyiv, 02095

16.500.000

+31 736872000

Fr. Elias Leyds

4.500.000

+41 435012233

Pfr. Thomas Rellstab

35.000.000

+34 902500518

1 / DAB+ www.radiomaria.nl

Postbus 5045, 5201 GA 'S-Hertogenbosch

VERENIGING RADIO MARIA NEDERLAND

www.radiomaria.ch

Soodring 3, CH-8134 Adliswil

VEREIN RADIO MARIA DEUTSCHSCHWEIZ

www.radiomaria.es

1.500.000

+421 357789416

don Lorant Lepes

1.700.000

+381 214790529

don Istvàn Palatinos

5.300.000

+7 8124381192

P. Luis Fernando de Prada

uses the RM Hungary broadcasting system

Paseo de los Lanceros 2, 1° planta - 28024 Madrid

info@radiomaria.org.ua

info@radiomaria.nl

5

Jókaiho č. 6, 945 01 Komárno

ASOCIACIÓN RADIO MARÍA

www.mariaradio.sk

info@radiomaria.ch

THE NETHERLANDS

A

SWITZERLAND

A

www.radiomarija.rs

RÁDIO MÁRIA SLOVAKIA, OBőIANSKE ZDRUŽENIE

radiomaria@radiomaria.es

info.svk@radiomaria.org

SPAIN

A

2

Koste Abraševića 16, 21000 Novi Sad

UDRUŽENJE MARIJA

www.radiomaria.ru

P.O. Box 732, Saint-Petersburg 190068

Fr. Yuri Dorogin OFM

+40 259420777

DEVELOPMENT FUND OF NON-COMMERCIAL RADIO BROADC. «RADIO MARIA»

www.mariaradio.ro

Oradea, 410423, str. Barsei, nr. 18, JUD.BIHOR

don Szőcs Csaba

900.000

2.400.000

info.scg@radiomaria.org

pr@radiomaria.ru

6

MARIA RADIO ERDELY EGYESULET

www.radiomaria.ro

+40 359191291

don Dorel Popovici

420.000

+356 21453105

p. Charles Fenech OP

5

info.trs@radiomaria.org

SLOVAKIA (Hungarian speaking)

A

SERBIA

A

RUSSIA

A

ROMANIA (Hungarian speaking)

A

ASOCIATIA RADIO MARIA ROMANIA

www.radjumarija.org

2

Kunvent Patrijiet Dumnikani, Rabat RBT 2521

ASSOCJAZZJONI RADJU MARIJA MALTA

ORADEA, STR. SPARTACUS, NR. 33, 410466 JUD.BIHOR

info.mal@radiomaria.org

ROMANIA

A

MALTA

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— Two directors in the American continent —

Freely you have received, freely give An interview with Father Robert Young, director of Radio Maria in America and Father Victor Atencio Battista, director of Radio Maria Panama. Two priests at the service of our Lady. fr. FRANCISCO PALACIOS WFRM EDITORIAL ACTIVITY MANAGER

F

ather Robert Young and Father Victor Atencio Battista are fulltime directors at Radio Maria.

They responded with great enthusiasm to the call of the Madonna to be shepherds at Her radio station. Let’s begin with our English friend and collaborator: Father Robert what is your openion on this important means of communication that our Lady has placed in our hands?

«Radio Maria’s international network remains a great unknown to many notwithstanding its vast reach.

How can it be that many people in the Catholic church still do not know of one of the greatest radios in the world? It is a “universal tool for new evangelisation”. One of the reasons undoubtedly is the concealment of its

mistress and muse, Mary Queen of Peace. The humble and self-effacing spirit of the Blessed Mother of God is at the centre of everything that bears Her holy name. She imprints with Her heart everything that She touches and inspires. It is as if the paradox of the Gospel has come to life: the strongest “Voice” of the “Word” in the world today is at the same time a small mustard seed and hidden yeast that permeates and enriches every corner of the Earth».

The directors of Radio Maria are diocesan priests or members of different religious orders with a profound devotion to Mary

27

You speak about the “paradox between the strong Voice and a mustard seed”. How can one reconcile the fact of being a mass media with a desire to keep a humble profile?

«Radio Maria welcomes everyone in a Worldwide Family freely offering countries that which we have freely received from God.

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Freely you have received, freely give

As a part of the mystic Body of Christ, Radio Maria is a voice for the Word reaching to the farthest corners of the globe. The objective is to allow His Word to be heard in those places where it is already known, but also where it is not. We reach into homes, the workplace, in cars, in prisons, in schools, in rest homes, everywhere someone is ready and waiting to listen. We are an organisation of volunteers supported by humble people who pray, work and contribute to making all this possible. Our only objective is to serve the Kingdom of God, proclaiming the Word through our lives and our words, following the example of the Servant of the Lord».

United in diversity. What other challenge do you think could be considered?

«It must be understood that Radio Maria is for everyone, not just adults. There will be a great challenge this year for all the Radio Maria networks in the world: to bring Christ’s Good News and the presence of His Holy Mother to the young. We were blessed for having broadcasted the events of the World Youth Day from Rio de Janeiro. We witnessed along with the rest of the world the “hunger” that the young have for the word of God and His peace.

It is because we want to reach out to them and nourish them with the Bread of Life. Certainly it is not easy to appeal to the young, who have so many things to attract and distract them. And so to the young of the world we would like to say: “come and join our large family at Radio Maria. Learn to grow in the faith with us”. The invitation is the same for all the sons of God: “Come, receive the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world” (Matt.

25:34)».

What is one of the new challenges facing Radio Maria?

«As part of the World Family we are committed to spreading a spirit of solidarity and unity among our broadcasters. Which poses a great challenge because we have partners and newsrooms throughout the world and we are the bearers of the Spirit of the Risen “We have collaborators and newsrooms Lord who “is above all, and To conclude, what is your through all, and in you all” message for our readers throughout (Eph 4.6.). The different linand listeners? the world and guistic groups work together to «I want to express my sincere we are carriers share programming and activigratitude to all those who work ties for growth and promotion. throughout the world in making of the Spirit Last year we even launched a this mission which Our Lady of our Risen Lord” worldwide Mariathon to supwanted possible. She knows port us with prayers, volunteers what sacrifices of prayer, hard and donations, the goal being to open new Radio work and generosity are offered every day for the Maria stations in places that we have not reached Gospel of Her Son. Only in heaven will we know yet. We learned from each other and from the other how and to what extent His Word and His Spirit linguistic groups within our family through prayers have touched the lives of so many in need, through and multilingual programmes. We truly are a single the humble tool called Radio Maria. Please continue body and a single family in Christ. We are looking to share in the mission of Our Lady with us. Withforward again to the Mariathon this year to share out you, Radio Maria cannot exist. “Freely you have the gifts that God has so generously bestowed». received, freely give” (Matt. 10:8)».

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“Come and join the large Radio Maria family. Learn to grow in the faith with us„

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Freely you have received, freely give

Let us now meet Fr. In 2013, Radio Maria “Young people have gone Victor Atencio Batista, experienced a unique from being Radio Maria the director of RM opportunity, most espespectators to participants.

Panama who has lived cially in the American With their energy, vitality this ministry for eight continent: the broadand ideas they will years: Father Victor, casting of the World certainly contribute to our how did Radio Maria Youth Day in Brazil Panama listeners – with Pope Francis. evangelisation mission and in particular the What effect did this extowards their peers” young people – live the perience have on your solidarity of the Marivolunteers and espeathon 2013? What can you tell us about it? cially the younger ones?

«First of all, I should like to extend greetings to the «A group of friends of Radio Maria Panama took readers of “Miracle of Volunteers”. I remember that part in WYD in Rio de Janeiro. They brought home at first Radio Maria Panama was identified as a many profound memories which they will need to mabroadcaster that was only for senior citizens. I would ture with time to keep alive the memory of those days often hear young people say: “Radio Maria is the spent alongside the Pope alive. Radio Maria Panama station my grandmother listens to”. However over the also has a night-time programme dedicated to young years the change in style has meant we have been able people: this was the ideal venue for them to talk to to reach young people since the proclamation of the their peers about their personal experiences in Brazil.

Gospel is for everyone. So during the Mariathon 2013 For this reason, participation in the World Youth Day their participation and involvement were a success was an opportunity to enrich not only their own souls reaching a fundamental part of the population. and faith, but also that of Radio Maria’s collaboraMoreover by maktors and listeners». ing use of the Internet and its tools We thank Frs. it was possible to Robert and Vichost youngsters who tor for their teswent from being timonies and for spectators to fronttheir service in line participants the United States in Radio Maria’s and Panama, programmes. With showing how the their energy, vitality Madonna conand ideas they will tinues to call certainly contribute new missionaries to our evangelisathrough the sigtion mission tonal of Her sweet wards their peers». radio.

The director’s voice is that of a “good shepherd” that engages listeners and makes them a part of this missionary project

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© 2014 - all right reserved

Continental data 4 Radio Maria 14 transmitters 6.300.000 population coverage

ASIa/OCeANIa The Asian experience: Radio Maria and interfaith dialogue Interview with Fr. Paul Kote: Radio Maria and the testimony of faith

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— The Asian experience —

Radio Maria and interfaith dialogue

Asia represents the destiny of the world and of the Church.

Like his predecessors Pope John Paul II and Benedict XVI, Pope Francis dreams of being able to undertake an apostolic journey to the continent probably in 2014. fr. redemptus Benedictus Simamora ofm cap.

RM Indonesia Director

“Good evening Father, I am a Muslim, is it true that Jesus can save all people? It has been said that the Lord Jesus was crucified. How do you know that Jesus was crucified? According to my religion, it was Judas, who betrayed him, who was crucified, not Jesus”.

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his is one of the many episodes I have experienced with people of other religions, when I explain the roots of our faith during a programme I have on Radio Maria Indonesia. I go on the air every day and night for two or three hours: I receive many text messages from Muslims, Buddhists, Protestants and Catholics. Indonesia is a large and vast country with 230 million people, 80% of whom is Muslim and the remaining 20% is made up of other faiths. Catholics number but 5 million.

The joy and enthusiasm of the Radio Maria Indonesia volunteers and collaborators

Our country is made up of sixteen thousand islands, some of which are very large. Radio Maria Indonesia’s headquarters is located in the northern part of the island of Sumatra (which has a larger surface area than Italy), in

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria and interfaith dialogue

AsiA/Oceania

must always bear witness to the truth of our faith and not hide anything, as the martyrs who die in the name of the crucified Christ have done - and are still doing. The Church teaches us that Catholics love their neighbours even if they belong to another religion or culture: this is esteemed and admired by all.

Promotion activities in the Asian continent

the city of Medan, which has three million inhabitants. Christians here account for 50% of the population. Indonesia is a democratic country where freedom of religion is recognised. Radio Maria does not have close relations with Muslims, but we know that there are many non-Christian people who listen to our programmes daily. In this we are lucky, because in Northern Sumatra and in Medan relations between these two great monotheistic religions are trouble-free. Sometimes however, in certain provinces, there are differences between Catholics and Muslims, even when trying to live together with mutual respect.

Radio Maria’s path has not always been easy and sometimes we encountered problems when trying to dialogue between different religions. Once, on the radio, I was explaining the meaning of lent for Catholics: many were the phone calls and messages received from Muslims claiming that “their lent” was different and better. However, these experiences are relevant and are needed to mature along our journey of growth, and teach us that we

Since its inception Radio Maria Indonesia has reported positive news on relations between Muslims and Catholics, despite some conflicts in certain parts of the country. Additionally to keep the dialogue and the relationship between the two religions open, we remember the dates in which Muslims celebrate their feasts and offer them our prayers.

RM

Indonesia

4 million population coverage

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transmitter

As mentioned, there are many testimonies of people who though not Christian enjoy listening to our station. An example that struck me was that of an elderly woman who used to work in our parish. She retired a few years ago. Although a Muslim, she always listened to Radio Maria. But since she lived in a Muslim neighbourhood, she would go to the homes of her Catholic friends to listen to our radio programmes.

From the very start, Radio Maria Indonesia has gone on the air with this objective: proclaim our faith and the salvation of God, in a spirit of respect and acceptance of other religions. © 2014 - all right reserved

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— Interview with Fr. Paul Kote —

Radio Maria and the testimony of faith In the Pacific region the mass media play a key role in spreading the Good News for a church that is so young.

There are many people who have not yet heard of Christ and Radio Maria must respond to this call. vittorio viccardi WFRM General Secretary

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he question to the Director of RM Papua New Guinea is: how and when did Christianity arrive in your country?

«Officially the Church arrived in Papua New Guinea 47 year ago. 1966 was the year when the Catholic Bishops’ Conference established a dioceses in the country. However the foundations were laid many years before in about 1900 and with great enthusiasm, thanks to the work of the missionaries of the Divine Word who evangelised Northern Niugini. The missionaries of the Sacred Heart landed on the island of New Britain. Some years later the missionaries arrived in Bougainville Island through the Solomon sea, and they took on the imposing task of evangelising in the mountains of Papua New Guinea. The heart of the Church’s goal was based on creating educational and health

facilities throughout the country, which at that time was still not independent. By offering a number of different services, the Church began its work of evangelisation. In 1975 Papua New Guinea gained its independence and at the same time the missionaries founded facilities for educational and health service, giving life to the parish centres to continue their work of evangelisation. In some places getting the locals to accept the new lifestyle was not easy as they lacked education. The missionaries trained the young indigenous men and women, passing on their knowledge in a number of fields. Some religious congregations were invited to teach in schools and health centres as nurses. Today the Catholic church has grown: there are 19 dioceses and the work is imposing. The number of missionaries from abroad has diminished and so it is up to the locals to continue the work begun».

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Evangelisation in Oceania is carried out through new technologies

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA radio maria and the testimony of faith

Radio Maria and the new evangelisation in Oceania: what roads to take to proclaim the word of God? «Thanks to this means of communication, God’s Word reaches many parts of this country, especially the more remote areas. Oceania comprises many islands where many languages are spoken. In Papua New Guinea alone there are 800 dialects and this makes things more complicated. The most widelyspoken language is Pidgin English. Radio Maria has established itself in nine of the nineteen Roman Catholic Dioceses: Wewak, Kimbe, Rabaul, Aitape and Vanimo, coexisting with two Diocesan radios. There are technical facilities located in Alotau, Mendi, Mt Hagen, Vanimo and Lae. People are very interested in

Radio Maria and even the bishops, who at first were somewhat sceptical, are now showing an interest. We must work hard to attract people of different ages as listeners of Radio Maria Papua New Guinea. Our youth is attracted by the world of social communications, paying less attention to radio. We must work on our programming to inform people, distributing flyers and undertaking promotions in the dioceses where Radio Maria is listened to. Something that is much in demand and which we give out are the small transistor radios to tune in to Radio Maria. And finally we have received compliments regarding our training programmes: an extra boost to strive for improvement for the good of our people». © 2014 - all right reserved

Many of the programmes to promote human values are listened to by the faithful of other religions

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Continental data 23 Radio Maria 1.181 transmitters 198.420.00 population coverage

EUROPE The European experience: The voice of Radio Maria in existential suburbs Help Our Lady to help us: Radio Maria and solidarity

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— The European experience —

The voice of Radio Maria in existential suburbs There are two Radio Maria stations in Romania: one broadcasting in Romanian and one in Hungarian. Two voices, two cultures and two instruments of evangelisation for the salvation of souls.

Mihaly Csorba RM Romania (Hungarian speaking) coordinator

“

You give them something to eat!”

(Mark 6:37) said Jesus to his Apostles, giving them a task they did not think they could accomplish. Nevertheless they brought the five loaves and two fish which Jesus then miraculously multiplied.

This invitation by Jesus two thousand years

ago is still applicable to us today.

Radio Maria in Transylvania as in the rest of the world often finds itself facing poverty and the daily suffering of people. At first glance, some of these problems may seem small, we tend to minimise them without thinking of the burden they have been carrying for a life time. If we look closer at the problem afflicting our brother, we can see the fate of a man at the mercy of the waves, as he fights against suffering. We want to help our fellow man by pulling out those five loaves and the two fishes: but for the Lord to perform the miracle, we must present ourselves in front of Him with those few goods we have. The abundant positive feedback we receive daily encourages us, we are told that our work is not superfluous and many have experienced the strength to support the community, love through

The close cooperation between the individual Radio Maria stations and the World Family is an indispensable element for the development of the project

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA PREGHIERA E SPIRITUALITà IN RADIO MARIA

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA The voice of Radio Maria in existential suburbs

prayer and the knowledge that they are not alone.

There have been some who abandoned the temptation of suicide, who did not have an abortion, or doctors and nurses who decided to become conscientious objectors.

sick, lonely, families and those who have simply become tired of daily life and are looking for spiritual freshness.

In Eastern Europe, where we find ourselves, many of our brothers are unemployed, retired, people living on minimum wages and seriously sick children and young people. So we decided to reach out to our listeners so that they could meet people through the radio who can and want to help. For three years a programme we have called “Helping hand” provides an opportunity, either through phone calls or letters, to let people know about their problems and share them. In the course of these three years we have given voice to a multitude of requests: people who have lost their homes in a fire or other disasters; people having a spiritual crisis; people with serious congenital problems in urgent need of medical interventions.

Listening to these stories on the radio opened the hearts and ‘pockets’ of many of our listeners.

Some sick children were given the chance of a new life and together we shared the opportunity of getting to know and love the good Lord and save many souls.

Another sign of Divine Providence is the mission that we carry out for prison inmates.

Many have experienced the strength to support the community, love through prayer and the knowledge that they are not alone

We must support people spiritually, to enable them to remain strong in the midst of the storms. We must help those Christians who find themselves isolated in their work environment because of their faith and let them know that many other people share the same faith.

Via radio, prayer must clearly mark the lives of these people so that they become symbols for others in places where the Lord has placed them. We spiritually support people who are

Even children and young people in Romania listen to Radio Maria and the programmes dedicated to them

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA The voice of Radio Maria in existential suburbs

A listener in prison on robbery charges told us that when the doors of the prison were closed behind him he thought about committing suicide. But his wife continued to pray for him and after a few months he started coming for mass and receive the sacraments with the prison chaplain. Then his wife brought a small battery-operated radio and suggested him listen to Radio Maria: he received the strength to carry on, he felt love through the stories and voices heard on the radio. Now he goes to confession and says the Rosary three times a day (he had no idea what it was before). Unable to call, he wrote letters to our editors to give testimony about how he now lives his faith in prison thanks to Radio Maria. He now bears wit-

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ness to this love to the other inmates, in a difficult environment where there are many people who are far from God but are impressed in the face of small gestures of love.

Faith without the love of your neighbour is dead. This is what a man who has met the Lord - the Apostle James - said. Therefore, we should not only confess our faith, but live brotherly love through charity: donate with generosity, clothe the needy, feed the hungry and visit the sick and the lonely. Radio Maria has always considered it part of its mission and duty: help our fellow man, especially the least, with five loaves and two fish.

“I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me” Matt 25, 35b-36

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© 2014 - all right reserved

WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA

— Help Our Lady to help us —

Radio Maria and solidarity The experience of the first world Mariathon in the old continent. Between the economic crisis and crisis of values, the net was thrown and once again the Lord did not fail to lend help to Radio Maria. stefano chiappalone wfrm editorial assistant

External view of the Radio Maria Albania offices broadcasting from the city of Tirana

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria and solidarity

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adio Maria is already active in Europe with 21 stations, with others coming online shortly in other countries. In the Mariathon we experienced how the listeners’ love for Mary was concretely reflected in a show of solidarity so that many other people in the world could benefit from our work of evangelisation.

To re-live this experience, we asked Fr. Prenke Lazraj, Director of Radio Maria in Albania to tell us how his listeners lived the first world Mariathon in 2013, bringing the slogan “Help Our Lady to help us” to life.

«As for many European broadcasters, for us in Albania, the Mariathon 2013 was a new experience. We decided to take part because we acknowledge that we have received one of the greatest gifts in the 2000 years of Christianity of our people.

For us Radio Maria has been a gift of the Madonna through the benefactors of Radio Maria Italia and in turn we wanted to do something concrete for our brothers and sisters around the world who are still awaiting this gift.

I was in a parish in Kosovo, preaching spiritual exercises for the more than 1200 people there. On the last day I asked them to commit to spreading the word of God. After mass a lady approached me and said: I am ready, but what can I do?”. I answered: “Ask your friends to come to the cross in the centre of town

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to say the Rosary together the for nine days”. And so we organised the Mariathon from the 1st to the 9th of May in nine parishes in Kosovo where Radio Maria Albania has been broadcasting for five years.

On the 10th and 11th of May many volunteers in five different locations were ready to receive the gifts of Radio Maria’s listeners. We broadcast live from 8 am to 11 pm from the cities of Shkodra, Tirana, Durres, Alessio and Gjakova (Kosovo). As the collections progressed, the volunteers wanted to come online and report their updates. From the 12th to the 30th of May we continued the Mariathon in some parishes in Albania. To organise everything we spent about €550 but we collected over €32,000».

Which project have you supported and why?

«In every parish where we organised the Mariathon we prayed for three hours. At the same time listeners gave donations to the volunteers in support of the 11 Radio Maria global projects.

Basically we supported all the projects.

I cannot find the words to describe the joy of the people who participated in this Mariathon. Jesus saw the poor widow of the Gospel because many men and women gave all they had to help the 11 projects Radio Maria wants to reach in the world».

Let us now look at the whole European continent with the help of Bernhard Mitterrutzner, WF continental representative

Albanian-language poster for the first Mariathon to support the project in Nigeria

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WORLD FAMILY OF RADIO MARIA Radio Maria and solidarity

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of all instead of spreading it further with the selfishness of a few».

Thank you Bernhard, one more question: if you had to pick up three lasting images of the Mariathon what would they be?

«I will choose three: the heart, a smile and the network.

There were many external links and informational services to provide updates on the progress of this important event of world solidarity

for Europe. The first question that I would like to ask Bernhard is about the period of economic crisis we are experiencing: in this context, which is undoubtedly difficult, what is Europe’s response to this global event of solidarity?

«I think that Divine Providence ensured that Radio Maria’s first World Mariathon took place at the peak of the economic crisis in Europe. Maybe this was the precise context in which our Lady wanted to educate all Radio Maria’s friends and listeners to consider not so much the amount of the donation, but rather the inner motivations behind it: love, joy and solidarity, which transform every donation into a blessing. This is what happened: although we did not reach all our economic goals, a missionary flame of solidarity and participation was lit by listeners of all Radio Maria stations worldwide, a radio that is increasingly spreading. Driven by the joy of being able to do good in many other countries, they are keen to know how the projects are growing worldwide and what they might need. In practice, preparations are going on next big Mariathon. Seeing this one almost gets the impression that our Lady wants to give a sign to counter the global economic crisis: overcome it with the solidarity

“On this occasion I send a special blessing to the Mariathon of the World Family of Radio Maria.

I encourage all people of goodwill from the 65 countries in the world in the 5 continents participating in these missionary days„ The Holy Father’s message for the Mariathon – May 11, 2013

The heart: because the Mariathon is an opportunity to train your heart to love Jesus further more for all that He has said and has done for us. Love our Lady more, who, as a good mother, is always listening to us and unites us with her Son, the beloved son of her heart. Love Radio Maria more, which wants to live this friendship with Jesus, the Virgin Mary, the Saints and the entire community of the Church.

A smile: because receiving one is a joy, but so is giving one. And among listeners in Europe, this joy has grown.

The network: the net (radio network) cast by the Divine Fisherman in the sea of the world is becoming bigger and stronger». © 2014 - all right reserved

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wo r l d

fa m i l y

WORLD DATA 68 Radio Maria 1.707 transmitters 485.720.000 population coverage

EUROPE Via Mazzini, 12 21020 Casciago (VA) – Italy Phone: +39 0332 1955001 Fax: +39 0332 826920 E-mail: info.wf@radiomaria.org Via Rusticucci, 13 00193 Roma – Italy Phone: + 39 06 64005701 Fax: +39 06 64005707 E-mail: roma.wf@radiomaria.org

AFRICA P.O. Box 38655 Ursino Street, Plot 55 Dar Es Salaam – Tanzania Phone/Fax +255 222700871 E-mail: africa@radiomaria.org

AMERICA 21 Oliver Street, New York NY 10038 – USA Phone: +1 212 2338040, +1 718 4170550 Fax: +1 212 2338046 E-mail: wfny@radiomariainternet.us

www.radiomaria.org

www.radiomaria.org