Radio Maria Testimonies by World Family of Radio Maria

Radio Maria

TESTIMONIES

Radio Maria

www.radiomaria.org

TESTIMONIES Listeners, from all over the world, tell their experiences

Radio Maria

TESTIMONIES Listeners, from all over the world, tell their experiences.

Introductions

Fr. Livio Fanzaga

pag. 5

Vittorio Viccardi

H. E. Mons. José Ignacio Munilla

H. Em. Card. Christoph Schönborn

A Radio of Vocation

A Radio of Healing

A Radio of Conversion

A Radio that Saves Lives

A Radio of Consolation

101

A Radio of Companionship

109

A School of Faith

129

A Radio that Shares Miracles

139

A Radio that Trains Disciples

145

Dear Friends, Radio Maria broadcasts programs of prayer, evangelization, and human development. ‘The interaction and response of our listeners plays a very important role in our work. It stimulates interest and has a profound effect not only on themselves, but on all of our listenership.

Fr. Livio Fanzaga Directors’ Advisor World Family of Radio Maria

That participation is almost never a question of trivial interventions, but of sharing life testimonies that involve, move, and encourage others. This is possible because people who listen to Radio Maria feel part of a large family that they are in tune with and to whom they are not afraid to open their hearts. Radio Maria is made up of people who listen to the World, who pray with a single voice, and who—holding one another’s hands—provide companionship through the stages of their faith journey. In this pilgrimage, people’s spiritual situations are very diverse. Some find themselves in pain, some in joy; some in hope and some in despair; some trusting and some discouraged; some in the certainty of faith and some in the torment of doubt. People open up and sometimes even “confess”, finding in, not only the program presenter but also other listeners themselves, the words they were looking for, the understanding they lacked, and an answer that satisfies them. Radio Maria is an example of how a mass medium can be used for good or ill, that of destroying as well as that of building up. Our Lady chose for herself this flexible and effective means of the radio to speak to the hearts of countless people, to make her maternal tenderness felt, to be close to the lonely, to console the afflicted, to bring relief to the ill, to encourage the young, to bring peace to families and communities, to bring us to know and love her Son, and to enflame in our hearts the hope of eternity. We feel this silent but intense presence that Our Lady has in the hearts of our listeners in their testimonials andwe also hear its echo in these pages. Yours truly, Fr. Livio

For more than 30 years, Radio Maria has been broadcasting over the airwaves, working tirelessly to offer answers to millions of persons, whose existential questions arise from the depth of the human experience. Our listeners’ active participation and millions of hours of live programming show just how essential this work is.

Vittorio Viccardi President - World Family of Radio Maria

That is why, when we consider the role of Radio Maria in the world today, we understand it as a physical presence which seeks to serve the formation of our contemporaries. Statistics indicate that, today, this path is more critical than ever, and that it is growing. It is no coincidence, therefore, that now we are also being asked to support the Catholic Church’s mission of pastoral care and human development throughout the world. Beyond any talk of numbers—which give a real indication of the phenomenon, however—the small daily miracles that occur through listening to our radio provide a clear idea of the Radio Maria Project. It is an inner journey in which the great mystery of God’s grace operates, a grace that can reach places that are sometimes inscrutable: the human heart. The testimonials that we have collected in this publication bear proof to this fact. I would like to thank all the Radio Maria editorial staffs around the world who have contributed to this work, which confirms what I have seen personally in my almost twenty years of travel and work with Radio Maria Associations around the world. Vittorio Viccardi

saying that publishing the catechism was the greatest legacy of St. John Paul II’s pontificate. As for me, the mandate I received to explain the catechism on Radio Maria has allowed me to put Benedict XVI’s words into practice: “defend the faith of the simple”.

Mons. José Ignacio Munilla Bishop of San Sebastian (Spain)

I began working with Radio Maria in 2004, around two years before I was consecrated a bishop. To those who have asked, I have always had the pleasure of replying that I am not a bishop who collaborates with Radio Maria but a Radio Maria collaborator who was appointed a bishop. Even if it may seem the same in principle, I think it has a very special nuance. I remember that, having just been appointed bishop but before I was consecrated, Pope Benedict XVI visited us in Spain for the celebration of World Family Day in Valencia. The Spanish bishops were fortunate enough to meet him in the chapel where the Holy Grail is kept. I remember, as if it were yesterday, that the Pope asked us—with a firm but loving tone—to defend the faith of the simple. Not only have I never forgotten those words, but I have seen them realized many times in a particularly practical way through Radio Maria’s ministry.

The Magisterium of the Church has given life to a universal catechism with the request to bishops that it be adapted to the persons entrusted to them, taking into account the different levels of understanding, age, cultural context, etc. From personal experience, I can say that, in sharing this catechism, people from very different socio-cultural and personal contexts can come together, united by a simplicity of the heart. Truly, the condition for being able to receive the Gospel proclamation is precisely that of humility and simplicity of heart. I can testify that when the hunger and thirst for God are hidden in the human heart, spreading the faith becomes one of the most joyful ministries. It is an immense joy to see how the Word reaches hearts that were waiting for it and preparing for its arrival. Without forgetting, of course, that Christ’s heart also suffers profoundly for the rejection of his Word. I feel obliged to say publicly, with gratitude, that the best thing that has happened in my life has been to be a witness to how God has moved the souls of the simple to conversion, making use of our humble service for this work. Like the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves, a miracle of grace is also performed in Radio Maria’s evangelization. The means may be simple, but a greater use could not be made of it! + José Munilla

I can only thank God for allowing me, over several years, to lead the explanation of the Catholic Church’s catechism on Radio Maria Spain. It is a miracle that the Church has given life to such a well-developed and precise catechism, in a cultural context so marked by relativism! I think I am not mistaken in

Vienna, September 2019

Card. Christoph Schönborn Metropolitan Archbishop of Vienna (Austria)

What began with a parish radio in a small village in Italy has become a true success story. Today, Radio Maria is one of the most important Catholic radio stations. All over the world, a true family of listeners—to which I also belong—has been formed. For 18 years now, I have been happy to explain the Gospel regularly, every Sunday, and to hold catechesis on Radio Maria Austria. My special thanks go to all the men and women, volunteers and full-time collaborators, who contribute with so much love, humor, and enthusiasm to the success of these programs. This impressive book of testimonies with stories of listeners from around the world, shows that Radio Maria truly moves people’s hearts. They are touching stories that show how God works in the lives of listeners and what support they experience through Radio Maria and their bond with the community of believers. The stories are full of hope and joy, full of comfort and trust. It is a joy to read how, through Radio Maria, listeners discover the beauty of faith, how they learn about their vocation, how they experience strength and consolation in difficult times, and how their lives flourish in trusting God and through the intercession of Mary, the Mother of God. I am always very impressed when I experience the love that so many people have for Mary. This trust in Jesus’ Mother comes from the heart. It is spontaneous: filial but not childish. She is the Mother of the Lord and, in a unique way, the Mother of all persons. She lives and is close to those who ask for her help. May reading these testimonies of life and faith bring joy, hope, and strength to our daily lives! + Christoph Cardinal Schönborn

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF VOCATION

As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they abandoned their nets and followed him. Mk 1:16-18

Radio Maria embraces vocations. From the editorial director to the simplest listener hidden in their daily "Nazareth", everyone responds to this call with which Our Lady wants to lead us to a life of fullness. Prayer is fundamental in this journey. It is Radio Maria's most important activity. Only through prayer can each of us discover the wonders that the Lord has reserved for us, including discerning our earthly vocation. We follow different paths that all aim at the primary purpose for which we were created: to become saints.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Sister Pauline, Nedumangad, India/Kerala I am Sr. Pauline from the city of Nedumangad in the state of Kerala, India. Among my siblings I am the only daughter. My parents, with their strict industriousness, brought us up with care. As I was growing up, my parish was my second home. At home, in school, and in the parish, everyone trusted me and encouraged me to be active in activities such as singing in the choir and participating in giving speeches, and I was very eagerto learn the catechism. As I grew up, after finishing my studies, I began to teach catechism in our parish. I was very excited to participate actively in the Mission League Association. In 1990, the Pallottine Sisters of the Catholic Apostolate opened a mission in our parish. Watching them, I became very attracted to becoming a consecrated religious. The Sisters were very cordial with me. Eventually, I became their first candidate from Manikyapuram Parish. During my initial formation, the Sisters had me teach in the sub-station of Eliapuram where I taught in the nursery school for one year. Soon after, the Sisters accompanied me to Edakochi for my formation to become a member of their order. There I found a friendly atmosphere in a life of prayer, religious instruction, the practice of community life, and housework. During this period, we were exposed to the rich experience of knowing God and learning ways of how to love and serve God and the Church. After three years, I became a Sister. The first year of religious life was a year of grace and enthusiasm for me. I was happy with my communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sisters. During that year, however, I acknowledged that I had a strong tendency to express anger at every kind of irritation. I was not displaying it but rather keeping everything inside. I was

A RADIO OF VOCATION

transferred to Andhra Pradesh where I had difficulties communicating with the children because they spoke Telugu. It was then time for summer vacation, during the month of May in 2003. I was with the community in Manikapuram to do my annual retreat on 3 May. The previous day, I had had a severe headache and early that morning I suddenly went into a coma. When I reopened my eyes and recovered my consciousness, I discovered that one month had passed. I was surrounded by my parents, siblings, my community Sisters and our superiors from Edakochi. Gradually, I came to learn that I had been admitted to Thiruvananthapuram Medical College. Everyone had been doubtful of my recovery. I was given the best treatment available and kept in the ICU. All of my community Sisters in India, Rome, Brazil, and the USA had offered intensive prayers and novenas. The local superiors had begun planning for my funeral since I would have been the first member to die in India. I learned that I had had a brain hemorrhage. But God had another plan for me. I did not die and slowly I began to recover. After my recovery I experienced something new. I became easily irritated, annoyed, and could not accept my situation. My mental agony was due to thinking about what I could do with my life since I was still young. I was very depressed. I could not bear any noise or any disagreement. I could not sit idle and headaches continued to oppress me. I would easily get extremely tired and sweaty. But my parents and community sisters had been very loving and understanding with me. With great trust they assigned me some responsibilities, such as being in charge of the hostel. Then they transferred me to be the receptionist of another convent. But I was unexpectedly struck with epilepsy and was

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF VOCATION

frequently transferred. Then I went back to Edakochi. I suffered many disasters. I had to be operated on for my knee, shoulder, and jaw, which had been dislocated. I suffered from a thyroid disorder and high cholesterol. I experienced physical and mental pain. Then, in 2013, Radio Maria was established in Aroor, India. Our community had been invited to appoint a sister to collaborate in the holy mission of spreading Mary’s voice. There had been a discussion in our community. Providence inspired my superiors to ask me whether I could carry out this mission. I was greatly touched. I became convinced that it was a “call within a call”. Even though I was aware of my weaknesses, I rejoiced over this assignment. When the Radio Maria board members heard of my nomination, I think they too were doubtful about my perseverance. With the blessing and trust of my superiors, I joined the staff. From my first day at Radio Maria I felt convinced that God had called me to proclaim the Good News about the Kingdom of God and to make known and felt the love of our Mother Mary. While serving at Radio Maria, my eyes were opened. I met people who were victims of extreme suffering; they suffered more than I had. They had been deprived of even fundamental necessities, but they were so joyful and prayed with great trust and confidence. I acknowledge the love of God and the affection of our Mother Mary, giving witness and thanks for this blessing. I began to have self-confidence and began to love my life again, giving my whole self in the service of God and loving Mary. I acknowledge the gradual change and transformation that God is granting me. My tendencies to get irritated, restless, or angry are growing milder and milder, for which I thank the Lord

and Mary. Today, I do not give vent to my anger but feel more compassion towards others who are suffering. I feel a great sense of gratitude towards the director and all the staff members for surrounding me with cordiality, patience, and mutual assistance. I recognize with humility that God has bestowed some talents upon me so that I may utilize them in His service. I can assure myself that God is protecting me. My health is improving. During my service at Radio Maria I have had an epileptic episode only three times. I do get tired, but with the care of my community and Radio Maria, my energies are restored and renewed. Day by day I am being inspired to love and do much more to love God, our Mother Mary, and every person I encounter. I know that life is brief. When God provides an opportunity, it is beneficial to return his gifts, serving him fully.

Sister Sylvia Atim, Uganda/Moroto Radio Maria made me a religious sister! My name is Sister Sylvia Atim of the Missionary Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Church. Since January 2018, I have been working as an administrator for the substation of Radio Maria Uganda in Moroto. When I was a little girl, I had a strong feeling that I wanted to become a religious sister. As I grew up however, for some reason, the desire grew weaker and eventually disappeared. Thanks to my mother, a very devoted listener of Radio Maria, I was inspired to start listening to the radio. Every day she used to spend time searching for the Radio Maria signal because our home was located in a zone where reception was not very clear. I eventually joined her in searching for

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF VOCATION

the signal until we found a good spot, putting the radio on a tree branch in our home compound. Whenever it rained, though, we knew that our day would be spoiled since we would not be able to listen to the radio. I loved the programs so much, especially the moments of prayer like when the Mass was broadcast live, the Rosary, Divine Mercy chaplet, catechism lessons, and the Ugandan Martyrs program, among others. When I went to the university in Kampala, over three hundred kilometers away from home, I had ample time to listen to the radio without difficulty, since the reception in the city is very clear. After listening to Radio Maria for some time, I started to feel again a very strong longing to become a sister. In fact, this time it was so strong that I felt I should join a convent right away. Many times, when Mass was broadcast live on Radio Maria, I would imagine the Mass that is celebrated to profess the vows for religious life. Often, tears would be rolling down my cheeks. On some occasions I lay prostrate on the ground, so that the blessings from the hands of the priest celebrating Mass on the radio could reach me and immediately make me a religious sister!!!! After university I immediately applied to join the congregation of Missionary Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Church. However, before I could begin my formation, I had to wait another two years at the advice of my sponsor who thought that it was better to work before entering the convent. During these two years, I kept listening to Radio Maria and each day the desire to become a sister kept burning like a fire within me. When the two years were finally over, I applied again and was admitted to the Institute of the Missionary Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Church, in Lira Diocese, Northern

Uganda. I can proudly say that Radio Maria made me realize my vocation, which otherwise would have been lost. When I finally took my vows, out of twenty-five sisters in my group, I was the only one chosen to work in Radio Maria Uganda Moroto. How that happened, I cannot explain.

Christian, Deacon, France Now I understand why I was on the radio; I had to be closer to the Virgin Mary. The seven-year period I spent with Radio Maria France enriched me spiritually. It helped me make progress on my journey towards the diaconate in the presence of the Lord and the Virgin Mary. My parents are Catholic. We were a practicing family but, at the age of 18, I abandoned my faith and, unfortunately, moved away from the Lord. After my military career ended in 1972, I got married, worked in a bank, and stayed there for seven years. During those seven years I suffered greatly because it was not what I wanted to do. There were problems on all levels and the employees didn’t get along. I couldn’t take it anymore. I shouted out to the Lord and he listened to me. Now I know that He was present in my heart but I wasn’t aware of it. I resigned and went to work for another bank. From that moment on, something happened. I saw the Lord, full of mercy and love, and I absolutely wanted to follow him. So, I looked for him, read the Bible enthusiastically, and found a friend along my path. He was a Jehovah’s Witness, but I saw that that was not my place because there was a widespread sense of guilt and no love. We didn’t talk about

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF VOCATION

Jesus, which was not the solution I was looking for. I left, looking for the Lord, not only in his word but also in my work. Since I worked in an office, at a desk, many elderly people came in creating new relationships. I also dedicated myself to humanitarian work. I held support courses for an association for children having problems at school. All this meant that, little by little, my life was anchored in the Lord, but I had a certain amount of suffering because I was feeling pressure in my work. The more I sought stability, the more I suffered; the more I worried, the more I clung to the Lord. One night, as I was leaving work, I was really exhausted. I turned on the radio and listened to Radio Maria. Vespers was being prayed and it pierced my heart deeply. I burst into tears, which was shocking for me. When an invitation to attend Holy Mass was announced to the listeners, and I said to myself: “Why not?” So, I went to the Monastery of Cimiez where there was a Mass for listeners that touched me deeply.I met the staff and, little by little, I became involved in Radio Maria. Every Monday morning, I had the heartfelt joy of being able to proclaim the Lord, to pray, and to meet listeners over the phone. I really want to thank Radio Maria, which truly represented a turning point in my journey..

Fr. Georges Garcia, Nice, France We are celebrating the Eucharist on Holy Thursday, the day dedicated to priests. On this occasion we wanted to speak with you so that you could share your testimony with us and tell us abouthHow you were called to the priesthood. Fr. Garcia: I’m 56 years old and I entered the seminary

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF VOCATION

when I was 49. I had a life before, particularly in the professional world, but I believe that all things happen at the right time; that’s what I feel. When my time came, it was a long journey, especially before I arrived here in Nice. I come from Drôme. I went to Nice and Monaco in 2002, not knowing anyone. My inner life was full of questions: what is the meaning of my life? What am I doing on this earth? From that moment I became more open to what I was feeling. What job did you have when you arrived in the Nice region? Fr. Garcia: I’ve practiced many professions in my life because I was in research: I was really a seeker. What stabilized me the most was my charitable work. I worked in a nursing home as a gardener and handyman. Before that I was a salesman and owned a shop. I’ve been a soldier, a fireman, and a sportsman. I had an eight-year sporting career, in the end, it was all very “external”. One day, when I was working at the retirement home, a colleague called me asking for help for a person who could not look after herself. It was about feeding an elderly, disabled person so I went without a second thought. When I started feeding her, her eyes struck me. I said to myself: “She needs me.” Then, in her eyes, I saw that I also needed her. What made me laugh so much was, when a friend of mine said to me a few years later: “See, you went from the spoon to the host!” It was precisely this outreach, this meeting that moved me so much more than all the trades I had practiced up to that point. It was revelation for me and I said to myself: “I want to take care of others.” So, I began a new career path in a hospital. I started in the kitchens and then went to an assistance position. Finally, I went to paramedical school, training to be

an instructor in patient management as well as learning events handling. I spent 25 years at the hospital. So, you arrived in the Nice area in search of what to do and there was a turning point in your life that led you toward spirituality. Was that it? Fr. Garcia: Yes. In effect, I found myself alone, having to face myself. In coming here, I left my family, my friends, my region, all my old habits.Even though there are many people in Monaco, it was a lonely life for me. Even though there are many people in Monaco, I was alone with myself. It was at that moment that I began to ask myself existential questions. Since then, many things have fallen into place. I met people who welcomed me, Christians. I became friends with Christians. It’s not that others didn’t welcome me, but everything remained on a superficial level with them. With the Christians, I experienced love and charity. One day, a nurse said to me? “Do you know this station, Radio Maria? It’s fantastic. You should listen to it!” So, I started listening to Radio Maria for one or two months. Then, they called for volunteers and so I went. I was shy. Once there, I met the director at the time. Then, later, the people who worked in the office. There was the presence of the listeners and many meetings that opened doors for me and, above all, that triggered something in me. You started working as a volunteer and you ended up leading two programs, then another one called “Hello, Young People”. That program was led by Gloria and Rebecca. Then came “A Dominican Voice” with Brother Yves-Marie Lecam of the Dominicans of Nice. And finally, a spirituality program. Fr. Garcia: Yes. The one on spirituality came later. I started praying on the radio: every Sunday afternoon I prayed the Rosary and vespers even though I had never prayed

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF VOCATION

much in my life. Jean-Claude asked me to come on Sunday afternoons because he was missing a person. It was while I was waiting for a job. It was the beginning. I looked forward to praying the Rosary and vespers live on Sundays. I also met people, including someone who worked at Radio Maria who invited me to go on a retreat for vocations. All that time I had continued to ask myself many questions, so I went on the spiritual retreat, following the exercises of St. Ignatius, which I wasn’t familiar with. At first it was a bit difficult because of the silence, which I was not accustomed to. But the meeting with the Dominican friars from Nice was also an important step. I had met the Dominicans because, at Radio Maria, I had been asked to help broadcast a live Mass from their church, St. Francis of Paola. The preaching of the prior at the time was a revelation to me. It moved me so strongly that, at the end of Mass, I went to see him to ask if I could come back. “Certainly,” he said, “this house welcomes you.” I went back for more than two years until I became familiar with the place. I had many beautiful encounters, beautiful things thanks to the Virgin Mary and Radio Maria. What was your call like? Was it gradual? You spoke of a vocational retreat that you made. Was that when the idea of the priesthood presented itself to you? Fr. Garcia: Not really, not at that moment. At the end of the retreat I felt ready to live a consecrated life, but I didn’t know how to do it or what form it would take. I didn’t feel ready to give myself completely. I still had a way to go but I knew that I had a call. I began four years of formation, instead of five, for the permanent diaconate. I remembered that I had felt a call in my childhood, very early, without understanding it well and everything came back to me. I also

had spiritual guidance and very quickly things fell into place. I entered the seminary in Nice. There were not very many of us. It was a seminary with a family setting, and I remained there for one year. Then I was sent to Aix-en-Provence and there were five of us at first, then three. Finally, I entered a large diocesan seminary, and everything went well.

Pedro Antonio Acosta Isturain, Panama Currently, I am the director of the program “Gospel, Consumerism, and Society”. On 19 August 2008, in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, I had a cranioencephalic episode (a brain aneurysm) and I was admitted to the Confraternity of the Holy House of Mercy in São Paulo where I was given a craniotomy. Having been operated on, I returned to Panama on 28 August. A month after being treated in Panama I was admitted to Santo Tomás Hospital because of a staphylococcus aureus infection in the surgical wound, which kept me there until the end of December. During my stay in the hospital, when I had to undergo rigorous treatment in neurosurgery and infectious diseases, I always had my cell phone nearby so I could listen to Radio Maria at any time, especially during the moments of praying the Rosary. I listened to almost every program because my treatment with different antibiotics was every three or four hours, which meant I could stay always connected to Radio Maria until the day I was released. Curiously, and I always say this, it was the Salve Regina in the prayer of the Rosary that I waited for and that made me happy every time I prayed it. Ra-

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF VOCATION

dio Maria kept me closely connected with the prayer-life of the Church throughout my illness. When I returned home and to my regular activities, I tried to integrate myself into the parish, but the death of the parish priest meant I had to wait and, once again, Radio Maria was by my side. It was the Mariathon of 2009 and I was following the events. I listened to the announcements for donations. I decided to donate even if, after the accident, my finances were no longer the same. But I also wanted to contribute to the Mariathon. I had only heard about it on Radio Maria and I didn’t know what it was about. I called the switchboard in the middle of the Mariathon to offer my donation and Fr. Victor Atencio answered the phone. The day I went to Radio Maria to deliver my donation, I asked for Fr. Victor. I introduced myself and we spoke for no more than twenty minutes but, when I left his office, I had already committed to hosting a program. That’s how the “Let’s Talk about Consumerism” program started, on Monday evenings every other week. In the new and excellent atmosphere that Radio Maria has created for me, “Let’s Talk about Consumerism” has been continuously evolving in its content and topics, spreading the message of the Gospel and of our Church. A couple of years ago, the program’s name was changed to “Gospel, Consumerism, and Society”. It was some words spoken by the Holy Father Benedict XVI that inspired the broadcast’s new name: “It is the task of all the faithful to proclaim the Gospel where secularism, indifference, and consumerism grow.” My work as a presenter and as a program volunteer, has also led me to collaborate with the radio as much as possible, with the means available to me, and without sparing any effort,

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF VOCATION

because I identify so much with Radio Maria’s role and function in our country and in the world. I offer all of my experience, always entrusting myself to the guidelines of Radio Maria.

ght at his school. He answered, “Mom, I want to be a priest.” And I said to him, “All right. You have all year to think about it.” He said, “Mom, my desire to become a priest is not going to go away.” The first year of studies he didn’t say anything but during the second year he said to me, “Mom, I want to be a priest.” So, I took him to the Charismatic Renewal group and he made his first retreat. That was when his fervor began, and I started to feel good about what he was going through. He never stopped listening to Radio Maria and he would tell me that he liked to listen to the sermons, even the program “Path to Faith”, which was on at 10am. He said again, “I like to hear it. I listen again at night because I sleep better with the radio.” At a certain point, my son said: “Mom, I want to be a Franciscan. I want to enter the Franciscan order. I want to start the process.” After asking if he was really sure, he was still convinced. He said, “Yes, yes, mom.” So, I felt good but I was also a little incredulous because he was young and that had often led him to change his mind. He started the formation and always went to the Renewal meetings. At the end they told him, “You’ve passed all the tests and today you are ready to enter the Franciscan order. That is why I say that Radio Maria’s evangelization is very “powerful”. We would like more young people to listen and follow the example. In families, it is important that we as parents support them, sowing the small seed, and our heavenly Father will do the rest. This is a great blessing and I feel very blessed because the radio is very important; Radio Maria is very important. It helped my son take his first steps on the path of priestly formation.

Anonymous, El Salvador Listening to Radio Maria, my son has entered the Franciscan order I want to offer my small witness to tell how Radio Maria has helped me in my home, especially with my children. Once, I turned on the radio and tuned it to Radio Maria. I didn’t listen deeply until I started to attend Charismatic Renewal. At that time, my children were a little reluctant to go to church, even though they had always gone to Mass because they studied in a Salesian Catholic school. I went there, but they were already big, almost adolescents, and they didn’t want to hear about the Church any more. Suddenly, the oldest, who was 19- years-old, and then the youngest, who was 7-years-old, started to go to Mass. They accompanied me to church and the younger one told me that he liked the Mass, liked what they had to say and what they preached, and that he wanted to know more. Sometimes he would argue with me because he wanted to listen to his music and I wouldn’t let him or I would argue with him and tell him it was my turn to listen to the radio. Then, when he was in 9th grade, he said to me, “Mom, I want to be a priest.” At the time, Don Bosco’s relics had arrived at his school and he was very moved by it. I said to him, quite surprised, “But, my love, you are finishing the school year right now and we are looking for a high school for next year.” He wanted to study architecture and that wasn’t tau-

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF HEALING

A RADIO OF VOCATION

“You know … what has happened all over Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached, how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.” Acts 10:37-38

Jesus came to free and heal His people. Today, the Lord still acts through His Church and grants healing graces through His word, the Sacraments, and the prayer of the faithful. Radio Maria lives all of this 24 hours a day, a continuous presence of the risen Lord. Countless graces of bodily and spiritual healings bear witness to this.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Valentina Nekhorosheva, Ukraine My name is Valentina. I would like to share my story of conversion and healing. In 2010, I fell and hurt myself badly. After that, I also fell ill with leukaemia, a serious disease of the blood. Because of my fall, I was bed-ridden and had some implants put in my leg. I was struggling with difficult psychological and physical conditions. I weighed only 39 kg and was as yellow as a candle. During this time, my sister called me and advised me to turn on Radio Maria. I didn’t even want to listen to it, but when I did, it became a prayer line and I felt like someone was praying for me. I was very touched by that and from then on, I became a dedicated Radio Maria listener. In just a short time, I was healed from the disease and it was a real miracle. After I was healed, the first thing I did was visit Radio Maria. On that day, they were celebrating the 2nd anniversary of Radio Maria Ukraine. At the time, I wasn’t the kind of person who goes to church or take the Sacraments, but I asked the director, Fr. Alexei Samsonov, about confession. He did not refuse me and said that I should study the catechism with Radio Maria, which I did. After confession, I received Holy Communion, and performed a monthly novena. My son has also followed me in my conversion. I heartily thank our God for Radio Maria, a tool for spreading the Good News and my personal path of conversion to faith.

Tetiana, Ukraine I would like to share my witness about Radio Maria in my life. During my pregnancy, I started bleeding suddenly. The

A RADIO OF HEALING

doctors said that, in order to save my life, I had to agree to terminate my pregnancy. I was depressed; I did not want to do it. I called our Radio Maria, live since it was during the Chaplet of Divine Mercy prayer, and asked about prayers for myself. I do not know who or how they prayed for me, but God heard them. Now I am holding my baby in my arms. Happily, she was born and is healthy. May God bless all of Radio Maria’s listeners! Thank you for praying together. God hears our prayers.

Dr. Dubravka Šimunović, Zagabria, Croatia My name is Dr. Dubravka Šimunović and l’m a long-time collaborator with Radio Maria. I arrange and conduct public health programming. At first, I often wondered if Mary had chosen me or if I had wanted to impose my desires on Mary. I often came back to this question, until one Friday when I was scheduled to hold a show. A few days earlier l had eaten tainted meat that had come from a reputable supply center, and I went into anaphylactic shock. Although numerous complications were avoided because of a rapid medical intervention, doctors explained to me that, had the shock affected my respiratory system, I would not have survived. I remembered the moment when I was lying on the stretcher, looking for one of the health workers to draw a blanket over me. My whole body felt like an iceberg. At that point, my work, job duties, and all other pre-arranged activities had no meaning. My mind was occupied by the single thought of getting warm. As a nurse covered my tired body with a blood-stained blanket (apologizing that there weren’t any covers for it) I realized just how little was needed to re-

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF HEALING

ach tranquillity. As the warmth spread through my body, it became clear to me that all my obligations and plans for that week were off. Common sense told me that from Wednesday to Friday it would not be possible to recover enough to do the show. In some situations, however, we don’t really know what we think we know. Our Lady sent me a miracle. Through my painful and dangerous experience, I was sent a very clear message. That message said: “You did not choose me, but I chose you”. On Friday I was at the radio station, as if nothing had happened. And today y 8emember

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF HEALING

By my side were the doctors and above me only God. That day, thousands of people prayed for my life. Radio Maria prayed for days, on all the continents. A priest came to visit me and gave me the Anointing of the Sick. God showed mercy on me and gave me a new life. I thank him for it every day. The fact is: I didn’t have a voice and now I sing; I didn’t have legs and now I run: I didn’t have arms and now I’m helping. YES, GOD IS GREAT! PRAISE JESUS! Radio Maria is my second home. I am there every week, several times as a volunteer. I walk, and praise God’s providence. I sit, and I feel the presence of Jesus. I speak, and I proclaim the faith! My name is Miroslav Vukmanov-Šimokov, I’m 35 years old and I know that my life is a precious gift and that God should be praised! It is a struggle to walk, but even when I fall, I am not humiliated. His Power raises me up! Amen, hallelujah!

thought she had found the right husband in John; she never thought John would divorce her! This is Evelesi’s story. Evelesi is a Catholic in her thirties. She was once-married and happy. John was her husband. When John proposed to Evelesi, he knew that she was Catholic and he promised her that he would convert to Catholicism once they get married. They got married and were blessed with four children. Then, things started taking the wrong path for Evelesi. She started suffering from an unknown illness. She was sickly and couldn’t complete her daily household chores. John couldn’t take living with a sick wife anymore. Although this led to their eventual divorce, it did not shatter her faith. She kept on praying to God for health and recovery from her sickness. Heartbroken and feeling lonely, Evelesi turned to her rosary and especially liked to follow its prayer when it was broadcast on her favorite radio station - Radio Maria Malawi. The radio became her companion. She could follow the prayers on Radio Maria Malawi together with the various volunteers at the microphones. Through the intercession of her lovely friend and confidant, our Holy (Mather) Mary, Evelesi’s health was restored. She is fine and physically fit now. Since the day that she was healed physically and emotionally she has started to become involved in Radio Maria activities as a friend of the radio. She has no physical or emotional pain now, only joy and peace through the relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary. Her life is changing for the better every day with Radio Maria Malawi.

Mrs. Evelesi, Malawi She couldn’t foresee that the matter of interfaith marriage could become a burning issue in her marriage, so much so that it would lead her and her husband to divorce. She loved her husband and he reciprocated that love. What could be the root of their problem? Could it be the illness which left her frail? Could it be that she had married a Protestant? She thought he would be an enduring partner, but she found out that, in order to sustain their relationship, a positive influence was necessary to keep it afloat, hence her persistent requests to her husband that they go together to church. However, he constantly refused to accompany her to church and boldly told her to get herself a Catholic husband. She

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Juls S. Abalosù, Philippines Loving life with Radio Maria On 1 July I made a special connection with Radio Maria. My friend called me up to join her on her Radio Maria program. It was an evening episode and I hurried to her not knowing what my role would be in the program, but it was an answer to my long wish to be on Radio Maria. It was my birthday wish, a way to help bring Christ into every home through Radio Maria. I have been sick from childhood and I was told that I was going to die early. I was prohibited from working, playing, getting married, or having children. I did not enjoy my time growing up, but what made my faith stronger was constant prayer and acts of love. These intensified when I started li stening to Radio Maria and co-hosted “Happy Hour with Ka lakbay: Flora, Bing, Lina, Babes, and Tess”. The 15 years I have spent with Radio Maria have been full of miracles. Being faithful to Mother Mary’s call brings forth a life of hope and Christ has touched and healed every part of my being. I was told that I would not to be able to walk because of my spinal cord. I needed a hip replacement, and I was told I would be bedridden for years if they were to operate on me. I did not undergo the operation because of my advanced years and the possible side-effects. Coupled with my heart disease, diabetes, creatinine, and low haemoglobin count it was likely that the pain I was experiencing would not be greatly reduced.’heart disease, diabetes, creatinine, and low haemoglobin count it was likely that the pain I was experiencing would not be greatly reduced. I silently bear the pain and suffering but am very hopeful with every sunrise and sunset of my life. I am so thankful for the graces and miracles I am permitted to participate in by

A RADIO OF HEALING

being at Radio Maria, not only listening to the programs but also hosting “Happy Hour” with my Kalakbay. After two months, I was able to walk. My great desire to serve through Radio Maria made me strong. Now I am sharing my love through that Radio Maria program, bringing Christ into people’s homes and learning spirituality in every program. Thanks to the gifts and blessings of God and his Mother Mary, with Radio Maria, working prolongs my life and strengthens me in my trials. I give thanks for the encouragement and love of Radio Maria’s staff and Kalakbay. “I am happy serving Radio Maria and bringing Christ into your home”.

Anonymous, France This is a testimonial of what happened in the family of one of my cousins, Judith, after I participated—through Radio Maria—in the Mass of 19 January 2017, presided by Fr. Jean-Michel Tour, during which there were prayers said for healing. In mid-January, I had learned that one of my cousin Judith’s sons—Henri, a young father about 30-years-old—had surgery for a growth on his tongue. The biopsy revealed cancer cells. A second operation was scheduled for 23 January. I immediately held Henri in my heart and had Masses said for him. On Thursday, 19 January, following an appointment that had just been cancelled, I decided to use the time to listen to Radio Maria. A Mass was announced during which people would pray especially for the sick, with intercessions for their healing. Since my appointment had been cancelled, I decided to participate, focusing on my cousin Henri, as well as his parents and grandparents who had not spoken to each other for a few years.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF HEALING

After communion, the priest directed that the sick who wanted to, should touch where they were suffering. So, I put my hand in my mouth to touch my tongue. I started to think the words of wisdom that the priest was saying and joined in praying for the people those words were being spoken for. At one point I heard: ‘The Lord comes to visit someone because of his mouth, his cheek. I don’t know if these are small things, or an infection, or cancer of the mouth. The Lord is coming to visit you now, in those areas.” As with the previous prayers, I joined in this one and, when I realized that I was touching my tongue, it was like a loud cry within me was unleashed: “It’s for Henri!” I was caught up in a great joy then and with intense gratitude I never stopped thanking God, saying over and over: “Yes, Lord. I believe that You are coming to heal Henri. I want Henri to be cured and I want the silence between his mother and grandparents to be cured too! Amen. Thank You, Lord!” As Mass was ending, I received a message from my cousin: “Henri has just had an X-ray taken. The cancer cells haven’t spread. Great relief!” The message was a wonderful confirmation for me that the Lord had worked in Henri. The following Monday, 23 January, was the second operation. To the doctors’ amazement, there were no more cancer cells in the tests. No need for radiation or chemotherapy! So, I shared with Judith what I had experienced directly through Radio Maria, telling her that this cancer of the tongue had immediately made me think about the closed relationship between her and her parents and she immediately agreed to make an inner journey for forgiveness. A year and a half after this happened, while calling my cousin for news about Henri, she first told me about her re-

lationship with her parents. She had made some attempts to restore communications with them, but without any success. Although the situation is still painful, she is now at peace, having done everything she could. As for Henri, he has to pass a check-up every month for a few more years. So far, the results are good. Thank You, Lord, for the wonders you have accomplished in this family through Radio Maria and all those who work there! Thank you for the strength of the prayers from listeners!

Anonymous, Germany Once a month, Radio Horeb broadcasts a Mass with prayers for healing. During one of those Masses, Fr. Richard Kocher quoted the act of abandonment to God by Don Dolindo (1882–1970): Surrendering yourself to Me does not mean to fret, to be upset, or to lose hope. Nor does it mean offering Me a worried prayer, asking Me to follow you and change your worry into prayer. Abandoning yourself means to placidly close the eyes of the soul, to turn away from thoughts of tribulation, and to put yourself in my care, because I am the only one who will let you find yourself, like children who have fallen asleep in their mother’s arms. In response to this broadcast, Fr. Kocher received the following letter from a doctor (a professor and medical director): I would like to thank you for your very important work. Especially in times of audio-visual garbage, Catholic-Christian content is necessary to advance evangelization. I would

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF HEALING

like to share the fulfilment of a prayer with you. At the beginning of the year I was diagnosed with cancer. I had surgery at the beginning of May. In that time of despair, I sought and found support in prayer. Along with your homily on Don Dolindo, the many examples from the New Testament (Mk 2:3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4) also gave me courage. My wife and I prayed for a positive medical report. Since we are both doctors, we prayed for a specific, concrete result and, in fact, yesterday I received the surgical report with exactly that positive diagnosis. I was speechless and full of gratitude. I have many questions: why me and not others who are much worse off? What would happen if we always prayed so intensely? Would the report have been worse without prayer? There are also the naysayersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; insinuations that it was just a coincidence. But for me, it was the fulfilment of a prayer.

Nelson Herrera, Santiago of Chile, Chile It was 13 October 1999. My wife Cristina and I received the terrible news that our three-and-a-half-year-old daughter Savka had been diagnosed with the most severe acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Faced with this pain and anguish, I, Nelson Herrera, a Chilean petty officer in the military police, found Radio Maria one day on a channel that had been experimentally broadcasting here in Santiago. I immediately recognized the Catholic music and desperately asked where the station was. The next day I went to the station on my service motorcycle, with great faith and hope that I would find relief and support to face all the pain I was feeling. They were surprised to see a policeman and thought I had come

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF HEALING

for an inspection, but I told them, “I am one of you and I need your support and prayers for my daughter.” Starting that day, the station’s director and all the volunteers who were then present entered into a pact of love and faith. They always remembered my daughter in prayer, especially during the Rosary and in the various programs then being broadcast. I embraced the great welcome and love they had shown me, I committed myself, as time permitted, to go and pray the Rosary—also when I was in uniform. This experience of pain and hope lasted two and a half years, praying to God and the Blessed Virgin for a miracle in the company of my brothers and sisters on the radio. As my daughter’s illness progressed, the doctors were amazed at her improvements because she had only been given a 25% chance of survival. There were also times when they thought she wouldn’t last the night and then they saw her eating the next day as if nothing were wrong. Even the medical staff believed that there was a higher power that was healing her. On one of those hopeless days, I went to the hospital accompanied by another colleague and was told that my daughter had no further hope of surviving. I left the hospital in tears. I went to one of the streets in Santiago called Manuel Antonio Matta Avenue. I parked my motorcycle and told my colleague that I didn’t want anything else from life. Then I put my hands in my jacket pocket and found a rosary. There on the street, I began to beg the Virgin to safeguard my daughter. How? With my whole heart and many tears, like a child not knowing what to do but hopeful in faith and prayer. After two hours I called the hospital and my wife told me that Savka didn’t have a fever anymore but was eating and happy.

In 2002 they did the last myelogram. They discovered that she no longer had leukaemia in her blood. The doctors couldn’t explain how this had happened because that disease had led to the death of many other children. Thanks to the love and support I found at Radio Maria, fifteen years has already passed since my daughter’s great miracle. They say it could be the first radio miracle here in Chile. My daughter Savka is now twenty-one and in a very good state of health. She is also in her third year in the gendarmerie academy and an official candidate to become, if God so wills it, an excellent member of the military police.

Gladys Leticia Granda, Ecuador I, Gladys Leticia Granda Alvear, wish to share with you a miracle that has been worked in me through listening to and visiting the chapel of Radio Maria. Nowadays, that biblical verse “Ask and it will be given unto you” always echoes through my life. I am a Catholic. In the mornings I would always entrust myself to God and the Virgin Mary so that she would place her mantle over my house, my children, my family, my country, and the world, and so that all the activities I engaged in throughout the day would be done according to God’s will. Listening to Radio Maria has helped me through a recovery for which I publicly thank God and the Virgin Mary. Four years ago, in 2014, I had such severe back pain that I couldn’t do things such as sitting, squatting, going up or down stairs, or even dressing. Everything was very difficult. I rarely listened to Radio Maria. Every time I wanted to go visit the station, something happened that prevented me from

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF HEALING

doing so and getting to know that place. It was three o’clock on a Thursday afternoon in June of 2015 when I was finally able to visit the station. I went in. A very kind lady invited me to go to the chapel. I found a group of ladies praying. I knelt down with great difficulty and I said to the Blessed Sacrament exposed on the altar, “Thank you for bringing me here. At that moment, I felt peace, tranquillity, joy, and excitement for being in that place that I had so longed to visit. For a moment, the pain in my spine disappeared. I prayed to God to grant me physical, spiritual, and mental health. I made a promise that from that moment I would continue to listen to the radio and that on Thursday I would always attend Holy Hour. Because of the disease in my spinal column, I was being treated by specialists. I wasn’t seeing any improvement after test upon test and MRIs. Each time it seemed that the disease was progressing. My personal doctor and the one from Health Services told me that I would have to have surgery while there was still time, otherwise the situation would get worse. The operation was inevitable. The diagnosis was a severe spinal cord injury between the fourth and fifth dorsal vertebrae. Every time the doctors told me about the operation, I rejected the idea in my mind and told myself that God, with his infinite power, wisdom, and love, and the Virgin Mary, who is the Mother of Jesus and our Mother, would heal me without having to undergo surgery. I continued my visits and check-ups with the doctors for a year. I would go back to my house with the medicines and a sheet listing the therapies I had to do. My condition progressed. However, praying and listening to Radio Maria gave me hope and once a week, as I had promised, I went to the station’s chapel.

The situation was complicated because the pain was getting stronger. I felt my health deteriorating over time. In order to walk I had to wear a belt that eased the pain in my spine a bit. The doctor had warned me not to do this because it would have consequences for the other organs in my body and then have a worse effect on my health. One Saturday, I went to another specialist doctor in the city of Otavalo in the province of Imbabura in the north of Ecuador. He examined me and looked at my x-rays/medical reports. He thought it was not a case for operation. It was nice to hear those words after so long. The treatment I underwent with him improved my health in a short time. The pain in my spine disappeared little by little. The following Thursday, I went to the station chapel. I attended Mass and holy hour. I thanked God and the Virgin because I felt better and my pain was almost gone. A week later I went back to the doctor’s office to continue the treatment. Surprised, he asked me what I had done because my spine was in such good condition. For a moment I was afraid of the question. He told me, “If you are a believer, this is a miracle. Your spine is normal; there’s nothing wrong with it.” I told him that I was a believer and that God and the Virgin had healed me. Now I can do everything normally, like before. My husband and family are witnesses to this. I told several people about it. I thank God and Radio Maria because listening every day helps me have more trust in God and in the Virgin Mary. I can say that miracles exist and that I am proof of them.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF HEALING

Ramón Rodríguez , Luque, Paraguay. Two years ago, I stopped drinking. Two years ago, I stopped drinking with the help of God and Radio Maria. I am a man of little faith but my wife has always prayed. I used to drink a lot and then, two years ago, I stopped drinking and started writing songs for God. Radio Maria teaches you. I always tell people to listen so that they can learn. Many times, I didn’t want to pray, I didn’t know how to pray. I learned from Radio Maria. I learned courage; I learned to recover my faith; I learned to believe again. It feels like being reborn thanks be to God and thanks to Radio Maria. This is very important and I am happy.

Mrs. Rösch, Austria Sleep disorders have disappeared since listening to Radio Maria I have always had serious sleep disorders. Since October I have been leaving Radio Maria on all night at a very low volume. It enters so deeply into the subconscious that, since then, I have been sleeping very well. It calms me so much and all my fears and worries disappear. I feel carried away by sleep. Even while I’m sleeping, I feel that there is a good atmosphere around me.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Maria, Vienna - Freed from pain A few years ago, I had to have major surgery in Innsbruck. There I discovered Radio Maria. After my surgery I listened to Radio Maria all night on my headset and the tender melodies freed me from all pain. I would like to thank you all for that.

Mrs. Anna Maria, Austria Radio Maria has helped more than all the doctors combined During Lent, my husband was in the hospital for a week. He found Radio Maria by chance and, throughout the week, kept tuned in 24 hours a day. He said it helped him a lot. He also told the psychologist the same last week. Radio Maria has helped him more than all the other doctors combined. He says that it is very relaxing and offers lots of hope. They broadcast spiritual exercises that have helped him very much. I don’t want to continue living as we have for the past 20 years. It was a very superficial coexistence with swearing and blasphemy. It was very bad. Since his return from the hospital, I have gained much hope.

A RADIO OF HEALING

she was unable to rest in the hospital. There was almost no hope that we could care for her at home. For the first few days she couldn’t rest. One night, when it was time to go to sleep, I was listening to evening prayer with the family of listeners on Radio Maria. I called in and asked the priest to pray for this intention. The priest said a prayer of liberation. From that night on, my aunt has been free from the demonic torment that caused her so much anxiety and made her cry out at night.

Christa, Austria Radio Maria helps recharge after burning out For years, I’ve been legally disabled. I had a nervous breakdown, was burned out and exhausted. Only Radio Maria has helped me get back on my feet.

Mrs. Heidi, Austria Prayer for Deliverance I am caring for my 90-year-old aunt. She has been discharged from the hospital and needs care. Day or night,

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

A RADIO OF HEALING

“My Lord and my God!” Jn 20:28

With its programming, Radio Maria calls people to conversion so that they can walk in the light of God and live in peace. Each Radio Maria works on creating programs that are a unique invitation for each creature to return to the Creator. This is the only way to re-establish true peace on earth and to allow the kingdom of God to spread throughout the world "for behold, the kingdom of God is among you." Lk 17:21

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Valery Lewandowski, Kiev, Ukraine My name is Valery and I live in Kiev. I would like to share the story of my conversion to the Lord. The first time I met God was through Radio Maria, which I heard by accident. I had been invited to go on their bus pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima in Dovbysh. It was a miracle for me because my aunt, who always visited that Basilica and who had cared for my dad when he was sick, was buried in that town. I would finally be able to visit her grave. I had my doubts if they would take me on the pilgrimage because I was not a church-goer. However, not only did they take me on the trip but also, during the pilgrimage, I experienced true Christian communication and prayer. I visited my aunt’s grave and made an amazing pilgrimage. When I returned home, I told my ailing dad about the pilgrimage and about my feelings. A week later, my father died peacefully. From that time on, I always listen to Radio Maria. I now go to church regularly, I went for confession and I have received Holy Communion. I love you and live with you!

Maurice, 41 years old, Belgium Dear Radio Maria, I want to thank you with my whole heart. For me, there is only one kind of media: Radio Maria. Its hopeful message is uplifting and there is no advertising. Sadly, I have a chronic illness, but thanks to you, I can end my evenings with the “Evening Catechism” program that helps me to calm down and go to sleep. I grew up without any re-

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

ligious education, but wisdom seems to come with age. Last spring, I was baptized, together with my young son. I thank you very much and I offer my prayers.

Ararat Manukyan, Ararat penitentiary, Armenia I am a prisoner in the Ararat penitentiary. I listened to your radio for the first time when, as usual, I was changing channels. I stopped on your channel where Father Anton was speaking. It is now almost two years that I have been listening and a lot has changed in me due to your radio. My faith had weakened very much but, thanks to your radio, it has been restored. I listen every day and look forward to your night prayers and definitely pray. There have been days when I did not sleep because I am listening to you and praying with you to restore my faith. Today, we have gone so far away from God and we need programs like yours that will restore our faith. It is already two years that I have been living according to the commandments. This is due to your radio programs. Also, last December I asked for Baptism and was baptized in prison.

Vesna Gatara, Wojwodina, Serbia Throughout my life, I wasn’t just an atheist, but a vocal opponent of the Church, claiming that it was the opiate of the masses and a big fraud. I was astonished by how many people were so deluded by it. Then, about ten years ago, I met a woman with whom I quickly became friends and I

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

started on a path to join the Jehovah’s Witnesses. I spent six years with that organization and learned a lot of theory, but there were no traces of love. At the age of 56, I started attending catechesis classes for adults in the Catholic Church and that is where I first heard about Radio Maria. I started listening to some of the shows out of curiosity, which gave me new life, and, later on, I followed all its programming. Through Radio Maria I have encountered wonderful spiritual music that has had a great effect on me, drawing me closer and closer to Jesus. All the shows were something new to me, lighting my path and taking me deeper in faith. They awoke in me, not just faith in God, but enormous love and great confidence in him. I started loving Jesus more and more. I was grateful, trusting him and placing all my problems in his hands. A new, different life started for me that replaced my old one seamlessly. My life for Jesus began, living for his Word and Love. I gave him all my time and thoughts. I started volunteering at Radio Maria, and the atmosphere that was present there, the people I encountered, just made my love and confidence in God that much stronger. I started to take part in Radio Maria’s charitable outreach and with the “Bethlehem” Association. I took part in the “40 days for life” initiative. I began looking at people with different eyes. Everything in my life has changed in the last four years and I have become a different person thanks to Radio Maria and its programming. I am still listening to it, and experiencing it in new, deeper ways. It still changes me, it still makes my love and faith deeper, and the music remains with me even when I am not able to listen. Radio Maria changed me and my life. It’s the only radio

station I listen to, television is not interesting anymore. I couldn’t imagine my life without Radio Maria anymore. Thank you!

Stela Vojković, Subotica, Serbia Radio Maria changed my life In 2007, after a turbulent time growing up, I found out about Radio Maria from a neighbor. Unfortunately, after multiple attempts, I wasn’t able to capture the signal clearly. The radio station had a lot of static and it just wasn’t possible to understand anything. I gave up on further attempts. I was ill. I had a psychiatric condition. My mother was dying and, since my sister didn’t accept me with my illness, I had to take care of our sick mother. It was even harder because she wouldn’t allow me to call a priest to bring the Sacraments to our mother. It was then that I gave everything up to God through the intercession of Mother Mary. With great difficulties and anxiety, I took care of my mother, in deprivation without enough food or sleep. I felt so alone and abandoned. After my mother’s death, I left the family house and found a small apartment. I got a radio again and found Radio Maria. The first show I listened to was the prayer intentions. I asked the Radio Maria listeners to pray for me. It was a glimpse of hope for me. By listening to Radio Maria, especially to the director at the time, Fr. Tadej, I realized that I knew very little about Christianity. By listening to Radio Maria, particularly the show “The Gospel Reading of the Day”, I got to know Christ’s Gospel bit by bit, and my faith grew deeper. The spiritual music that I listened to day and night

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

meant a lot too, as did all the prayer shows. At the time, I wasn’t married and time was passing. I felt even lonelier because I barely communicated with my family. An unfortunate event happened: the house of one of my neighbors burnt down. By God’s providence, however, this tragedy became the path to my future husband—the neighbor’s son. Through Radio Maria, I was able to help this unfortunate family and I met Andrej, my husband. However, he was far from an ideal husband. He didn’t have a job and was addicted to alcohol. Despite everything I kept my faith. I recommended my husband and our entire situation to the prayer intentions of Radio Maria every day. Soon he got a permanent job and the situation in our house and our lives began to change. Many shows on Radio Maria such as the one for the sick, “The Visitation of Brothers and Sisters”, the daily catechesis, and others have helped me to grow stronger in my faith and to endure all of life’s difficulties. I have met many wonderful people who have helped me a lot through Radio Maria. These are just short excerpts out of my life’s novel, titled: How to Become and Remain a Good Person and a Good Christian with Radio Maria.

dye, in St. Agnes Parish. Radio Maria has been a true manifestation of a wonderful work in my life. It was a sad moment when my husband died. It was very painful and it happened suddenly. Many people consoled me and Radio Maria did everything. It was my main source of consolation. I praised the programs that I listened to every day, which were well publicized. When my husband was still alive, I had much less time to listen to the radio and so I didn’t know many programs. Now, Radio Maria has become so much a part of my life that I encourage my friends, Catholics and non-Catholics to listen to it. I convinced Mrs. Kakooza, one of my closest friends, who belonged to a Protestant Church, to listen to the radio. When Mrs. Kakooza also lost her husband, Radio Maria became a source of consolation for her too and we listened to it together every day. Mrs. Kakooza then converted to the Catholic Church and she is now in the Legion of Mary Apostolate. This Radio brings the marginalized, the sick, and the depressed back to life. It prepares people for all aspects of life, including family and marriage. It is for this reason that there is a need to support the radio in all forms. Prayer is key and that financial support is also an aspect that furthers the smooth running of the radio, since it is not commercial. It’s all about understanding the values of the radio and our individual responsibility. Maintaining Radio Maria is a collective responsibility and should be voluntary. I have also been supported financially by Caritas to pay off my school fees, so I had the same courage to support others, especially Radio Maria, with the little I have. There are times when we are unable to make ends meet

Kasule Maria Justine Nakiganda, Makindye, Uganda My name is Kasule Maria Justine Nakiganda and my story with Radio Maria is very astonishing and very interesting. This radio, I must say, is a gift that was given to us free of charge because the services it offers are really aimed at nourishing us both physically and spiritually. I live in Makin-

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

and we struggle to survive, but when God has provided, then we have to thank him for his providence and look to supporting his work too.

a Radio Maria Malawi listener and enjoyed its various programs and prayers. That was how he got the message of conversion! Meet Steven, a seminarian who converted from Islam to Catholicism. He is now a proud Catholic and the joyful and humble servant of the Virgin Mary because of Radio Maria Malawi. Steven is one of the six children of the Muslim family of Mr. and Mrs. Kassim from Machinga in the southern part of Malawi, an area where Radio Maria has wide coverage. He was born and attended primary school in Machinga. Upon completing his secondary school education, he decided to join the Catholic Church, something he did against the wishes of his parents and relatives. In July of 2012, Steven received the sacrament of Confirmation. Since then he has been a faithful listener of Radio Maria, deciding to become involved in its activities as a volunteer. He joined Radio Maria Malawi in 2013 and since then has volunteered and has served our Mother Mary as an announcer and a producer. While volunteering at Radio Maria Malawi, he started to feel a call to the priesthood and participated in a one-year spiritual formation at Kasina Spiritual Formation Centre in Dedza. That place was established by the Catholic Bishops to help young men prepare to enter the Major Seminary of Saint Anthony, popularly known as Kachebere, in Mchinji. Steven is now at Kachebere Major Seminary pursuing studies for the priesthood. On Saturday, 1 April 2017, Steven put on a cassock for the first time. He comes from the small christian community of Saint Martin in Nsanama Parish of the Mangochi Diocese. He still enjoys his relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary as a volunteer for Radio Maria Malawi. May God help him to realize his dream of becoming a priest!

Josephat Lucas from Mwananyamala, Tanzania I never used to listen to Radio Maria in the past. One day, I was just changing channels, searching for any station that I could listen to at that moment. When I got to the Radio Maria Tanzania frequency, I started wondering, because I had never heard a Catholic station like it before. So, I decided to keep on listening to it and became really impressed as I heard many lessons that aimed at changing people’s lives, helping them to attain holiness and reach heaven at the end of their lives. I especially like a program called “Faith Questions”. From it, I have learned many Catholic lessons. For instance, how to answer questions from people about statues and stories of worship. I am now able to answer people regarding different faith matters. Radio Maria Tanzania has helped me to learn a lot of things.

Stevan Kassim, Machinga, Malawi From Islam to Catholicism and then the seminary: On the path to the priesthood thanks to Radio Maria Malawi. It was May 1989. There was a very young man who might not have had a chance to listen to the Holy Father’s homily, but the Holy Spirit saw that it happened, through the works of the Virgin Mary and her Radio Maria. That young man was

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Lea Tomka, Hungary I got acquainted with Radio Maria in 2006, just when the station was beginning to broadcast. While I was looked for something interesting on the radio, I found Radio Maria by chance. Fr. Jenő Gaál SVD, a Divine Word missionary, was speaking, teaching on Radio Maria. My spirit was truly nourished by his teaching and I found myself very spiritually uplifted. Before that experience I was not a religious person, I was only trying to find my way. After listening to him I felt that I had to immediately write to the head of Radio Maria in order to get to know the name of the priest who was speaking. Radio Maria’s president, Tomás Szabó was really kind. He gave me the e-mail address of Fr. Jenő Gaál and in this way we began to correspond with one another. It was the beginning of my conversion and my relationship with Radio Maria. In spite of the fact that Fr. Jenő was 85 years old, he sent very thought-provoking letters, which initiated a major life-changing experience for me, very different from it was before. I was very happy to receive his letters and answered them very quickly. He kept after me until I participated in a Cursillo retreat. I wasn’t interested in Cursillo or any spiritual exercise at all. What would I do among so many people I didn’t know? But Fr. Jenő didn’t give up on me. One year later, in 2007 during Advent, I participated in a women’s Cursillo weekend in Tihany. I spent four nice days there. I made very good friends with some women my own age. Time passed and, as we became mothers, we started to think and talk about questions concerning faith: how could we make it consistent with our everyday lives? with motherhood?

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

The program director of Radio Maria invited us to create a program about these issues. That is how our “Mammy’s Club” program started ten years ago in which several mothers, babies, and little children participate. In this way, Radio Maria helps us and other mothers to think about our faith, to strengthen each other’s faith, and to cope with the problems of motherhood.

Zoja Markovich, Skopje, Macedonia I heard Radio Maria for the first time in the beginning of 2016. Monsignor Antun Cirimotich, the director at the time, recommended it to me. I started listening and, from the very start, I liked the programming. I listened to the radio every day, always looking for free moments when I could listen. At that time, I also started to pray the Rosary with Our Lady from home, together with all the people who were praying along with the radio. began listening to the podcasts of previously recorded programmes every day and was writing down in a notebook everything that I heard. After four months of following the station daily, I was invited to visit Radio Maria. I was introduced to the people who were preparing the programs, people who were involved in different broadcasts, and people who regularly prayed on the radio. After being introduced, I was invited to join as a volunteer on one of the station’s programs. I decided to take part in morning prayer— praying the Rosary with Our Lady. So, on the 3rd of July, I started. I was very happy; the Rosary was always very meaningful for me. Praying the Rosary gave me new life. In the mornings I would get up early and wait impatiently until it was tim to go

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

to the station. Because of my experience, I recommended that my close friends and relatives listen to the Radio. Some of them started listening to it and they also began to enjoy it very much. They were older people, who found the programme content very uplifting as well as formative for their faith. Later, I was participating more at the station, starting with small regular audio clips of “Called to Holiness” and another short programme, which is still aired once a week, titled “Meditation”. And now, after two years, I am still recommending Radio Maria to many other people. I also invite them to pray and participate with me as part of my morning show. Radio Maria can change anyone’s life. Radio Maria is for all people of all ages, nationalities, and even all religions. It unites us, especially if we are ready to give our free time to participate, directly or as listeners. May God bless all those who contribute to advancing the Radio Maria Project. Our Blessed Lady, is with us daily and with her maternal love and gentleness, she guides us, changing us and giving us peace. She can work miracles in every person’s life, regardless of whether that person is young or old. She works miracles in the lives of many sick and lonely people. COME AND EXPERIENCE THIS BLESSING WHICH IS A GIFT FROM HEAVEN!

lously she can read, write, and weave small mats. For the rest of her life, she will never forget two special events: when His Excellency Monsignor Smaragde Mbonyintege, Bishop of Kabgayi, visited her family and the first time she listened to Radio Maria Rwanda. Hagenimana Agathe’s mother, Kubwimana Primitiva, says that she welcomed the first of her children as a gift from God. When her little girl was born, everyone including her own family, prevented her from breastfeeding, trying to convince her that she’d given birth to an animal. But she was able to overcome their hatred and isolation by loving her daughter deeply. Her name, HAGENIMANA means “God provides for everything”. Hagenimana Agathe often listens to Radio Maria Rwanda as she is unable to leave her bed. She prays the Rosary and all the prayers along with the radio. She follows the Mass and all the stations’ programming because she is at home alone when her mother and brother are busy working in the fields. She is a faithful listener. Listening to Radio Maria Rwanda, she is no longer isolated but always feels in contact with God and under the maternal protection of the Virgin Mary. Through the many testimonies she has heard, she has found strength of soul. Moreover, Radio Maria Rwanda has made her famous! She does not know exactly how many friends she has made thanks to Radio Maria. She has a certain number of friends whom she speaks with on the phone, others call her to listen to her story or to pray with her, especially those who are sick or others who are confined to bed. Many people visit her to satisfy their curiosity…she is a missionary from her own home. In recognition, Agathe supports Radio Maria Rwanda every month and participates in special campaigns such as

Hagenimana Agathe, Rwanda Hagenimana Agathe was born disabled, without the use of her upper or lower limbs. For thirty years she was unable to sit up; she always had to lie on her bed. To eat, drink, and make calls, she could only use her tongue and teeth. Miracu-

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

the Month of Solidarity and the Mariathon thanks to the donations she receives from people of good will during their visits or from those who have simply heard her witness. Radio Maria is her family. Her little radio is always beside her. Hagenimana Agathe lives in central Jandari, part of the parish of Kabacuzi, which is in the Diocese of Kabgayi. She is grateful to the priests who accompany her and bring her the Sacraments. She also expresses her immense gratitude to Radio Maria Rwanda, which has pulled her out of isolation and which gives her such spiritual support. May God protect and bless her!

through the care of one of the sisters who attends them. Charles Gaétan was born in 1963. He lived in Uganda as a refugee. One day, he decided to return to Rwanda. On foot, it took six months for him to make it back, encountering scores of difficulties on the way home. Having no one to care for him, he wandered the streets of the country for three months until the police targeted him. After he fortuitously found himself at the IAC, he embraced the Catholic faith, even though he had been baptized Protestant in Uganda. His conversion came from listening regularly to Radio Maria Rwanda. His radio gave him back the joy of living. ‘As to my education, I had seven years of primary school in Uganda’, he says. ‘Radio Maria’s teachings have helped me regain my peace of heart. For spiritual care, the Center is regularly visited by priests who bring us the Sacraments. I find great support in the prayers we say in our chapel. I have gone from death to life thanks to the compassion here at the IAC and thanks to Radio Maria.

“Friends of the Poor”, Gitikinyoni, Rwanda The elderly who live with the Inshuti z’Abakene Sisters (Friends of the Poor) express their esteem for Radio Maria Rwanda. Some of them have families who have not been able to care for themselves and they have been taken in by the sisters’ Inshuti z’Abakene Center (IAC), which is located in Gitikinyoni. Others no longer have families, including officials who have come to spend their last days at IAC. Along with spiritual accompaniment, the Center provides various therapies and health care to this community, which currently includes 17 people: 12 women and 5 men. Radio Maria Rwanda also accompanies them in their daily activities. When Radio Maria visited this community, everyone showed the joy that reflects their intimate bond with the station. Thanks to its programs, those living at the IAC have been able to resume their practice of prayer and saying the Rosary together. They get up early in the morning to participate in the broadcast of the Mass. They can even receive communion

Marguerite Nyirakarasi, Kibuye, Rwanda Marguerite is around 65 years old. She was born in Kibuye, in the west of the country. She married a man from Kingogo in the central north. Her husband died before he could be baptized. She was left alone with their children who all sadly died too. She became baptized and was introduced to the IAC by the St. Vincent de Paul Community. ‘At the Center’, she says, ‘I got a radio to follow along with Radio Maria. At first, I was always anxious and filled with anger such that no one had the courage to approach me. Little by little, my character has changed and I currently sha-

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

re a room with two other elderly ladies who arrived after me.’ ‘At the Center, thanks to listening to Radio Maria, I have learned a lot. Despite the chronic illness I suffer from, I have accepted my situation.’ Marguerite also talked about her healing experience, answering several question: What, for you, was the sign that you experienced healing in your behavior? I am filled with joy now and I also take care of my fellow elderly community members, even if it causes me to suffer. Do you know other people in the Center who have also changed inwardly thanks to Radio Maria? Yes, along with the other elderly here, we meet regularly to pray. When I feel well enough, I pray with the others in the chapel. With Radio Maria, we can also participate in Mass from a distance. In what way are you particularly grateful to the Inshuti z’Abakene Sisters who take care of you? Here it is easy to wash yourself to take care of one’s personal hygiene. The life of prayer alternates with small jobs that each person does according to their abilities.

They feel God’s presence in their midst and they stay in a good mood. In Gitikinyoni—which literally means “the tree of birds”—the elderly have truly found a place where they can hope for the future. Radio Maria Rwanda, for its part, has been able to help them maintain contact with the external world and its effects of inner healing have become apparent.

We asked Sr. Christine to share how she sees the work of the ‘Friends of the Poor’ Sisters in her own words. We help our elderly stay in touch with God. With their small radios given to us by Radio Maria Rwanda, they follow the programs and love them for that reason. We notice a gradual transformation in their character, which allows them to live in harmony with one another. As the years go by, they improve visibly. We pray the Rosary together and follow the Mass over the airwaves or we assist in the house when there is a priest.

Burimi, Prizren, Kosovo I am Burimi from Prizren (*His name has been changed) and am an Albanian who was raised Muslim. Through Radio Maria Kosovo I have discovered a new world, the faith of our ancestors, Christianity. Now I no longer feel separated because it has brought me to the light of Jesus Christ. To all those who work in this Radio, may God help and reward you. The voice of God, of the Catholic Church, and the faith of our ancestors for two thousand years resonates through you. May God help you and reward you with every good thing. How long have you been listening to and following Radio Maria Kosovo? Not for long. A friend of mine suggested the station to me. It has been true gift in my life, helping me find my way. I hope to continue my search for our “ancient faith”, which is Christianity. What does Radio Maria Kosovo mean to you? It is hard to express in a few words. Radio Maria Kosovo means a door, a window, a new source, a breath of fresh air. Only now do I somehow understand what it means to be a Christian, to believe, to love, to live and to bear witness to the new life that is given to us by God. From afar I can see a light that envelops me and guides me along new paths…

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

What is your experience with Radio Maria Kosovo and what message would you like to share? It is a good experience, which gives me hope and helps me to better understand myself, my past and present life. I would suggest to my friends and acquaintances that they listen to Radio Maria Kosovo because it is a different station from the others: it brings a message of light and hope not only to us, but also to the whole world.

C: I’m happy. I’m calling from Reggio Emilia and I’m so happy because I’ve called Radio Maria for 5 or 6 years and I’ve never been able to talk to you. RMI: Well, welcome! Tell us about yourself! C: I was born in Morocco but I converted to Jesus! Jesus is everything. Look, I adore Jesus and Mary and I’m excited to die, it’s crazy, crazy… RMI: How did you meet the Lord Jesus? What have you discovered with Jesus and Mary? C: Oh…He entered my soul because it was a feast day in honor of Mary and they were passing through the street and praying with Mary. RMI: You mean a procession with a statue of Our Lady? C: Yes! And ever since that day, Jesus has entered my soul; He has entered my soul! RMI: Thank you…not even we Catholics use these expressions any more, to say that Jesus has entered our soul. C: Stand before him. I hope He will help the whole world and especially those who do not understand his teachings. And Radio Maria is all about this! You do this in people’s homes! RMI: Thank you, Farah. C: Thank you sincerely. Thank you. You are a force. May God bless you! RMI: And may He bless you 10 times more. May the Lord always help your family. C: Yes, God is helping the world! RMI: This is a beautiful witness. Think of this Moroccan woman who was converted just at the moment that a statue of Our Lady passed by in procession. We have to rediscover these processions.

Anonymous, Middle East A person contacted us from a Middle Eastern country via Messenger and then Whatsapp on the number we use for live programs. He wanted to convert, with his whole family, to Christianity. According to his testimony, listening to Radio Mariam, he discovered the beauty of Our Lord Jesus Christ and was struck by the importance of love in Christianity, especially towards our brothers and sisters. Radio Mariam communicated with him and put him in contact with a priest in his country who he can refer to as he begins his journey in knowing Christ.

Anonymous, Reggio Emilia, Italy Phone call testimonial of the conversion of an Islamic Moroccan listener, who is now Catholic. Caller: Hello? Radio Maria Italy: Hello. What’s your name? C: I’m Farah (*her name has been changed.) RMI: How are you doing? Where are you calling from?

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Peter Schilling, Munich, Germany The singer-songerwriter Peter Schilling is well-known for his song “Major Tom”, which was at the top of the charts in Germany, Austria, the United States, and Japan in the early 80’s. After burning out and suffering various setbacks in his personal destiny, he was reorganizing his life. One night in 2005, he was fiddling with the tuner on his radio when he suddenly heard sacred choir music in his apartment. Initially he was surprised and wondered what radio station it might be. Then, when Fr. Buob started a talk, he suddenly felt calm and listened to the words, which touched him deeply. It was as if someone were continuing his therapy, which he had undergone after his burnout, and accompanying him back to God at the same time. “Where has my faith gone? Why did I leave God behind in my life’s path?” he asked himself that night. From that evening on, Radio Horeb has helped him lead a new life with God and in his faith. Since then, his life has changed for the better. Incredible things have happened to him in which he has been able to experience God’s closeness and which have filled him with deep gratitude. Today he says that Radio Horeb has reconfirmed him in spirit and in faith and carries him forward like no other station would have been able to. Since then, Radio Horeb has become one of his absolute favorites, accompanying him continuously.

Josué Romero, Culiacán, Mexico Two years ago, Josué Romero, a young architect, joined Radio Maria in Culiacán, Sinaloa as a volunteer at the recep-

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

tion desk where he answers phone calls and encourages those in need. What makes this young man so special is that, since he left his career as an architect, his whole life has changed. “I lost my sight, but I gained another life, I saw for twenty-two years of my life…but now I’m blind and have been living this wonderful life for almost seven years already. It was by God’s grace and mercy that I found the strength I needed to move forward.” Living in an environment of illegal activities and bad company, Josué was addicted to drugs and alcohol for eleven years, until an overdose caused him to lose his sight. That experience led him to take a different approach to life, beginning one in service of others. His volunteer work is a great example for his colleagues and the listeners who visit the studios. He also hosts a regular programme bringing much positive consolation to listeners. This nourishment in his soul had brought him to the decision to pursue a career in psychology. “I need to be better prepared to accompany people and to develop professionally and spiritually in my life. Now I am happier because I know myself better, all thanks to Radio Maria.”

Lesbia Inés Cubas de Castillo, Panama. I am Mrs. Lesbia Inés Cubas de Castillo and I am 61 years old. When I was 48 years old, I fell seriously ill. One day, when I was alone, I turned on the radio and started looking for a station and encountered Radio Maria. I listened to the Rosary and left the radio tuned to the station. Since that day,

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

Radio Maria has been my partner; I listen to it all day long. During my illness, Radio Maria was my guide. It allowed me to meet Jesus and the Virgin Mary. My health was getting worse every day. I couldn’t stand on my own. My husband had to help me because I couldn’t walk and he had to support me. I went to several specialists, but for two years there was no improvement. I always listened to Radio Maria, however. When I suffered a bout of pain, I prayed the Rosary at the different times it was broadcast and, in doing so, I felt so much peace. I decided not to go to the doctors anymore and to stop taking medication because I wasn’t seeing any improvement. But I felt that, listening to the catechesis, the Mass, the prayer hours, and Holy Hour on Thursdays, strengthened me every day. Through Radio Maria, I learned to pray the Rosary. I learned to pray and to look for the path to God. Since I had not received all the Sacraments, just the sacrament of Baptism, I began to worry about receiving them. In my most difficult moments, I only asked God to allow me to receive the Sacraments. As time went on, I improved little by little. I began to walk and my pain diminished. I went to Church whenever I could, but I felt sad because I couldn’t receive communion. I visited Jesus in his Real Presence in the tabernacle whenever I could and, one day, I spoke with my husband and asked him to help me receive the Sacraments that I had missed and to marry me in the Church. We married with God’s blessing and today we are a family, with God as our center. We have tried to lead our whole family to the faith. My husband also learned to pray the Rosary. In my house we only listen to Radio Maria. We go to Mass on Sundays and, thank God, my illness is disappearing.

Every day I ask God to be his instrument, so that his will can be accomplished, not mine. I have learned this thanks to all the programs on Radio Maria, my faithful companion. When my husband saw that I was listening to Radio Maria day and night, he bought me a battery-powered radio. One day the radio went out and I asked my husband if he could check what was happening. He said, “The radio is a year old and the batteries have lasted the entire year! Only God could make that happen!” Today I am a catechist and I try to be at the service of the house of God, our Church. I do not take any medication: prayers and the Rosary are my medicine. I give thanks to Radio Maria, God’s instrument that reaches thousands of people like me, that guides us and teaches us how to communicate with God and our heavenly Mother.

Anonymous, Spain Radio Maria, the strength of an almost forgotten hope No matter where lose our way or allow ourselves be distracted by the voice of the world, the Virgin Mary always finds the small space in which to bring light into the night of our loneliness. In one of my many journeys down lonely roads, after almost 30 years away from the Church, after years of dissatisfaction, unhappiness, illness, and a heart filled with anger and sadness, a voice “slipped” into the silence of my car. It was the voice of a priest on Radio Maria… As we age, life inexorably confronts us with the reality of our many mistakes and disappointments. In my fifties, I found myself childless, with a failed marriage, my health

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

that was failing, a profession whose principles seemed to matter less than selfish interests, etc. Yet, in those moments, despite episodes of depression and discouragement, there was still a deep desire to continue to seek a meaning for everything, a “something” that would fill the deep void that reigned in my life. For that reason, I wound up looking for the meaning to all this in New Age environments, a substitute for the Truth that has become very widespread in our times. It was noon on a bright April morning in 2009 as I was driving through one of the half-empty areas of central Spain when a voice talking about angels “slipped” onto my car radio. But this time, the angels weren’t amulets to protect doors or decorate rooms. Their mission, the voice said, was “to praise and give glory to God”. That statement was the lightning bolt that illuminated the darkness that my heart had spent all my life exploring aimlessly. It planted me in front of the true reason for my existence. What can I say about what I experienced? Surprise, amazement, emotion … surprise that something so true had come to me through a radio station called Radio Maria – that I knew little about and had never been interested in and surprise – that what I was listening to had touched something inside of me that I had been looking for all my life. From that day on, my path has been accompanied by the Radio Maria family. Sometimes as a listener, sometimes as a volunteer, and now as a dedicated volunteer (formichina, little ant). I have always felt at home and well received as a member of a family who had left her home in search of adventures in distant lands; who was long awaited and has finally returned. I offer wholehearted thanks to Radio Maria and to all those who make up this great family in the world as the force of

Hope that is always ancient and always new. Blessed by the Lord, God of the universe, who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and who has given us a MOTHER!

Juana de Vega, Madrid, Spain A few years ago, I had a big setback in my life. My marriage, which I had given my life to, broke down. My husband was fond of me, but he had other plans for his life. I asked him for time and did my best, hoping it would just be a temporary crisis … but nothing. I didn’t feel far from the Church. I even volunteered as a catechist for First Communion, but I had gone without the Sacraments for years. I felt hypocritical every Sunday at Mass: I was afraid of my son’s question: “Mom, why don’t you ever receive Holy Communion?” Radio Maria had already snuck into my life. With kids in my car, the radio was talking about Noah’s ark and I wondered: “Is this going to be a Protestant program?” The crucial moment came one night. My son was already asleep and I could finally rest. I looked at the radio and smiled ironically: “At least I don’t have to listen to sports broadcasts. I’ll put Radio Maria on.” And I heard these words: “He is the one who seeks us before we seek him … he comes to meet you in whatever situation you find yourself in, in grace or in sin … Jesus comes to meet you today, and he does it because he loves you …” I kept listening. it was a shock that “woke me up”. I stayed still during that meditation on the spiritual exercises that Radio Maria offers during Lent. If someone had seen me at that moment, I would have seemed a silent and calm

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

person. Instead, a fire had caught on inside of me. I didn’t see the Lord, but I could see that he was there, by my side, supporting me. That he hadn’t ever stopped being there, even though I was looking the other way. In my soul, I felt enormous gratitude and serenity, mixed with an immense shame. I couldn’t wait. I prayed and felt the urge to find grace. In a small confession chapel, before Christ on the cross, I couldn’t stop crying. I went back to listen to those exercises. They were the first CD I asked the radio for. It was a month and a half ago and I was changed. It was as if I had just fallen in love. With that feeling of having returned home while at the same time of entering a new and unexpected place. I am always grateful to the Lord. In the daily Eucharist, I am moved at every consecration. I have to keep myself from shouting: “Thank you, Jesus for being with us!” Finally, I went from believing it to living it. I see life as an opportunity to learn the way to heaven, to prepare ourselves to be in his presence forever. My God, thank you for choosing Radio Maria as the means to give me back my life. God never abandons us.

Today I am 44 years old and I have a very difficult life because of addictions that have also led me to alcohol, drugs, and infidelity. I started using drugs and alcohol when I was young. By the time I was 22, I already had a family and we were waiting for my first child to arrive. I made my wife’s life very difficult because of my infidelity and I caused her a lot of pain. I went back to living with my mother for a while, then I returned to my wife. I looked for help in support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. For a while they worked, then I would turn my back on God again and go back to a life of alcohol, drugs, and infidelity. My wife couldn’t take it anymore and I left home, abandoning my family again. I lived alone and was continuously being fired from many jobs. I had debts and, little by little, my body got sick. My situation was getting more and more desperate and I couldn’t find a way out. My mother always advised me to listen to Radio Maria, saying that I would find consolation and guidance. Sometimes I tuned in, but I felt that the messages were not for me and I would change stations to keep listening to the music of the groups and bands that dragged me into most of my vices. On 25 December, I had a serious car accident. I was very badly injured. The vehicle I rented to work in as a taxi driver suffered a lot of damage and I had to pay a thousand dollars to the owners. My health deteriorated further and, when I consulted a doctor, he told me that my liver was not fully functioning, my blood pressure was very high, and my body was so deteriorated that it seemed to belong to an old man. In those days, with so many problems, I also got depressed. I had lost my family again and everything was grey.

Mario Arriola, taxi driver, Guatemala City My name is Mario and I would like to share my witness so that it might help other people who are experiencing the same problems that I lived through. I belong to a Catholic family. My mother is a very good woman as well as my father, although he suffered from alcoholism and when he was drunk he was very violent. I was the oldest child and five years later my sister was born.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

After so many problems, I remembered my mother’s advice. I tuned in to Radio Maria and listened to the program of a priest who, at that moment, was giving a message that spoke to everything I was going through and I felt hope, like God was speaking directly to me. Little by little, I began to give up alcohol and drugs and managed to break down the barrier I had created against God. I prayed the Holy Hours again and I felt the presence of the Virgin of Guadalupe accompanying me. Without me knowing it, Jesus had also worked in my wife’s heart and soul. She participated in a Catholic group and fasted and made sacrifices for my conversion. When I asked her if we could try again, she gave me an opportunity and her character was once more that of the girl I had first fallen in love with. For the past seven months, I’ve worked at recovering my marriage and my children. Now in the evenings we pray as a family and try to lead a sacramental life because we know that only by God’s hand and the Virgin Mary can we move forward in our sanctification.

membered another uncle who always told us to listen to Radio Maria. When the news of Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation came out in the newspapers I was curious and looked for the station. I recognized the voice of the director, Fr. Vincent. That day he was talking about the parable of the prodigal son. He said that our past should no longer be taken into account because our Father doesn’t take it into account but is always waiting for us. I remembered that when I left the mental hospital and was embraced by my brothers and sisters and my parents when I returned home. I went to confession. The people at the church asked me to be a catechist. Radio Maria helped me give a dynamic aspect to my work with the children and I learned a lot from the children’s program “Lights of Faith”. Once, on “The Church Today” they mentioned abuse and that was how I learned to forgive and to set aside my resentment. I was embarrassed to talk to my girlfriend about it, but she listened to me. Now I’m married to her. When I was a kid, my mom and dad would go to work and I would be left in other people’s hands. Radio Maria teaches us to be careful in those cases. If only my parents had been warned! Radio Maria is my support. I don’t want to fall because, it’s not always so easy for me to get up. God used my uncle who listened to Radio Maria to reach me and today I am the one who tells others to listen.

Joel, Paraguay My name is Joel. At the age of 15 I started going to parties, smoking cigarettes and marijuana. When I was 18, I remembered being abused by my uncle, whom I had loved as a child. When I grew up, I was confused about my sexual orientation and, at the same time, I wanted to destroy myself and others. I committed crimes and wanted to kill my relatives. I had very violent episodes of aggression, self-mutilation, and attempts at suicide. So, I was admitted to a neuropsychiatric hospital. It was horrible. One day, I re-

Anonymous, agnostic listener, Venezuela The host of the program “Praying with Jesus and Mary” tells us that she received a phone call from a gentleman

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

who identified himself as an agnostic, saying that he liked the program very much. Hearing this, the host invited him to stay in tune with the programs scheduled by the station so that, little by little he could get to know God and his Mother. Months later, during an activity in which we invited listeners to call in and offer their witness on the radio, this gentleman called, emotionally recounting that finding the station was the greatest discovery he could have experienced in his life, and that he had gradually come to know what the Church and its doctrines speak about and had experienced Mary’s love. He says that it is still hard for him to pray the Rosary, that he cannot pray it alone, but he allows himself to be guided by Radio Maria, which teaches what is involved.

José, San José penitentiary, Uruguay From his cell in San José, José listened to the radio to pass the days. Suddenly, he found himself tuned in to Radio Maria. In his loneliness and skepticism, he found a friendly voice on Our Mother’s radio that led him to call a live program. Speaking with the program’s presenters, he expressed the need to see a priest. The next day, José accepted the sacraments of Reconciliation and Communion. Radio Maria Uruguay was the link to re-establishing communion between José and God. Eight months later, José is still serving his sentence. He called Radio Maria for Christmas to share his story and thank the station for helping him overcome that difficult moment so that he could meet God again.

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

Eduardo Delgado Rodríguez, Costa Rica r. Delgado Rodríguez , after attending a spiritual retreat, he decided to stop listening to secular radio and started to look for a different channel. He came across Radio Maria Costa Rica on 100.7FM and has stayed there since. Now he co-ordinates “The Crown of Stars” program and says he is convinced that Radio Maria has changed his life forever, accompanying him and advising him in his decisions. He is the father of 8 children, 2 of whom have already left this earth for the Father’s house, a pain that he was able to endure thanks to his encounter with God. Through listening to Radio Maria and his determination, he has committed to changing many things in his life.

Major Guillermo Solórzano, Cauca, Colombia Major Guillermo Solórzano was kidnapped by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) on 4 June 2007 in Cauca. He was a police commander in a municipality where they were trying to create an exit to the Pacific in order to facilitate a humanitarian agreement and the release of hostages. During the first few days of his captivity, the major had difficulty adapting and fell into a severe depression. Seven days into the kidnapping, a young guerrilla asked him if he would like to listen to Mass on the radio. In the grip of sadness, he agreed and it changed his life. Threatening him, she warned that he could listen to the radio, but not touch it. Before leaving, she left it tuned on Radio Maria. After that he couldn’t be without it. He learned to pray, he read the whole Bible, and he scrutinized his life.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

Four years passed in captivity and together with his companion, Army Corporal Salín Sanmiguel Valderrama, they consecrated their lives to prayer, recalling the Gospel invitation: “Take up your cross and follow me.” On 16 February 2011, they received their freedom. Eight weeks later he visited Radio Maria. He told us what the Radio had meant while he was incarcerated. His testimony became a meditation on God’s work during his imprisonment, a wonderful story of the gift of faith that God had granted them through Radio Maria. The book “From Captivity to Freedom” was based on his story. It is now in its third edition.

through Radio Maria have I gradually been able to find God again, as well as all those things that are important for Christians. Finding the right path again is an inner joy. I learned to pray again—today, for the first time in years, I started praying the Rosary again. Because of alcohol, I had forgotten many things in my life that I once knew. But it is so beautiful to find the way back. It has been an incredible experience.

Mr. Manfred, Mühlviertel, Austria Radio Maria is an enduring Easter I’m Manfred. Two weeks ago, I discovered Radio Maria by chance. It was like an early Easter for me. Through Radio Maria, I have set out to find new meaning in life. I am really enthusiastic and have found full strength in faith. I hope that Easter will continue until the blessed time to come. Thank you again!

Richard, Vienna - The testimony of a former alcoholic who, through Radio Maria, has found faith again and has freed himself from alcohol addiction I have always believed in God but, when I became an alcoholic, somehow God disappeared from my sight. Only

Christina, 24 years old , Austria A Testimonial from Prison HELLO, MOM! One Friday afternoon, working at the mixer in the studio, I was following a broadcast from Hirtenberg prison near Vienna. It was before Mother’s Day and the prisoners had organized a program with the theme of “Hello, Mom”. After a few songs and the Rosary, the men spoke to their mothers personally via the radio. They used the program as a way to simply and kindly thank their mothers, but also to ask for forgiveness. One of them listed the ways in which he had hurt his mother so far, saying that they worst thing for him was seeing her saddened eyes. It was the pain of a beloved son who knows who his mother is and who he is in his mother’s eyes. At that moment, something changed in my heart. Although I have never committed any crimes and have never had any alcohol or drug problems, I suddenly realized what dignity I had received from my mother, but also how much she has done for me. The men’s words struck my heart and opened my eyes.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONVERSION

They changed something inside of me. This meant that it was not enough to write my mother the usual “Thank you for being my mother” card for Mother’s Day. I thought about the qualities I particularly like about my mother and how grateful I am to have her. Our mothers have given us life itself.

Andreas, Austria - A Testimonial from Prison Hi, Mom. This is your son Andreas speaking. First of all, I wish you all the best for Mother’s Day! I love you very much and would like to thank you with my whole heart. I know it’s very hard for you because I haven’t been close to you for many years. But soon the time will come when I’ll come back to you. It’s always a joy for me when you come to visit, but it also makes me very sad when I look into your eyes and feel how unhappy you are. Even if you always say that everything is okay, as your son, I know it isn’t so. While I’ve been in prison, I’ve had enough time to reflect, and I promise you that, after my release, I will not make you worry any more. I want to make you happy. I want to see your eyes shine again. Just summing up, I want to wish you all the best for Mother’s Day and I thank God for protecting you and giving you strength. I love you very much.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO THAT SAVES LIVES

“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.” Lk 19:10

As much as people today strive to move forward, relying solely on their own strengths, they are unable to save themselves. Only God can give life and, consequently, salvation. Radio Maria announces how the fullness of God has been revealed and is present in Jesus Christ, humanity's only savior. Our Radio has the potential to radically change people's existence, especially at times when their lives are sorely tested.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Robin, engineer, Philippines Once, there was a man in his mid-20’s who came to Radio Maria Philippines with his parents to share a very powerful testimony. We will just call him “Robin”. Robin is a Civil Engineer currently working in a construction firm. He is single and he’s enjoying this lifestyle. However, a year ago he was with a girlfriend whom he had loved and cherished since his high school days. They were happy in their relationship until the fateful day when she broke up with Robin. Robin did not understand why and it hurt him very deeply, to the point of developing a latent depression that went undetected by everyone, even himself. His sorrow and depression affected his work and family relationships so much that he was constantly receiving reprimands from his bosses and was misunderstood by his parents and siblings, which only added to his suffering. He spent days and nights drinking alcohol like there was no tomorrow. He said that, during those days, the depression really possessed him, especially because he had no one to talk to about his ordeal. Then, one day, he just woke up at peace, as if everything was settled, like the weather the day after a storm. Yet, in the midst of the seeming calmness, there was a surging pain within that could not be tamed. With that sense, he said, it was very clear in his mind that the only way to stop the suffering was through suicide. So, he searched the internet for information on how to commit suicide. He was firm in his decision and there seemed to be nothing that could change his mind. When alone at home, Robin silently prepared everything for his suicide, which he was going to commit by hanging

A RADIO THAT SAVES LIVES

himself in his room at midnight of that same day. One providential preparation he made was to bring the radio set into his room so that, when he was committing suicide, he could turn it on so no one from his family would hear any suspicious sound that he might cause and therefore hinder the decision to take his own life. That night, after dinner, he went to his room and locked it. Robin prepared for his death by writing melancholic suicide letters for his parents, siblings, and his former girlfriend one by one. These took him hours to write, until around eleven in the evening. When everything was in place, he turned the radio on and increased its volume. He stood on a chair and carefully tied the rope to his neck. But while he was doing that he noticed the sound coming from the radio. It was not music or talking but a prayer. It caught his attention and, while finishing tying the rope, he heard these prayers being said from the Tuesday Compline’s Psalmody (Psalm 143: 1-11), LORD, hear my prayer; in your faithfulness listen to my pleading; answer me in your righteousness. Do not enter into judgment with your servant; before you no one can be just. The enemy has pursued my soul; he has crushed my life to the ground. He has made me dwell in darkness like those long dead. My spirit is faint within me; my heart despairs.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

I remember the days of old; I ponder all your deeds; the works of your hands I recall. I stretch out my hands toward you, my soul to you like a parched land. Hasten to answer me, LORD; for my spirit fails me. Do not hide your face from me, lest I become like those descending to the pit. In the morning let me hear of your mercy, for in you I trust. Show me the path I should walk, for I entrust my life to you. Rescue me, LORD, from my foes, for I seek refuge in you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your kind spirit guide me on ground that is level. For your name’s sake, LORD, give me life; in your righteousness lead my soul out of distress. In your mercy put an end to my foes; all those who are oppressing my soul, for I am your servant.

A RADIO THAT SAVES LIVES

Upon hearing those words from the radio, Robin remembered God. He immediately remembered how good his life and his family were. He remembered God‘s goodness to him for so many years. Tears welled up from his eyes unintentionally and abundantly. Immediately, he removed the rope from his neck, stepped down from the chair and just cried and cried, asking for forgiveness for forgetting God and His great love when he was considering committing suicide. Robin said that it was his first time feeling that powerful emotion and experience of being rescued and of being loved. He said, “I felt like God embraced me.” For him, it was a feeling of being treated with value and importance again. At that point he saw his life as more than just the pain of being broken and left behind. There was something more to his life. Then, while he was sobbing, the praying of the Holy Rosary followed Compline and at that moment he prayed along, feeling more and more at peace while the pain in his heart gradually dissipated. He remembered the prayers although it was the first time that he really prayed them after so many years. When the prayer ended Robin went to his parents’ room, woke them up, and told them this same story. Days after that providential midnight, the three of them came to the station to express their gratitude to – and their powerful experience of – Radio Maria’s mission, because of which Robin was saved from committing an irrevocable mistake just by fatefully tuning in to the frequency of a station that was totally unknown to him. Robin and his family are now constant listeners and supporters of Radio Maria Philippines. It is their firm belief that the grace they have received through the radio is available to all who are also suffering from the pain and anguish that Robin experienced.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Anonymous, Venezuela The program, “Talking until Dawn”, broadcast one Saturday a month on Radio Maria Venezuela from midnight to six in the morning was created to support those people that for whatever reason are not able to rest during those late evening and early morning hours. During one of the program’s episodes, which was hosted by Mrs. Marlene Croce, a call came in from a 32-year-old man around 2:00am. He did not want to be identified and the first thing he asked was if his call was going to be broadcast because he did not want anyone else to hear the conversation. Once he was reassured, he told the operator that he was on the terrace of his house, located in the state of Vargas, smoking a cigarette. He was very concerned about his economic and family situation. He worked for the Ministry of Education but his salary wasn’t enough to cover his family’s needs. He lived with his parents and felt very depressed and a failure because, at his age, he hadn’t been able to become independent and give his family the stability he wanted. With a broken and very sad voice, he told the operator that, that night, he had climbed onto the terrace with the intention of ending his life by throwing himself into the void, but when he thought of suicide, he heard a voice within telling him to turn on the radio. Adjusting the tuner, he found Radio Maria on channel AM1450 and started to listen to what the presenters were saying. He realized that it was a live broadcast and he felt encouraged to call. He only needed to vent his anguish and distance himself from the thoughts that were constantly nagging him because he needed to take care of his little 2-year-old girl. The operator, who was his age, and encouraged him, telling him

A RADIO THAT SAVES LIVES

that we were all there to listen to him, but especially to pray for him and his needs. Then the young man said a grateful goodbye. After that night, he called three more times and, even though he never wanted to go on air to participate in the program, he said that he thanked God that he had not committed suicide that Saturday night. He is grateful to have found Radio Maria Venezuela in that moment and grateful of God’s glory.

Roberto Veloz, Ecuador I am an only child and my mother raised me on her own. As a youngster, I lost part of three fingers from my right hand after an accident. It caused me to have feelings of anxiety and, even worse, I was subject to abuse at the school where I studied. In elementary school, for example, a teacher beat me in front of all my classmates and told me that I wasn’t normal, all because I wasn’t able to play a flute. It had such a strong impact that I had classmates who, at school parties, would say I shouldn’t dance because, as the teacher said, I wasn’t normal. Without a doubt, those were years of silence. I didn’t speak up about what was happening or how my rights were being violated. All of this caused me to go through a period of total debauchery—that’s what I call it—when I was around 15 years old, for all of my adolescence and young adulthood. I sought revenge against the society that saw me as “abnormal”, against the community that had made fun of me. During all those years, I kept my hand wrapped in a bandana to cover it up and hide it.

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO THAT SAVES LIVES

I did many things. I caused a lot of pain. I grew violent against myself—I didn’t love myself and I wanted to feel pain because of all the hatred I was carrying. In a few years I went from being a good student to being a teenager who went out all the time. I even left school for a while. Eventually I began studying at another school. When I was a teenager, I had motorcycles and then a car, which belonged to my mother. I already knew how to drive. I had a good standard of living, thanks to my mother’s work, so I could afford many things. Those who lived with me and saw the changes in my clothes, in my way of living, in my long hair, in starting to drink and smoke, besides seeing me as a negative human being also began to see me as someone who was having a “bad influence” on others. They started to shut me out, making me invisible, talking about me and criticizing me behind my back. They went so far as to discriminate against me andwrite me off as stereotypical. I had difficult years of a harsh external environment and much interior misery. All this time, my family, as well as not understanding my radical change, was always my harshest critic. I was called the “black sheep” of the family for how I looked, what I did, what I didn’t do, my failures, my violence, etc. Only one person never abandoned me: my mother. Amidst her tears and prayers, she never stopped trusting that her only son would convert, change, and resume his former way of being. She continued to pray in her personal prayer space at home with an unshakeable faith, like only a mother can, like only a mother is sure that my day of conversion would come. As a child, my mother had entrusted me to the Sorrowful Mother and it was to her and to Jesus the Almighty that her faith was directed.

Then my actions got a little less wild. I decided to resume my studies. I managed to get my diploma and started university. Additionally, my dream was to study at the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador which did come to pass. In those years, around 2002, I met a great human being called Galo. We became very close friends. I began to consider him my best friend for his noble humanity, for his character, and for his unconditional help. Galo was about 5 years younger than me. He had been adopted by wonderful parents who filled him with love and also provided him a privileged and well-off economic situation. Galo told me all about his life, how he helped poor boys and girls but also that he was being blackmailed by his biological mother, after she had discovered that he had money. One day, he couldn’t bear the pressure, the blackmail, the disparaging names like “sucker” and, after a couple of drinks and having a gun on him, decided to kill himself. It was one of the most terrible, most difficult, and most significant moments of my life. My best friend was dead and there was nothing I could do. I fell into a deep depression and started drinking and lamenting that he was gone. One day, when I was leaving the university — at that time I always carried a Walkman so I could listen to my rock songs — I thought that I would do the same, take my own life. I went home, sat in the living room, and wanted to take my own life. While I was weeping and thinking negative cowardly thoughts, the Walkman stopped working, that is, it wouldn’t change station. Suddenly I heard a song that I later learned was called “No one loves you like I do” (“Nadie te ama como yo”) by the great Martín Valverde. Within a few minutes, I felt the presence of a very white, very bright figure next to me. She embraced me like a

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

mother does. I felt protected. I felt her calming me down and accompanying me. At that point the song went on and I couldn’t change the station. It was Radio Maria Ecuador, a station I had never heard before; I didn’t even know it existed. It was so moving, that mother figure putting me to bed and letting me rest. When I woke up the next day, I hadn’t done what I was thinking about and I just remembered the song. I went to look at my Walkman and, it seems incredible, but when I turned it on, there was Radio Maria and again the beautiful song by Martín Valverde. It was the first time I heard about Radio Maria. I heard them give the station’s phone number and I decided to call and share my experience. That same day, I went to tell them what had happened to me. I went to the station and I remember kneeling in the chapel and crying I was profoundly moved. I know that the Blessed Mother saved me, took me to her son, and that Jesus stretched out his hand to raise me up. After that experience, I—the anxious, arrogant, boy with a bad attitude, the black sheep—decided that I had to give something back for this wonderful life experience I had been given. I decided to volunteer for Radio Maria Ecuador. Today, I defend human rights. My life project has allowed me to get closer to the elderly and to persons with disabilities. I wake up every day proud. It doesn’t matter that I’m already 45-years-old, I don’t leave home to serve others without asking my mother’s blessing. Like I’ve said, it is the only perfect chapter of my life. It is profoundly wonderful to have lived this experience.

A RADIO THAT SAVES LIVES

Anonymous, Spain Years ago, a night show was broadcast on our station. One night, the program’s host, Margarita, kept repeating: “Dear listener, whoever you are, have no doubt that God loves you. Don’t forget, whatever situation you find yourself in, God loves you.” What Margarita couldn’t imagine was that, that night, a man was in his car with the intention of causing an accident that would end his life. The next day, he showed up at the station and said that, without knowing why, the Radio Maria station had come on and he heard that sweet voice repeating: “Don’t forget, whatever your situation, God loves you.” He stopped the car, started to cry, and went home, having decided not to commit suicide. That night, Our Lady’s radio saved a life.

100

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONSOLATION

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and God of all encouragement, who encourages us in our every affliction, so that we may be able to encourage those who are in any affliction with the encouragement with which we ourselves are encouraged by God.” 2 Cor 1: 3-4

Suffering, illness, and death are among humanity's greatest fears, but even simple worries and self-indulgences weigh down our hearts. Through its programs, Radio Maria encourages and accompanies every listener to carry their own cross together with Jesus, just like Simon of Cyrene on the climb that led to Golgotha. In the wide and real presence of our family of listeners, no one feels alone anymore, but is consoled by Jesus who reassures us that "my yoke is easy, and my burden light." Mt 11:30

101

102

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

-te, actress in theater Aldona Bendoriu and cinema, Lithuania Radio Maria has completely surpassed all of the other radio stations and TV shows in my life. Light, calmness, cleanliness, knowledge, experiences, consolation, prayer, community and vitality are all compliments that I can give to this radio. I can say that, without a doubt, this is one addiction that does not have a negative effect, and I am definitely addicted. It has no vanity, dirt, or consumerism. I wish God’s strength and blessing on all of Radio Maria and its listeners!

Božo Barun, Zagreb, Croatia I have the honour of saying that I was part of the founding group of Radio Maria in Croatia. I was and have stayed a part of its many happenings, which are now carved in my memories. These are not just regular memories but are something much more, deeper and higher so it is hard to find the right word for them. I am always more convinced of the fact that the Radio Maria Project in our beloved country of Croatia is a cooperation between heaven and earth led by the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary. Broadcasting began a few years after the last war in Croatia. The suffering and wounds of our nation, the suffering and wounded souls of the Croatian people needed consolation. We needed to heal the wounds in our spirit, soul, and body. We all needed hope and consolation in our hearts. We needed something special to overcome those days of pain, those days when feelings of sorrow and pain were mixed

A RADIO OF CONSOLATION

with the joy of freedom that had been granted. Although the Radio Maria Project started in Italy in 1983, to me it seemed that it was created for us in Croatia and for our situation in those times. And now it is even more evident that the Holy Spirit was guiding us and preparing us. I still remember it clearly to this day, that moment when we gathered, joined, and prayed the Rosary for conversion and peace. Through the whole process we were guided by the invisible but mighty hand of God. That is the only way to understand everything that happened in those days. Could anyone else but the Holy Spirit direct everything that has happened because of this? We were following the wise words of Saint Benedict – work and pray! We worked the best way we could. It was like a dream at noon on that 22 of Feburary in 1997 when we gathered in Kajzerica with Franjo Kuharić and started our radio broadcast in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It was with a feeling of great importance that each individual wanted to put themselves to work for God’s and Mary’s project. Its size doesn’t matter; what matters is that you put yourself at the service of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary. How? In Mary’s way, in truth and humility, in perseverance and love.

Anonymous, Ireland Letter from a listener Hi Fr. Eamonn, I heard some of your catechesis program this morning and the nice discussion regarding faith. As you were speaking, I was thinking of my own journey. I always knew that my faith would be found where my journey of healing and forgiveness

103

104

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONSOLATION

would begin, but my doubts always prevented me from taking that step. The simple words of Scripture that you used, Fr. Eamonn, “Lord, I believe, help my unbelief” describe very simply how Jesus brought me to him as he needed to. What I lost and how it was taken from me cannot be understood and no words can describe. And without understanding or words, I have never known how to begin to heal. There have been so many dark and difficult days when I thought nothing more could be taken from me and that I was very lost. Trust has always been so difficult for me. All I could do was to reach out to Jesus and tell him, “I don’t know what to do”. His cross is slowly becoming my understanding and my words. In his woundedness on the cross, Jesus sees and understands my woundedness as only He can, and I cannot. In humility, I have had to accept that Jesus loves me and accepts me for who I am and this is now becoming a gentle acceptance of each other. What I lost was so precious, but I am now beginning to see that Jesus is giving me something equally as precious. Small things that are slowly guiding me on my journey and are simply the grace of Jesus. The answer to my “Why?” is now becoming a different answer than what I thought it would be. Jesus is slowly guiding me on my journey with gentleness and helping me to understand that what I give him of my brokenness, however small, is always accepted with love. So, I wanted to express my sincere thanks for all your kindness, goodness, and the lovely warm welcome that I received on my visit to Radio Maria Ireland. When I decided to come and visit, I thought that all I would do was to see the studio and how it all works. Little did I realize that, by the time I left, I would have spoken on air (I’m still trying to get my head around that one). Radio Maria is a family and can

be very proud of what has been achieved so far by everyone. It is needed so much in our busy lives today and it allows people to speak about their faith. I will continue to pray for Radio Maria and ask God to bless each of you for the wonderful work that you are doing.

Angela, Veneto, Italy - A live phone call I hope to help a few people with my witness. I’m going back in time to 2008. I was in the car with my son who was 17 years old. I listened to music from the 80’s because that was when I used to go out to the discos all the time. I was a bit like that… like all the people who don’t go to church. I didn’t go to church; I didn’t pray; I didn’t do anything. What would happen? I was in the car with my son and we were listening to 80’s music. At a certain point we heard Radio Maria as we were channel surfing and we started laughing. I said, “Oh God, Radio Maria”. I was waiting for them to change the channel because it wasn’t … and my son said: “Change it, change it.” A year later my 17-year-old son died in an accident and I was … dead. I didn’t know what to hold onto because … not being … not having faith, not going to church, I didn’t know what to hold onto. I tried putting on, I’m not sure why, Radio Maria. Three months after my son died, Radio Maria saved me. It saved me from despair.

Frank Pöpsel, editor-in-chief of Focus Money magazine, Germany Where is God when I seek him? “God either wishes to take away evils and is unable; or He

105

106

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF CONSOLATION

is able and is unwilling; or He is neither willing nor able; or He is both willing and able. If He is willing and is unable, He is feeble, which is not in accordance with the character of God; if He is able and unwilling, He is envious, which is equally at variance with God; if He is neither willing or able, He is both envious and feeble, and therefore not God; if He is both willing and able, which alone is suitable to God, from what source then are evils or why does He not remove them?” On 29 July 2013, my son Julian died from an aneurysm when he was only 10 years old. Since then I have been struggling with these questions that the early Christian author Lactantius formulated 1700 years ago. “Why does God allow evil?” I could hate God, but I know that Julian is with him. So, I want to love God, because I want to go to Julian. Radio Horeb is the only voice of the Church that I know that takes on human suffering day after day. Radio Horeb consoles, gives strength, and helps give meaning to suffering. God became human. Humans mocked and condemned him. In his last hours he was alone, abandoned by almost all of his disciples. He was tormented and tortured. He endured unimaginable suffering. A colleague of mine whose son died of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome told me that “trusting in God also means learning to live with questions that cannot be answered in this life”. Radio Horeb helps me. Thanks to Radio Horeb, I can believe, not always, but often: God died for us to show us that there is a way through suffering. I believe in God!

very different spirit, and this has often moved me in a pleasant and relaxing way. My customers have also found the experience pleasant and are able to relax in my cab.

The testimony of a taxi driver from Vienna I found Radio Maria as a taxi driver in Vienna. I often change channels and Radio Maria is often a pleasant diversion from the monotony you hear on other channels. It has a

Mrs. Helene, Austria Radio Maria through the mourning process I am very happy to have found this station, which a friend told me about. Since my husband died, it has given me much consolation. I also listen to it at night when I can’t sleep. I would recommend it to all who are in mourning.

Elisabeth, Austria - Source of strength in caring for a handicapped daughter I have a disabled daughter who I take care of and my husband is quite elderly. It’s a difficult relationship but, for more than six months, I’ve discovered Radio Maria, which is a source of strength for me, especially from the communion I feel with others. When I hear the calls you take with other listeners, I hear that their lives reflect mine. It gives me consolation in my situation.

Martin, truck driver, Austria My name is Martin. I would like to thank you very much for your broadcasting. It has touched me deeply in my heart. I was going through a period when I was feeling completely devasted. I am young and now I have the support I need to promise to stay on the path of faith. I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have helped me so much.

107

108

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

A RADIO OF HEALING

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always.” Jn 14:16

Testimonials and shared prayer are just small examples of what the "communion of saints" is all about. Radio Maria makes possible the establishment of an enormous global religious community that, from dawn to dusk, never ceases in its support in mutual and unceasing prayer with all its members. With Radio Maria by your side you are never alone.

109

110

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Dr. Aurimas M. Juozaitis, consultant and independent education expert, Lithuania If anyone wants to understand what kind of Lithuania we live in, they only have to listen to Radio Maria! Not only is it the only radio that presents the entire spectrum of Lithuanian life, it’s also a unique source of communication among all the media, not in the variety of subjects they cover, but in the way that everything is presented. At Radio Maria, there is a place for everyone, including a granny from the countryside, an intellectual from the city, a young student, an everyday worker, an artistic daydreamer...

Valdas Adamkus, Former president of the Republic of Lithuania Radio Maria has one of the widest listening audiences in the nation. It’s a dignified radio that preaches the Good News. I hope that, in this world full of events and challenges, everyone can find the true virtues of hope, peace, and love that are ceaselessly being spread by Radio Maria throughout all of Lithuania and beyond its borders.

Lilyani Sutrisno, Lange Vonder, Amsterdam I am Lilyani Sutrisno and I live in Lange Vonder, Amsterdam. I listen to Radio Maria Indonesia through online streaming. What I like the most about Radio Maria are the prayers. Their programs encourage me to pray more and more. I really appreciate the live Masses that are broadcast. It is a way

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

for people, who cannot attend church, to feel the atmosphere of the Mass. The catechism programs help me to understand more about the faith.

Veerle, Belgium Dear brothers and sisters, dear co-workers of Radio Maria, As I have been in hospital for a short time, I have come to realize even more the value of the Eucharist with Radio Maria. This morning, before having surgery, I was able to pray the morning prayers of the Church, then listen to the Mass and pray in unity. It is such a grace. My pain medication is still on the bedside table — I don’t need it because the Lord is so close. I pray for you and will try to speak to the pastoral worker here about Radio Maria. United in prayer.

Pieter, family man, Belgium Dear volunteers and co-workers of Radio Maria, I am a young father of two little children who are 5 and 7 years old. I was raised very religious, but with my own family I hardly ever go to church and I haven’t explicitly passed the faith on to my children. I am very happy when I listen to your radio. It allows me to maintain a connection to my faith in my life! I want to let you know how much I appreciate your programs and the choice of music! I hope you can continue with this decent, warm, and unifying work in the busy world. Thank you very much!

111

112

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Emma Harutyunyan, Gyumri, Armenia Your radio has strengthened my faith in God. You explain everything so deeply that it is possible to draw closer to God and get to know him. Your programs are so encouraging. I especially like the ones about healthcare, which help me a lot in my everyday life. I like the specific songs and music that you choose. I am thankful for the ‘Eco-Morning’ program and the wisdom that you convey.

Gohar Karapetyan, Gyumri, Armenia You have programs that enrich the soul and it is pleasant to listen to you. During spiritual talks, you reflect on topics about which we previously knew nothing. Because of these spiritual programs I have become more peaceful, quiet, and tolerant. I am grateful to Radio Mariam for this change.

Aloyce Mbuya, Tegeta, Dar es Salaam I never listened to Radio Maria before. But, following a car accident, I broke my leg, and so, was unable to do very much, including going to church. I couldn’t walk properly but, with the help of crutches and by putting my leg over a stool whenever I sat down, I could manage. This prompted me to listen to the morning prayers and holy Masses broadcast by Radio Maria every day. Radio Maria Tanzania was very helpful and consoling throughout the time when I could not go to church. Some time later, I recovered but now I still listen to Radio Maria Tanzania. God bless Radio Maria Tanzania.

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

Joseph, Mwanza, Tanzania Before I started listening to Radio Maria Tanzania, I tended not to go to church on Sundays. When I learned about Radio Maria Tanzania and started listening, it pushed me to start attending Masses as well as to donate to the radio with whatever little I have. It also gives me the opportunity to learn to pray with the daily prayers that are aired in the morning and evening. Before I did not know these prayers but now I can say them even without reading from the book. Thanks to the teachings that I have learned from Radio Maria Tanzania, my entire family also attends church on Sundays. May Radio Maria Tanzania keep spreading the Good News to the interior areas of Tanzania.

Ferenc Kiss, Hungary I first heard Radio Maria while I was driving in my car. I listened to it and slowly felt an intimate, familiar atmosphere around me, in my little car, while I was travelling. I got into the habit of listening to it. This happened around 2010, when I lost my job. I was 35 years old, and the leader of a great firm in Budapest. My father had worked there for 54 years and I worked there for 20 years. Since I was one of the leaders of the firm, I thought that it would not be very difficult to find a new job. “I have good professional experience, references...” I thought. But it didn’t happen. In the summer of 2011, I finished working with the company and became unemployed. That situation lasted for two and half years. I often thought about the worst thing. I couldn’t see any way out of my deep despair.

113

114

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

My faith and Radio Maria saved me from making a bad mistake that summer. The station announced a volunteer technical job. I was very happy and immediately applied. I knew what voluntary meant: that there is no salary. That’s why I only served early in the mornings and then I would go out to search for work. When I arrived at Radio Maria, I was amazed that such a community could exist in this world. I found myself in a community based on love where the people were working for a common, noble aim. I was helped greatly by my technician collaborators, who were also volunteers. I was not used to such professional and spiritual help from colleagues in other workplaces. The regular schedule of my service (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays) gave my life back a normal rhythm—the rhythm of working. This “simple” fact gave me back my belief in myself, in my soul, and I began to believe that I would find a job: I would only have to look for it. My wife and I prayed together for many days and nights. Finally, after two and half years, my phone rang. First, I had a little job, then a significant job, and now I can happily say that I have a very significant job since 2015. Professionally, I am at the same level as when I was working earlier. Currently, I work as a manager for a Church-owned hospital. It is not in the private sector. and is a faith-based place of work. My relationship with my wife has been refreshed now we have a beautiful baby. Our life has become settled. I would like to emphasize that, without Radio Maria’s support, I wouldn’t have been able to survive.

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

Andrea Könnyid, Hungary To tell the truth, I’d like to speak not only about myself but also about my family, my husband and my children, because Radio Maria’s moral strength reaches my whole family and we feel that this spirit is part of our life. My daughter was only three months old when we began to broadcast the Mammy’s Club together with other mothers who were volunteers at Radio Maria. Then I had two more daughters who became ‘volunteers’ as babies because they came to the broadcasts when we had radio programs. The children got used to the blissful environment. We liked visiting the station with our little children. The sense of team spirit is the most important feeling I received from the St. Monica Baby-Mammy community, beyond the familiar experience of the station. Not only for me but also for my children. I think that Radio Maria’s moral strength runs through the middle of my soul. For example, we travelled abroad and tried to tune in to Radio Maria from Csíksomlyó, Romania. We were successful. It was an unbelievably good feeling! This radio is a little home in my heart. When I listen to it, I feel that I could not be in Budapest but anywhere in our country or anywhere in the world and yet I am still at home. This radio is a real wonder. I think that the spiritual strength that we receive from listening is great. Radio Maria gives us the possibility to talk and to go deeper into issues drawing from the wealth of human experience of those in the studio. The story begins with the receptionists who are always kind and polite. The technicians are always helpful, they make you feel right at home. The station’s studio, its broadcasts, the programming—you only have to hear the signature tune and you already know that you are home.

115

116

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Listeners give testimony over the telephone, (Russia) Good day! I am very happy and delighted to hear your voices because your ministry has beenof constant support to me with my affliction. I suffer from multiple sclerosis, and gradually, bit by bit, I’m beginning to walk around with crutches, getting around more quickly and swiftly. So many things have changed! Thank you, Lord, for such a radio station! I am thankful to Radio Maria for its spiritual support and particularly for the Mass in Russian. When the words of our Lord are pronounced, they penetrate one’s heart and are kept there. Also, Fr. Yuriy Dorogin’s exegesis helps us to practice those ideals in our real life. When the radio is silent because of maintenance, my soul misses it. I am grateful to all those working at this radio station for their hard work in the vineyards of the Lord. I love your peaceful and comforting voices. My dear ones, I wish you every success! Good day! I am Kuzmin Ivan Ivanovich. I am a pensioner. I attend the Church of St. Peter in the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Moscow. It’s my regular church: it has liturgy, sharing, communion, and Radio Maria as well. It is so very educational and enlightening. How did I first get to know about this radio station? I got hold of a small radio, started searching through channels, and it tuned in to this one, Radio Maria. That was it. Since then, it has been a part of my day, the voice in my kitchen, and it’s always on. I listen to the radio, sometimes as late as 2 o’clock in the

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

morning. You are certainly doing a great job! I’d say a splendid job. It’s also educational, both for little children and adults. I’ve got grandchildren and, since my radio is on in the kitchen permanently, they listen to Radio Maria with pleasure too.

Anonymous, Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina It would be impossible to talk about Radio Maria, without mentioning Medjugorje, where it all began. All of these years, messages from the blessed Virgin have inspired millions of visitors and pilgrims to come from all over the world. Mary’s spiritual school has become a guidepost in the lives of many people. That school influenced the foundation of Radio Maria’s worldwide mission. The positive influence of the new evangelization that is spread by the Radio and new means of communication, helps to deliver the Word of God. In its eight years of existence, Radio Maria Bosnia and Herzegovina has helped its listeners grow deeper in their spirituality and regain their hope. My father died in August of 2011 and it was a huge loss for our family. At that time, I found comfort in listening to Radio Maria’s spiritual programming as well as the spiritual music, daily prayers and everything else it broadcast. Our country has a unique history, especially after the terrible war we suffered in the mid 1990’s. A lot of people left the country at that time, and only a minority of those have returned to their homes. I live in a part of the country where Catholics are a minority and living here as a Catholic in the full sense of the term takes a lot of spiritual strength. My strength comes from attending daily Mass and listening to Radio Maria’s programs.

117

118

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Our way of living can also help others on their life’s quest for hope. With full confidence I can say that I have noticed a lot of positive changes in people who have joined Mary’s family. Radio Maria and its daily prayers, stories about spirituality and saints, as well the general broadcasting helps me to overcome all those bad moments that I occasionally encounter in my daily routine and life in general. That’s why we need to learn, pray, and work all our life, and Radio Maria gives us exactly that—spiritual guidance for the Church’s beloved children, from Mary our mother, and her son Jesus Christ, who is the way of true faith and salvation for all of us.

Veronica Farcäu, Romania After taking part in a pilgrimage to Sighetu Marmației, where there is a Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance, I learned about this station because my husband bought me a radio and, since we’ve had Radio Maria, my radio is always on. After my husband returned to the Father, I have found solace with Radio Maria, which is always with me, day and night. I always pray for you, for those who work with Radio Maria, because you bring me so much joy. Listening to Radio Maria, I am very happy. Especially since my husband is no longer with me, with the voice of Radio Maria, I do not feel alone. With Radio Maria on at home, I feel that I have God at home with me. And even if I am a widow, when I can and when God helps me, I give something to support Radio Maria. Thank you!

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

Agimi, Klina, Kosovo I am Agimi from Klina (*his name has been changed). I was convinced that my life no longer made any sense: illness, old age, loneliness. Suddenly, I discovered a VOICE, a radio station, Radio Maria in Kosovo, which gave me new meaning to my life, to illness, old age, and loneliness. I was forgotten and abandoned, but God, through Radio Maria Kosovo, takes care of me. I can no longer go out, do some tasks, or visit outside, but Radio Maria Kosovo comes to me regularly and gives me back hope and life. It keeps me company. May God reward you! How long have you followed Radio Maria Kosovo? For some time now, especially since the new frequencies were introduced. Now I can more easily listen to and follow the different programs that fill my life and heart with joy. Saying THANK YOU is too simple and too little… What does Radio Maria Kosovo mean to you? It means a lot, everything, because it gives me so much company. It offers me the chance to be joined with many people who listen and pray to Our Lady for us. I recommend it to many lonely, abandoned, elderly people, but also to young people, to be part of our family of Radio Maria Kosovo so as not to be alone, sad, isolated, or forgotten. What is your experience with Radio Maria Kosovo and your message? I have been reborn and have found a beautiful meaning in my life of sickness, old age, and loneliness. Now, thank God and Radio Maria Kosovo, everything is different, more beautiful. My message is this: listen to Radio Maria Kosovo so

119

120

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

that you can be a living and active member of this family of Mary. For me it’s a wonder. Why don’t you try it too?

My whole life has been guided by St. Benedict’s golden rule: Ora et labora. My message is this: never say goodbye to Radio Maria Kosovo but say: thank you, Lord, for the grace you give to me and to my family through the great Radio Maria family. Those who want to be strong and effective must pray always, be believers, love without expecting anything for others: “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thess 5:17) When we lose our pride, we lose nothing. When we lose our health, we lose in half. When we lose our will, we lose everything. A man grows old when he loses his desire for life. “I am life” (Jn 14:6). Success begins with a strong will. Return to yourself while you still have the time to do so. “Be on your guard, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong” (1 Cor 16:13). If you want to have success in life and in Radio Maria Kosovo, you need the right instruments: “faith, hope, and love” (1 Cor 13:13).

Dedë Palokai, Kosovo How long have you been listening to Radio Maria Kosovo? I’ve listened to Radio Maria Kosovo since the beginning, when it started proclaiming its message of peace and love among those of us in Kosovo. By proposing and expanding the treasures of the Christian archaeological heritage, the dissemination of the Word of God through evangelizing to young people, parents, families, the sick, the spiritually wounded, and abandoned persons as a layman working in the vineyard of the Lord—”You too go into my vineyard” (Mt 20:4)—I feel happy that through the Radio Maria Kosovo’s broadcasts I am present among our listeners, thus becoming a Christian voice in their midst. This is in addition to other daily commitments. What does Radio Maria Kosovo mean to you? For me, its meaning and primary message is: “Follow me” (Jn 1:43). In answering this call, nothing seems more difficult to me and I always find time to give my contribution to the Church, to Radio Maria Kosovo. In my life, everything is connected to that primary call. Through Radio Maria Kosovo’s transmissions, I have found many friends and family in every part of the world. One thing is very important: I can have a few or many friends, it’s the same. If I don’t have a friendship with God, or with myself, then I don’t have any true friends. What is your experience with Radio Maria Kosovo and your message?

Elvira Arana , Caacupé, Paraguay My name is Elvira Arana. I am a widow and I’m from Caacupé. My husband died 16 years ago and I felt very alone and abandoned. Then, a priest from the city of Pirayú who always visited our house told me about Radio Maria “nigo oĩ”. I searched and found it and have never left the channel yet. When it was officially inaugurated, I was there at the station. This has strengthened me. It has been my comfort. The Virgin gave me a new heart. She comforted me. I did not understand what had happened to me; I didn’t understand death. After listening, I understood that we must all leave and that we have to prepare for that journey. Everything that I hear from Radio Maria is a wonderful

121

122

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

thing. It is a grace for our salvation. The world offers other solutions and that is why I invite everyone I meet to listen to Radio Maria because it is the path that leads us to the Father through Jesus. And all the programs are wonderful. For me, it is a treasure because it is my companion for my whole life. Now, to those people who are disillusioned with life, I recommend that they listen to Radio Maria because it opens the path to heaven. I ask the Lord and Most Holy Mary that we all listen to Radio Maria. Before, I was contributing, giving my small share, and I volunteered. Now that I can’t, I offer my prayers. It is always useful for me to listen because no one can say “I have learned everything.” All the programs help you. Every day you hear something new and it’s so beautiful. I hope that everyone gets involved and that, those who can, work for Radio Maria because it is necessary.

Sr. Mariana, Carmelite sister of the monastery of San José, Córdoba, Argentina

Hugo, Montevideo, Uruguay Hugo was diagnosed with serious respiratory problems. He wasn’t a believer, but his wife Marta is. She was also a volunteer for Radio Maria Uruguay. Seeing her husband’s health deteriorate, she prayed as a support to face her adversities. Little by little, reciting the Rosary as a supportive pillar made Hugo feel a strong inner peace. At the time, Marta participated in an afternoon program that always ended with a song of thanksgiving to the Lord. As his disease progressed, Hugo found peace more and more by listening to Radio Maria, to the point that he became friends with the program’s presenters. The disease took a long course. In the end, Hugo peacefully went to the Father’s house with a rosary in his hands.

Sr. Mariana de Jesús, thanks to the prayer intentions of Radio Maria listeners, has built a statue that is a copy of the Virgin, Queen of Peace. The beautiful image is almost 60cm high and is made entirely of cards on which listeners recorded their prayer intentions. It took Sr. Mariana two years to finish it. The first year she worked at home and she hadn’t even thought about becoming a nun. Later, she met the Carmelite nuns and went to the San José monastery, where she finished her work. “It was the Mother, through the Radio, who moved my heart and helped me discover my vocation”, she said with great conviction. “The people’s pain captured me. At night, I prayed the Rosary with the listeners and I knew that they put all their petitions at the Blessed Mother’s feet. The people’s pain and tears captured me, and the image of the Virgin began to form in my mind,” she explained. Then she asked Fr. Javier for permission to create the image and the Radio staff began to collect envelops of prayer intentions. While designing the piece, she even had to cut off the white edges of the sheets of paper so that no intention was excluded. “It was truly moving”, she said. As a dream for the future, Mariana said: “Since I started forming the image, my greatest dream was that it would be close to the people, where everyone could express their joys and sufferings to Mary. The image was handed over to the Radio’s director on 15 October 2001 during a Mass on the feast of St. Theresa.

123

124

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

Humbly, Sr. Mariana has stated that the image is entirely the work of God and that He is the one who deserves all the praise.

te her help and she didn’t rest until she was able to make two important offerings for her Radio Maria at moments of great need. She left for the Father’s house in the peace of feeling very cared for by her DEAR RADIO.

Anonymous, Puno, Perù This is the story of a listener from the city of Puno in Sierra del Sur, Peru, who has been listening to us for many years. She was confined to her bed because of an incurable and painful illness. In the fragility that she was experiencing in her delicate situation, she tried to communicate with Radio Maria—not so that it would be broadcast, because she asked for absolute privacy. We knew that she was deeply grateful to the Radio. Every day, she drew strength from the Mass and spiritual communion, which helped alleviate the suffering of the terminal phase of her illness. We also learned of the death of the person who took care of her, a fact that accentuated her loneliness. In this other pain, she told us, Radio Maria was her consolation and source of strength in prayer. Moved, we all prayed for this sister of ours in our headquarters and we put her in contact with the director who supported her spiritually in her last weeks until the day that she went to the Father’s house. The miracle, however, was that her URGENCY in seeking to communicate with Radio Maria was not to talk about herself, a person of firm faith. This sister’s concern was having heard that Radio Maria was experiencing serious technical difficulties and was in great economic need. Knowing that her time was limited, she called to accelera-

María Lidia Hernández, San Salvador, El Salvador My name is María Lidia Hernández and I come from the parish of St. Aloysius Gonzaga. Radio Maria means a lot to me. I would say that it was the strongest support I had to overcome my son’s death because, through that event, I came to the station and learned about Radio Maria for the first time. I came with my mother who is a faithful listener and wanted to know where the Radio Maria headquarters were. I also listened to it sometimes, but not as much as she did. My son died on 13 August 2017. I felt the need to seek God and seek Mary, our blessed Mother, the first among those who suffer because she saw her Son suffer out of love for all humanity. So I said that I also had to get closer to our Mother Mary. I have always been a Catholic and have been a good servant of God in our parish. I needed to look for God and so I told my mother that we would go to find the Radio Maria station. I didn’t know how to get there, I told her, but we’ll ask and find it. At the station, I shared my sorrow with my brother Marvín Lopez and my sister Iris. I shared what had happened to me, my son’s death, and how I was struggling to deal with it, but that I was waiting for God’s will, that He would help me to overcome the pain. I also said that it would come about

125

126

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO OF COMPANIONSHIP

through the hand of our most holy Mother Mary because she brings us to her Son with the power of the Holy Spirit. I am working through it and that is what I have said to many people who are going through the same sorrow as me. I invite everyone, all the brothers and sisters who listen to Radio Maria and especially those who are going through what I went through to truly take the hand of our Mother Mary and of this Radio because it was a very special inspiration for me. Our Lady herself has led me. I invite you, brothers and sisters who are going through this moment of mourning, to turn on this Radio and fill yourselves with God because, without him, you cannot fill that void. Radio Maria has been a consolation for me. It has helped me overcome my suffering.

I got to know about Radio Maria.” Of course I had time! She continued: “A little over three years ago I was given a basic DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) radio. I listened to my usual station with the new radio. A little after that, my grandson came to visit me. He was excited by my new radio and explained that more channels could be stored. I didn’t know anything about that, I was almost 80 at the time. Together we chose different stations and my grandson programmed the ones I wanted: news, a local station, classical music, and so on.” “Then my grandson said, ‘So, grandma, there’s still a button free that you can program.’ So, we continued scanning for channels. ‘Stop,’ I told him. ‘Am I hearing right? Is that prayer?’ My grandson said, ‘It’s called Radio Maria.’ Radio Maria? I had never heard of it. We kept listening for a while and I immediately knew that I wanted this channel memorized in the last place still available.” “Since then, Radio Maria has become my favorite station. It’s so nice to be able to pray together. Through the many broadcasts, my faith has deepened, and I learn new things. I always feel connected to so many people. And you know,” the elderly lady told me, “God himself has given me the gift of listening to Radio Maria! It’s so wonderful!” “Yes,” I replied, “God works many miracles.” I was truly touched by the joy that came to me from that listener—such joy for God’s work and joy for Radio Maria!

Mr. Englebert, farmer, Austria Radio Maria in the stables I also want to thank Radio Maria. I am a farmer and I even had the radio installed in the stables on an old satellite system. That way, I can listen to Radio Maria in the house and in the barns. Already early in the morning I am praying with you. What a great gift!

Anonimus, Switzerland A listener contacted our offices to order a radio, which she wanted to give to someone she knew. It was already the fifth radio that she wanted to give away. During the phone call, she asked: “Do you have some time? I’d like to tell you how

127

128

A SCHOOL OF FAITH

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A SCHOOL OF FAITH

“I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike.” Mt 11:25

Compared to the rest of today's media, the radio is a simple tool rooted in the spoken word. We always keep in mind the words of the Apostle Paul: "faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ" (Rm 10:17). The teachings of the Church and a fidelity to the pope's Magisterium make every Radio Maria a source of spiritual knowledge. This all leads to a religious enrichment that helps every listener grow and thus comforts the souls of all persons, who are always thirsting for God.

129

130

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Anonymous, Belgium Radio Maria is my very favorite radio station. It is so passionately dedicated to the Mother of God, the Virgin Mary. Every day, when you turn on the radio, you can feel it; any day, at any hour! For me, it is a “Living Church”, living proof that the Lord comes very, very close to your heart, soul, and mind whether you are at home, in the car, at work. We are very, very grateful to Radio Maria, and all of its co-workers and volunteers. We have received countless graces and blessings, especially during Holy Mass, which I try to follow in unity with the priest and in unity with the Lord, who lives in my soul. Mass is the highlight of my day. It is the most important moment because, silently in my heart, I can worship God in the Holy Eucharist. So much meditation and so many payers are made possible because of Radio Maria. Also, the testimonies and other programs bring me knowledge and great joy. All of it brings me closer to God and to our dear heavenly Mother! Often, I suffer a lot, but thanks to Radio Maria’s divine work, I live to see the special graces of the Lord. Our Lady is a real support in my life and I learn more about her through the testimonies of the saints. I thank Radio Maria for the beautiful, often heavenly music! I feel touched, especially after Holy Mass, as I feel one with the Lord. The grace of sacred music is important for the soul! So, yes, Radio Maria works. I also thank Radio Maria for helping me to have a deeper personal relation with the Lord and Our Lady, rooted in the beauty and richness of our faith. It is true grace from the Father that so many faithful can enjoy His true love for each of us through Radio Maria! What a grace!

A SCHOOL OF FAITH

Rita, Gyumri, Armenia Every day, at all hours, I listen to your programs. Radio Maria is a book for me; I want to read it all the time. I have even devoted a poem to Radio Maria: The day has come that I am to praise you, Open my heart and place it before you, You nourish me and I become stronger With your hope and light. Whatever I don’t know I shall learn from you, I shall learn from you, be satisfied with your words, Not be alone in this empty world. Whoever listens to your programs, Surely one day will return back to you. You have become the water of my life. You are just right when I’m upset, You are my comforter and benefactor, May you live long years. I listen to your radio regardless of whether I am at work or at home. Your radio is always with me. The ‘Eco-Morning’ program, for instance, is my school. Peace in the human soul comes from spiritual programs. Programs about the Holy Spirit have taught me that, in the most difficult moments, when you are about to fall into an abyss, you should trust in him, and life will become eternity. I have a colleague who belonged to a cult, but I was able to convince her to listen to your radio. Your radio has taught me how to live more easily. I want to absorb every word like a sponge. Every morning I pray with you. Whatever concerns are troubling me, when

131

132

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A SCHOOL OF FAITH

I hear your radio, it is as if that program was specifically directed at me, was made for me. I am sure that hundreds of people have experienced this. I have always glorified God, that—in a moment when I was about to make a mistake, when I wanted to hurt somebody with my words—I was patient and didn’t do it. Radio Mariam has given me patience. That patience, which is life, I have received from Radio Mariam. I am saying this in all honesty and responsibility. When you pray that our political leaders become kind and for the hearts of evil people to be converted, I think that the positive changes that we see in our country today are the results of those prayers. It was our prayers to God. I am thankful for your programs.

and life and she wished that everybody else might be able to listen and support the radio as well. She remembers, one day when her dad switched on the radio for no reason. She says it was her first time listening to the radio. She told us that she was happy with the program that was on because her family was going through a difficult period. Before they learned about Radio Maria, they had already decided to go to Pentecostal Churches, but that did not help them out and it all ended up being in vain. Then, remembering the first time when her dad switched on Radio Maria, she said there was a wonderful program talking about deliverance and healing. She said it was a special moment because everybody at home was listening. It was teaching about how good Catholics should behave spiritually and in all spheres of their life. Since then, she started listening to the radio every day and now she cannot do without it because of the diversity of its programs. It is because of Radio Maria that she has returned to being a staunch Catholic after having been diverted by the Pentecostal Church. Proscovia invites everyone to support Radio Maria’s apostolate because it makes Christians realize the faith that has been bestowed upon us by our Lord Jesus Christ. Everybody should play their part in sustaining the radio, since it is non-commercial. There is also a need to pray for all the beneficiaries of Radio Maria Uganda and especially the presenters who always work hard to provide good daily programs.

Tumwesigye Proscovia, Kampala, Uganda Tumwesigye Proscovia’s experience with Radio Maria is another story people will want to read about. This lady, a resident of Mutungo in Kampala, is a very active Catholic who totally loves her faith. You could listen to Radio Maria In Prossy’s shop. “I am very honored for Radio Maria to visit me this afternoon. Whenever I meet and interact with Radio Maria’s presenters I feel privileged.’’ That was how she expressed her joy when the radio paid her a courtesy visit. Proscovia was excited to testify that Radio Maria Uganda has changed her life in all its aspects. She said that the radio has the best programs to help Christians in all areas of their life. She acknowledged that, at this time in her life, she cannot do without Radio Maria in her family

133

134

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Perpetua Bernard, Mtwara, Tanzania I thank Radio Maria Tanzania and am very grateful to it. Through this radio, I have learned so many things. The first time I started listening to Radio Maria Tanzania was when I went to the Archdiocese of Songea for a WAWATA (our Catholic Women’s Association) trip. I then wondered how I would keep on receiving such teachings because Radio Maria was not available in Mtwara. Later, a Radio Maria Tanzania station was also set up in Mtwara and I was among those who first welcomed it. I was so happy and, frankly speaking, from then on, I have never stopped listening to Radio Maria Tanzania, especially the morning Program of “Mtakatifu wa leo” (Today’s Saint). That program teaches me almost everything I need to know because I also wish to become a saint. I am a nurse and it is my job to console people. This program teaches me about how best to do my work. This is possible because Fr. John Maendeleo’s program, teaches us how we can be better in our work to attain holiness. I invite people to listen to Radio Maria Tanzania and I pray that it will spread throughout the country to reach many more people. God bless Radio Maria Tanzania and its workers.

A SCHOOL OF FAITH

in my heart. They know my needs and my wants. Jesus is my best friend. I have given Our Lady my permission. I have handed over everything. I have also recently started some counselling. At my first session, I mentioned how Radio Maria is so important to me. My difficulty is that I have a fear that people will be closed off to me when they see or find out that I am blind. I guess this is something that I need to work on with God and my counsellor too, particularly when my faith teaches me that Jesus is in every person. It would be like me saying that even Jesus would reject me because I am blind when I know that that is totally untrue. I have really been feeling the joy of the risen Christ this Easter, especially as cantor last Sunday at my parish church. I am now putting together a little program of my own over the internet radio for the blind community and it is Radio Maria that has inspired me very much to do this. I am really enjoying and learning so much from Radio Maria and its spiritual teachings and the power of prayer. You have also given me the courage to go back to attend the church choir. Thank you, Fr. Eamonn, and God bless.

Belén, Argentina Sabrina, a blind listener, isolated and lonely, Ireland I really enjoyed being on air this evening, Fr Eamonn. That sure was a challenging discussion and has me questioning myself. God, the Holy Spirit, and Our Blessed Lady know what is

Building bridges of unity. Belén, an evangelical Christian sister who listened to Radio Maria Argentina during work and shared her witness with us. “We have a radio and at work I wanted to find a channel but I couldn’t. That’s how I found Radio Maria. I’ve been listening to it for some time now and it fills me with joy and

135

136

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A SCHOOL OF FAITH

peace. Because I belong to “another religion”—let’s say it that way, in quotes—to another faith, I couldn’t speak about Mary.” Belén commented that she considers Mary as an intercessor, although she cannot share that with her community. Her husband was the one who encountered Mary through the radio. “I only listen during my working hours because I can’t listen to it at any other time. But how beautiful it would be to build bridges of unity between you and us,” Belén says. Mary embraces her children in different ways. Belén shared with us how Mary’s love touched her pastor’s heart: “I have always prayed that he might believe in Mary, not just as an ordinary woman, but as Mary the intercessor, Mary the Mother, Mary the helper, and in Mary who gave her son Jesus for us. Now I am very happy because my pastor, due to a health problem he had to deal with, has come to believe in Mary and doesn’t speak about her like an ordinary woman. He no longer has contempt for the Virgin!” Belén wants to build bridges between all beliefs. She loves Mary and thanks her for “having chosen her and for having been able to tune into her station”.

ght that there had to be more, that this couldn’t be everything, that it’s too little. Then I found everything in Radio Maria. My life has changed. Before we were a rather chaotic family. But Radio Maria has brought order to our family and we also pray together now.

Mrs. Waltraud , Austria - Radio Maria changed my faith, my life, and my family I discovered Radio Maria about 5 years ago through an ad in the diocesan paper. I haven’t stopped listening since; I’ve been so fascinated by Radio Maria. I receive all my spiritual education from Radio Maria. Back then, my faith was very lukewarm. Somehow, I thou-

137

138

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO 8 THAT SHARES MIRACLES

A RADIO THAT SHARES MIRACLES

Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” Jn 1:50-51

Thousands of prayer intentions are entrusted to Radio Maria every day throughout the world. Our task is not only to hope in what comes "after", but to believe that the Lord, through Our Lady's intercession, will perform great wonders for each of us, always and everywhere. He responds to each prayer with infinite mercy, often in completely unexpected ways. Listeners testify to this every day.

139

140

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Wajdi Nassraween, Jordan This is to report an unusual case that happened on 26 April 2016 during the ceremony of taking down the crucifix on Good Friday at the Monastery of the Virgin Mary Fountain of Life in Debeen, Jordan. It was around 11:00 in the morning when I was testing the connection between the monastery’s control room and the Radio Mariam Studio in Rome with Samaan. We started to hookup the line in order to go live on air but, unfortunately, the audio signal was not recognized between the two devices. We tried and failed many times to establish any connection. Suddenly, without any hardwire connection between the two devices, we received the signal from Amman and got connected via nothing to start broadcasting the Mass live on air to Rome. Semaan confirmed to me that the broadcast was successful, but it was a strange connection as the wire link was not connected at all. As a matter of fact, the wire was in my hand instead of being hooked up. Then, Semaan phoned me to report that all his devices had stopped working except the live broadcast from Amman. The broadcast was live and clear while the wire was still not connected at all. The connection continued for five continuous hours, broadcasting the holy day Mass and prayers for Good Friday. God bless you all, Best regards.

Nicolás and Constanza, Santiago, Chile During the first half of 2009, after many expectations and much longing, my wife Constanza had the good news that

A RADIO THAT SHARES MIRACLES

we were expecting a baby. This news, of course, filled us with joy because it was something we had wanted so much. Constanza first had a major operation to remove a large fibroid tumor and then had an ectopic pregnancy that caused her to lose a Fallopian tube, which made it very difficult for her to get pregnant. So, this pregnancy, which seemed normal, immediately made us think that all the previous difficulties were just a bitter memory. In the 12th week of gestation, however, during an ultrasound examination, the doctor warned us that something did not seem normal. There was a type of malformation that could compromise the life of the foetus and that it was likely that the pregnancy would not come to term or that, once the baby was born, there would be the possibility of an untimely death. The news was devastating, but we had to fight for our son to be well and we began asking God for help in prayer. Radio Maria was fundamental. We were welcomed by the director at the time, Fr. Raul Arcila, and by all the volunteers. During the Rosary, at Mass, and at all times when daily community prayers were held, our intentions were always shared. From that moment, something happened. My faith became stronger than ever. I truly felt the power of the Holy Spirit present in our lives. A series of unusual events, signs, and experiences occurred and, after a few weeks, the doctor was going to give us the definitive diagnosis. On the day of our meeting with the doctor, we were very worried, but our faith was so great that we had the conviction that something would happen. It was a unique moment, difficult to explain. We were at peace because we knew that it didn’t matter what the doctor would say. We were convinced that God had already worked in some way.

141

142

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO THAT SHARES MIRACLES

At the end of the visit, the gynecologist told us that he didn’t see anything strange, that the images no longer showed traces of malformations and that the foetus was completely normal. The joy of those who have experienced all this up close was overwhelming. We were completely certain that it was a miracle. Without a doubt, the Virgin and St. Joseph had interceded in this supernatural work. Our son, José Santiago, was born on 1 October 2009, completely happy. Today he is a happy child who, along with his three brothers who make up our blessed family, fills us with joy.

been given. We are invited to change our perspective and to do so seeing with God’s eyes, looking beyond the objectivity of events. The biopsy confirmed what the doctors had said. Since one of my doctors is also my son-in-law, they gathered and talked to my daughters and asked me to undergo chemotherapy. I refused, but on my daughters’ insisting, I accepted. So, I started the procedure and put my hope in the hands of the Lord and in the prayers of my family. It was a great experience of communion. The invitation to prayer was extended to our public, to convents, and other communities. In a great show of solidarity and love, they all knelt down to ask for the intercession of our saints, Mariana of Jesus Torres y Beriochoa of the Conceptionists and St. Narcisa de Jesús and Our Lady of the Good Event. I reflected on our mission to keep hope alive in others and which, at that moment, was supporting me, thanks to the invisible thread of faith and love present in our great family. My third therapy session caused an intestinal occlusion. They were going to have to operate on me again because, surely, the tumour had spread to my intestines. Within, I knew that that wasn’t the case. They told me that the operation would take about 5 hours and that then they would take me to the ICU. In the end, the operation only lasted an hour and a half. They were amazed. My organs were completely clean. There was no trace of the disease. I think that the Lord wanted them to see. Two or three of the doctors exclaimed, “This is a miracle”. Now, three years later, the time has come to bear witness to our God’s love, the source from which all grace flows and who, as a loving Father, watches over all those who serve him.

Mayra Ribadeneira, Ecuador On my return from the World Family Convention in 2015, I experienced some discomfort so I went to my doctor who ordered various examinations, including one of my stomach. When I came out from under the anaesthesia, I saw that my oncologist was looking at me sadly. I immediately understood that something was wrong. I smiled and said, “Well, tell me what you’ve found”. Very tenderly, he took my hand and said, “You have cancer. We took samples to do a biopsy and confirm what we fear”. Other doctors came in and I asked how much time I had left. They shook their heads, looked at one another, and said, “As it stands, from six weeks to six months”. I was full of peace. I thought I would have time to tidy up my affairs. I asked them not to be sad because I was willing to meet the Lord. Perhaps it wasn’t the answer they expected, but for those who proclaim over the radio that God brings hope, we can only give thanks to God for all that we have

143

144

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

A RADIO THAT TRAINS DISCIPLES

RADIO CHE FORMA DISCEPOLI

“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Mt 28:19

The Church's most important mission is certainly that of saving souls. Radio Maria's mission is to awaken and strengthen the missionary sense of faithful adherence to Christ in each baptized person, that is, to live our Baptism so that we may grow and became strong in spirit (see Lk 1:80). Every day, Radio Maria teaches how to pray, act, respond, bear witness, and live the life of a good Christian.

145

146

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Vikica Gašpar-Radak , Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina My name is Vikica Gašpar-Radak and I am from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. I was born in the Republic of Croatia in 1951. When I was 20, I married a man who was a year older than I was and we came to live in Sarajevo. We had a son. After 10 years of marriage, my husband came home from work one day and told me that he had fallen in love with another women and that he would leave. His idea was to take our child from me and force me to leave Sarajevo. He succeeded in taking our son away since I didn’t have an apartment or any financial means. After this happened, I found a job and was able to rent an apartment, but he still wanted me to leave Sarajevo and tried to pressure me in different ways. He would come and threaten me, so that even the police had to be called on nearly a daily basis. One evening when he came, and the police had to intervene again, my landlord told me that he couldn’t tolerate the situation any longer and that I had to leave the apartment. At the time I told myself loudly: “Put your head up, God will help you. You can find a place under a bridge for the night and tomorrow is a new day!“ My boss heard me say that, since he was there when that incident happened, and he told me: “You are not going to sleep under a bridge. You can sleep over at my place.” The next day we made an agreement where I would take care of his house and cooking and in return I could live there, as this was the only way I would be protected from my husband who was haunting me. I have now spent thirty years living sharing a house with a man who was everything I wasn’t. He

RADIO CHE FORMA DISCEPOLI

was a communist, 20 years older than me, and he lived his life by the motto: “The communist party, my comrades, and nobody else!” I am a practical believer and my life motto is: “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind and your neighbor as yourself“. The citizens of Sarajevo love this man, since he is a humanist even though he is an atheist, but his parents baptized him in an Orthodox church when he was a child. He was fine with me going to church for Sunday services and would even let the priest come and bless our home, but he would not pray: that was absolutely out of the question. In 1992 the war broke out in Bosnia and Herzegovina and his eldest son was badly wounded. It was a matter of life and death and even the doctors told him that there was very little chance his son would survive. I resolutely knelt down and prayed. He asked me: “Do you really think that that would save him?“ I answered “Yes, I do believe it and you should pray together with me and you will see. Jesus has left us his mother Mary to be our mother and every mother takes care of her children. Your son is her child as well and she will take care of him if you only ask her wholeheartedly.” God was at work. The hardcore communist and atheist began to pray the rosary three times a day with me. After 10 days, the doctors told him that his son was recovering and would be able to leave the hospital soon. When he heard that, he began crying for joy and asking how many years has he spent in conflict and vanity? From that moment until he died, he would go with me to Sunday service in the Catholic Church. He asked me to promise him, when he died, that I would take care that he would have a Christian funeral service, and

147

148

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

RADIO CHE FORMA DISCEPOLI

I kept that promise. He decided to marry me in a civil wedding, so I could inherit his apartment when he dies. My first husband had already died and soon after my second husband also died. I was alone, with my son gone to the USA, and so I became retired and a widow. In 2014, when I was going to Mass, I noticed a Radio Maria sign on a building and that is how I came to find out about this radio existing in Sarajevo. Listening to this radio, I became a faithful listener who calls-in daily on the contact-shows. I also recommend listening to Radio Mariaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs on the station to others, especially the elderly and lonely and people who are abandoned by everyone. Many of them followed my advice and became listeners who support Radio Mariaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work. Some of them started going back to church again after many years. God touched their souls and they returned to him. Not only am I a faithful Radio Maria listener and donor but I am also a volunteer. For four years now, once in a week, I regularly tidy up the chapel and the Radio Maria premises. I am joyful and happy that I have the chance to do some good and can, in that way, create an opportunity for others who listen to Radio Maria to experience their own moment of joyous life.

ciety and, consequently, for the collaboration with institutions that care for the poor, the marginalized, and those in any other situation of need. I am a young man suffering from spastic tetraplegia from birth. I am forced to live in a wheelchair because I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the use of my legs or a hand. My most sincere desire would have been to work actively with Radio Maria, which I have always listened to every day and from which I draw not only so much comfort as well as so much light in my growth in faith. Not being able to do so because of my physical impediment, I have recourse to daily prayer and to a diligent attendance of the sacrament of Communion. I have prayed and will continue to pray for an ever-greater diffusion of Radio Maria in the world so that its teaching under the maternal guidance of the Virgin Mary may enlighten and accompany more and more people on the path of conversion. Being able to do, at least, this, I will send a very modest contribution to the costs of opening a Radio Maria in the country were the Mother of Our Lord was born and lived. Radio Maria is a wealth for Christian families, representing a sure guide not only through listening to the sacred functions but also through its many programs rooted in a Christian vision of the world and its needs. Personally, I can say that, from listening to it daily, I have also drawn the inner strength to fully accept my condition in obedience to those divine salvific plans that are, for the moment, inscrutable. I often think that, if with the sacrifice of my existence and with my prayers, even one soul can be saved, then my life will have been neither empty nor vain. Your brother in Christ.

Luigi, Catanzaro, Italy First of all, I send a warm thanks for all the precious work of evangelization that the Radio has been carrying out for decades in the world. Thank you for your guidance, support, and comfort to so many sick persons or people whose disabilities do not allow for a normal life of integration into so-

149

150

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Nicolas Romero, taxi driver, Mexico For several years, Nicolas Romero has been a volunteer promoting Radio Maria and he does so in his taxi, a vehicle that has become an instrument of evangelization. “I’ve always listened to Radio Maria. I was attracted to it when I started driving the taxi. I went to Radio Maria and, together with another colleague, we started to make a group of Mary’s taxi drivers. I started by inviting all the people I was transporting to listen to Radio Maria. It helped me a lot because I committed myself to the Blessed Virgin Mary and I felt her spiritual support and, in concrete terms, the need to do things for God.” How do you promote Radio Maria in your taxi? First, I see the customers and start chatting briefly with them. Then, if they mention any of their problems to me, I suggest that they listen to Radio Maria. With many people, especially women who have problems, I take them to the Blessed Sacrament and they cry before God’s presence.”

Maria Elena Barrios de Mujica, Caracas, Venezuela “When I was in the evangelical Church, I felt a great emptiness. I was missing something. I didn’t feel comple te. Faced with that emptiness and need for God that every human being has, someone told me: “There is a radio station called Radio Maria. Listen to it and pray the Rosary!” I tuned into the station when it had been broadcasting for about six months and my interest was immediately captured by the priest who was directing the program “On the Way to Catechism”.

RADIO CHE FORMA DISCEPOLI

María Elena Barrios de Mujica, the current president of Radio Maria Venezuela, shares her story. She, like other listeners, is the result of the first evangelization of this Catholic radio station in Caracas. She says that, at first, she paid more attention to the teaching of the program on the Church’s catechism, but, “when praying the Rosary as a sign of respect for Mary came on, I lowered the volume” because that is what I had been taught in the evangelical Church, which was against reciting the Rosary. It went on like that for eight months, but “the Virgin did her job”, María Elena recounts with faith. “On one occasion, they said that they needed volunteers and, since I had worked in advertising and marketing, I said, “Well, maybe in my line of work I can make a contribution to this station that has fascinated me and transformed my life”. Later, she got to more deeply know the station and the Mother of God and began to pray and promote the Rosary. Soon afterward, she was invited to become an associate member, to better support the radio. After three years as a volunteer and associate member, María Elena Barrios became a member of the board. Then she was proposed as president of the station, a position she has held since November of 2011. Since then she has worked hard to revitalize the station without ignoring its identity. “I have tried to refresh it and open its doors to all those who want to come to Mary’s house,” she says. Today, she is full of joy to serve God through the Blessed Mother at the station that has helped so many people and is also a means of companionship for many who are alone. She says that she experiences Mary’s love in her life and in her apostolate and hopes that many people will come to know and love Jesus’ Mother more.

151

152

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

RADIO CHE FORMA DISCEPOLI

Marcelo, General Alvear, Mendoza, Argentina

most every day to advertise the Radio and participate in the Mariathon.” We asked what he would say to someone to encourage them to participate. “Pray. Ask your Mother Mary and Jesus to give you the strength. There are many people suffering all over the world. There are people who are persecuted for being Christians and Catholics. We have martyrs for the faith. That is why we have to go out, with faith, to meet our brothers and sisters,” he said, greatly encouraging the listeners of Radio Maria in Argentina.

Marcelo and his wife Liliana participated in the Mariathon praying, making the radio known in their area, and obtaining donations for Radio Maria projects around the world. He tells us that, for 30 years, he was in another Church, but that after his father’s death, he found Radio Maria and that led to his conversion. “My father was very devout and listened to Radio Maria every day. When he was admitted to the hospital, he spoke to me of the saints, of Mary, and of what he heard on Radio Maria about the Rosary, but I didn’t pay any attention to him and I wasn’t a believer. One day, after my father’s death, while I was cleaning his house, I turned on the radio and Radio Maria was there. I began to listen and, little by little, I started to pray with the radio.” At that moment, he understood that the prayers of his mother, his father, his sister, his wife, and the Virgin had led him to convert. Through the radio, what was initially of little importance to Marcel was transformed into a daily apostolate, which he shares with his wife. Now, both Liliana and Marcelo actively participate in the Mariathon. “My wife already worked with Radio Maria and, when we received the letter from the station inviting us to the Mariathon, even if we didn’t know much about it, we started talking about it with relatives and acquaintances. We made photocopies of the material, we prayed, and we went out with Liliana to visit neighbors with a picture of Our Lady that my sister had given me. We also spoke with the mayor and councillors, with many people, and collected donations for the Radio Maria projects around the world. We go out al-

Francisca del Carmen Aburto Largaespada, Managua, Nicaragua My name is Francisca del Carmen Aburto Largaespada and I live in Managua. I can easily say that I am a founder of Radio Maria because I have been listening to it since it started broadcasting. I really like Radio Maria’s programs, they get to the bottom of life and all their advice helps. I spend 24 hours a day listening to the radio and never turn it off. I listen to all the programs and like them very much. I also like the beautiful witnesses that people share on the radio. I like everything they say because they evangelize through their programs and, thanks to that, my life has changed. I used to be a very proud person. When you find yourself facing horrible crises like the ones I went through, you react, but, little by little, I changed with the help of Radio Maria. I try hard to pray the Rosary every day with the radio at 6:00am, at noon, and in the evening. But at 5:00am, I listen to the radio and am happy to hear “A Coffee with Mary” be-

153

154

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

RADIO CHE FORMA DISCEPOLI

cause the young hosts transmit their joy and teach us new things. I also listen to all the programs they broadcast during the day and I stay happy because Fr. José Antonio manages to infect us with his enthusiasm. When I was invited to give my witness, I was happy because the Lord asks us to speak about what He does for us and I am happy to know that my Radio Maria makes space for listeners to share God’s works in us with others. I am also teaching my grandchildren about love for the Virgin and for Radio Maria so that they can share their testimony and work so that the radio can continue to broadcast for many years.

from an adult woman. She asked for prayers for her 11-year-old grandson, saying that the boy had lost the joy of living, didn’t want to study, did nothing, and was afraid. When she was asked: ‘And where is his mother?’ the grandmother replied: ‘She is the one who mistreats the child.’ At that moment, I could see myself in that situation. My heart broke from the pain and I began to cry. As soon as I came back to myself, I made a commitment to always pray for others. So much pain can be caused when you don’t know God. I am convinced that prayer is a powerful weapon protecting us in the circumstances of our lives when everything seems lost and there is no way out. Then faith starts to open a path (I say this from my own experience…). I believe and am convinced that God is the only one who can find the benefit for us in difficult situations. Mother Rosa Inés, I’ve worked on a piece of jute fabric that has 7.500 holes for you. While I was weaving it, I thought of all the intentions that you receive on your program and, every time I worked on it, I also prayed for those people and for all of you, even if I’ve never met you. I want you to know that you are in my prayers.” After this letter, Mother Rosa Inés visited Juan José. “We went to visit him. We embraced and both cried. He is still in prison now, but he has become a dedicated volunteer [formichina, little ant] for Radio Maria and an apostle of Mary in that environment. He prays the Rosary with those who want it. I told him: ‘Our Lady brought you here for something and you will not leave here until you have built a prayer group that will continue to pray the Rosary’.”

Prisoner in the San Juan de Lurigancho penitentiary, Lima, Perù Mother Rosa Inés of the Dominicans of the Presentation hosts “Weaving Mary’s Mantle”, a program to pray for listeners’ intentions. This witness comes from a letter written in August 2016 by one of our listeners. My name is Juan José [*his name has been changed] and I have been in jail since 2011. What matters is that God can make people good in spite of their turbulent past… Dear Mother Rosa Inés, for the past year and a half I have been listening to your beautiful program, ‘Weaving Mary’s Mantle’. Every time I listened to it, I prayed in my heart for my wife Nella, for my son Fabrizio, for my father and my brothers and sisters, my aunts and uncles, my in-laws, etc. But it was strange, at least at first, to pray for people I don’t know until one afternoon, listening to the program, I heard a phone call

155

156

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

RADIO CHE FORMA DISCEPOLI

Nidia Calvo and Miss Yamileth Espinoza, Costa Rica Shortly after Radio Maria opened its doors in Costa Rica, 13 years ago, Miss Nidia and Miss Yamileth, seeking to strengthen their faith and hope, knocked on the doors of our house and joined our family of volunteers. Since then, they have performed different functions, witnessing our stationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth and sharing, step by step, each of its phases. They tell us about their joy in seeing the station go from an AM to an FM frequency, the stimulus generated by the improvements in the headquarters and in the chapel that welcomes those who visit us. Now they are dedicated volunteers (formichine, little ants), donors, and part of the missionary family. Both of them point out how much Radio Maria Costa Rica has been an instrument to strengthen their faith and hope, accompanying them through the different paths of their lives and becoming part of them. Miss Nidia and Miss Yamileth have been beside Radio Maria Costa Rica, accompanying it just as they once saw several generations of children grow up, because they were teachers. They are mothers, wives, and women dedicated to Our Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s project.

157

158

RADIO MARIA - TESTIMONIES

Editorial Team Bernhard Mitterrutzner (bernhard.m@radiomaria.org) Michela Burdino (michela.burdino@radiomaria.org) Daniele Trenca (daniele.trenca@radiomaria.org) Contributors to this publication Fr. Livio Fanzaga (WFRM Directors’ Advisor) Vittorio Viccardi (WFRM President) H.E. Mons. José Ignacio Munilla (Bishop of San Sebastian Diocese) H. Em. Card. Christoph Schönborn (Metropolitan Archbishop of Vienna) … and all the listeners of Radio Maria in the world ! Graphic and layout Creative Hub Photographic material Historical Archive of World Family of Radio Maria Onlus Association Translations Teresa Bustelo (ESP) Ingrid Courbet (FRA) Susan Dawson Vásquez (ENG) Claudia Köck (DEU) Print Tipografia Ferrari-Auer (BZ) 2019 All rights reserved Reproduction, even partial, is forbidden

EUROPE Via Valassina, 40 22036 Erba (CO) – ITALIA Tel: +39 031 2073350 E-mail: info.wf@radiomaria.org Via Rusticucci, 13 00193 Roma – ITALIA Tel: + 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 Tel/Fax +255 222700871 E-mail: africa@radiomaria.org AMERICA 21 Oliver Street, New York NY 10038 – USA Tel: +1 212 2338040, +1 718 4170550 Fax: +1 212 2338046 E-mail: wfny@radiomariainternet.us www.radiomaria.org

159