The saints use whatever media they have to spread the Gospel message.

St. Paul wrote letters. St. Maximilian Kolbe used the radio. Venerable Fulton Sheen used television.

Their mission continues in our time through ordinary Christians who find creative ways to evangelize through mass media.

A remarkably successful example is Relevant Radio, the third largest radio company in the U.S. by unique daytime reach.

Broadcasting on over 220 stations across the U.S. and streaming globally via its free mobile app — which has been downloaded more than 1.2 million times in all 50 states and 192 countries — Relevant Radio brings hope and inspiration through informative, engaging, and interactive programming.

Relevant Radio recently celebrated 25 years since its first broadcast. It’s had extraordinary reach in that time, including the following:

• 282 million Americans reached across the country

• 12 million annual users across broadcast, digital, and app

• More than 3 million app downloads

• Its app is the #1 free Catholic app

But the numbers that matter most are even more extraordinary. Relevant Radio’s inspiring content brings people back to their faith and inspires them to live a Catholic life.

Here are the jaw-dropping results of a recent listener survey:

• 91% were inspired to pray more

• 75% shared the faith with others

• 46% increased Mass attendance

• 62% went to Confession

• 28% volunteered at their parish or with another ministry

• 10% came back to the Church

Each of those numbers represents a living, breathing human soul. A soul made in God’s image and destined for eternity.

The impact of so many people growing in faith cannot be measured on a human scale, but its effects are eternal.

Father Francis Joseph Hoffman, “Fr. Rocky,” Chairman and CEO of Relevant Radio, said:

The journey of Relevant Radio is a beautiful story of faith, perseverance, and the abundant blessings of Our Lord. 

It’s remarkable to look back at its simple and humble beginnings. It all began with a mother’s request to her son:

By the late 1990s Mother Angelica of EWTN was telling her nightly audience, “If you buy a radio station, I will give you our programming for free.” 

Across the country, ordinary faithful responded to the call, including John Cavil of Green Bay, whose mother Janice called him in from the kitchen while watching EWTN and said, “John, can you buy a radio station so we can broadcast Mother Angelica’s programs here in Green Bay?”

Soon, other Catholic businessmen joined him, and the new station received its first radio license in December 2000 as “Christ the King Communications.” Although the original intent was to broadcast EWTN television programs, they quickly realized that live and interactive talk radio had more appeal.

The name was changed to “Relevant Radio” in 2003, the same year that Fr. Rocky joined the team as a radio show host. He assumed leadership of the organization in 2009.

Relevant Radio celebrated its 25th anniversary on December 12, honoring both the feast of its patroness, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the very same day when Relevant Radio received its first broadcast license.

The evening event began with Solemn Mass at the historic St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church in Chicago, followed by a formal dinner at the Hilton Chicago. The distinguished guest of honor, Msgr. James Shea, President of the University of Mary and priest of the Diocese of Bismarck, ND, was recognized as the 35th recipient of the Relevant Radio “Christ Brings Hope” Award.

Fr. Rocky said, “This anniversary celebration is an opportunity to give thanks to God for all that has been accomplished and to joyfully look forward to the future.”

Learn more about Relevant Radio here, and join the millions who listen daily and find encouragement for their Catholic faith.