Mother Angelica: Mother Angelica, born Rita Antoinette Rizzo, was a remarkable nun who left an indelible mark on the world through her dedication to faith, entrepreneurship, and broadcasting. As the founder of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), she became a prominent figure in the Catholic Church.
While many are familiar with her public persona, there are lesser-known facets of her life that contribute to the fascinating tapestry of Mother Angelica’s journey. In this blog post, we will explore 11 interesting untold facts about the nun.
1. Early Life Struggles:
Mother Angelica’s childhood was marked by poverty and a challenging family situation. Raised in Canton, Ohio, she grew up in a broken family, facing financial hardships. Despite these difficulties, she found solace in her Catholic faith and developed a strong connection with God from an early age.
2. Call to Religious Life:
In 1944, at the age of 21, Rita felt a profound calling to religious life. She entered the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration, a contemplative order of nuns. This marked the beginning of her journey toward a life dedicated to prayer and service.
3. Founding EWTN with $200:
Mother Angelica’s entrepreneurial spirit became evident when she founded EWTN in 1981 with just $200. What started as a small garage operation evolved into a global Catholic television network, reaching millions of viewers around the world.
4. Miraculous Healing:
Mother Angelica experienced a miraculous healing after a severe back injury. She attributed her recovery to divine intervention, solidifying her belief in the power of prayer and strengthening her resolve to spread the Catholic faith through various mediums, including television.
5. Feisty Personality:
Known for her feisty and determined personality, Mother Angelica was unafraid to speak her mind. Her straightforward approach and no-nonsense attitude garnered both admiration and criticism, but she remained steadfast in her commitment to her convictions.
6. EWTN’s Growth:
Under Mother Angelica’s leadership, EWTN grew exponentially, expanding its reach and programming. The network became a powerful tool for evangelization, broadcasting a wide range of religious content, including Mass, documentaries, and talk shows.
7. Suffering and Redemptive Value:
Mother Angelica understood the redemptive value of suffering, and she embraced physical ailments as a means of drawing closer to Christ. Her teachings emphasized the importance of finding purpose in suffering and turning it into a source of spiritual growth.
8. Authorship and Publishing:
In addition to her work in broadcasting, Mother Angelica was a prolific author. She wrote several books, sharing her insights on faith, prayer, and the challenges of living a Christian life. Her written works continue to inspire readers worldwide.
9. Ecclesiastical Approval and Support:
Mother Angelica faced challenges within the Church, including skepticism and opposition. However, as EWTN gained popularity and demonstrated its impact on spreading Catholic teachings, she eventually received support from the Vatican and ecclesiastical authorities.
10. Legacy of Prayer and Perseverance:
Mother Angelica’s legacy extends beyond the physical realm of EWTN. Her commitment to prayer and perseverance in the face of adversity serve as an enduring inspiration for individuals seeking spiritual strength and resilience.
11. Canonization Cause:
Mother Angelica passed away in 2016, but her impact lives on. In 2020, the Vatican opened her cause for canonization, recognizing her profound contributions to the Catholic Church and her potential status as a saint.
Conclusion
Mother Angelica’s life is a testament to the transformative power of faith, resilience, and determination. From her humble beginnings to the global reach of EWTN, her journey is a source of inspiration for believers and non-believers alike. As we reflect on these 11 untold facts about Mother Angelica, we gain a deeper appreciation for the woman behind the TV screen—a nun whose unwavering faith and entrepreneurial spirit left an indelible mark on the world.
WRITTEN BY ALEX
FAQs and answers
FAQ 1: Who Was Mother Angelica?
Q: Who was Mother Angelica, and why is she significant?
A: Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, PCPA (1923–2016), was a Catholic nun and founder of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). She became a global religious media personality, known for her charismatic preaching and dedication to spreading Catholic teachings. Her work revolutionized Catholic media, making her one of the most influential nuns of the 20th century.
Reference: EWTN
FAQ 2: What Inspired Mother Angelica to Start EWTN?
Q: What inspired Mother Angelica to create the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN)?
A: Mother Angelica was inspired to start EWTN in 1981 after witnessing the lack of Catholic programming on television. She wanted to create a platform to share Catholic teachings and counter secular media’s influence. Starting with a small garage studio, EWTN grew into a global network reaching millions.
Reference: National Catholic Register
FAQ 3: Did Mother Angelica Face Challenges in Building EWTN?
Q: Did Mother Angelica face any challenges while building EWTN?
A: Yes, Mother Angelica faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties, health issues, and skepticism from others. Despite these obstacles, her unwavering faith and determination led to the success of EWTN, which now broadcasts in over 145 countries.
Reference: Catholic News Agency
FAQ 4: What Are Some Untold Facts About Mother Angelica?
Q: What are some lesser-known facts about Mother Angelica?
A: Few know that Mother Angelica suffered from chronic health issues, including a spinal injury that left her in pain for years. She also had a great sense of humor and was known for her witty remarks. Additionally, she was a skilled businesswoman, managing EWTN’s growth while maintaining her religious vows.
Reference: Our Sunday Visitor
FAQ 5: How Did Mother Angelica Impact Catholic Media?
Q: How did Mother Angelica change the landscape of Catholic media?
A: Mother Angelica pioneered Catholic media by creating EWTN, which provided 24/7 Catholic programming, including Mass, talk shows, and educational content. Her work made Catholic teachings accessible to a global audience, inspiring countless individuals to deepen their faith.
Reference: America Magazine
FAQ 6: What Was Mother Angelica’s Legacy?
Q: What is Mother Angelica’s lasting legacy?
A: Mother Angelica’s legacy includes the establishment of EWTN, her inspirational writings, and her impact on Catholic evangelization. She is remembered for her boldness, faith, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Reference: Catholic World Report
FAQ 7: How Can I Learn More About Mother Angelica?
Q: Where can I find more information about Mother Angelica’s life and work?
A: You can learn more about Mother Angelica through books like Mother Angelica: The Remarkable Story of a Nun, Her Nerve, and a Network of Miracles by Raymond Arroyo, or by visiting EWTN’s official website, which features her shows and writings.
Reference: EWTN Mother Angelica Page
