IRONDALE, Ala. — EWTN Global Catholic Network announced today the end of its shortwave radio service, WEWN, after 34 years of operation. The decision, approved by EWTN’s Board of Governors, will take effect Oct. 31, 2026.
Launched on Dec. 28, 1992, WEWN was EWTN’s first radio service, offering Catholic programming to national and international listeners in geographic regions where access to other forms of media was often limited. It also served as a catalyst for EWTN’s expansion into international television operations beginning in 1995. Since then, EWTN’s 11 global television channels and numerous regional channels have reached audiences in more than 160 countries and territories. EWTN Radio has grown to become an extensive network with over 600 AM/FM stations worldwide as well as satellite and digital platforms.
“Over the last 34 years, our shortwave radio operations played a foundational role in the global expansion of EWTN’s evangelization efforts. Many souls have been reached through WEWN’s transmissions,” said Michael P. Warsaw, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of EWTN. “As we shift the use of shortwave to newer and more far-reaching distribution channels, we remain grateful for the co-workers and benefactors who sustained the service for so long and committed to expanding access to faithful Catholic content.”
Warsaw particularly acknowledged his gratitude for the late Piet Derkson and his wife, Trudy, whose $26 million gift made the construction of WEWN possible and helped Mother Angelica, EWTN’s foundress, advance the network’s mission of sharing the truth of the Gospel around the world.
Several factors influenced EWTN’s decision to cease shortwave operations, including massive declines in listenership due to the wide availability of mobile phones, terrestrial and satellite radio, and digital platforms even in remote areas; antiquated transmission infrastructure; and high operating and maintenance costs.
EWTN ceased direct shortwave broadcasts targeted specifically at North America in 2008. In recent years, its English-language shortwave service reached audiences primarily in Africa and the Middle East. The Spanish-language shortwave coverage was directed to Latin America.
EWTN Radio’s content continues to reach these audiences through its digital platforms, online streaming services, mobile applications, podcasts, satellite distribution, and its extensive network of AM/FM affiliates.
(ETWN 10/30/2026)
