April 16, 2025

04-12-25 CC EDITION

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Dear Friends and Patrons,

 

After talking with a number of you about the future of the Carolina Catholic Media apostolate, some questions have been asked that need to be clarified.  This week I focus on the realities of today and the dreams for the future.  This is based on knowledge learned from ten years of experience conducting media missionary fieldwork across the Carolinas.  Let’s begin!

 

Who will operate the apostolate?  

I will continue operating until a new staff is put in place.  Our dream has been to have a professional media team work in conjunction with Student Activities and the Internship Department at Belmont Abbey College.  This model has been highly successful for many years at Emerson College, Boston. With all the talent we have witnessed at BAC along with aspiring local high school students, we believe this initiative for Carolina Catholic Media has a very bright future for generations to come!  

 

What is the status of AM1270 WCGC Belmont?

The radio station has been off the air (silent) since last May 2024.  We have a local radio station owner who has agreed to help finance turning the station back on now and taking possession of the station this summer.  This will keep Carolina Catholic Media operating with 7 platforms in the future.

 

When will changes be implemented?

As volunteers are vetted and committed, we will add them to the Carolina Catholic Media staff in their areas of expertise per team designations under construction below.  

 

Where will we base operations?

We’re living in a virtual world.  7 Media platforms can be operated from anywhere… but the idea of a campus environment with student and professional staff synergy is the Carolina Catholic Media dream scenario.

 

Why do we need one-time gifts and monthly donations?

Even though Carolina Catholic Media turned off the radio station there are still bills to pay.  This ranges from rents to utilities and insurances to licensing/subscriptions/fees.  

 

How much do we need to raise to make this transition happen?

Carolina Catholic Media needs to raise $10,000 by June 30, 2025.  We ask all our parishes, schools and ministries to please consider tithing for this initiative to continue as your fiscal year comes to an end. Thank you for your prayerful consideration!

 

 

 

Volunteer Opportunities

 

MAKE A DIFFERENCE, GET INVOLVED WITH US!

 

Many hands make light work!  We need volunteers who believe in our mission to bring Carolina Catholic Media to every ear in the Charlotte Diocese and Upstate SC! What role are you called to play?

 

12 Teams Under Construction

 

    1. Finance/Fundraising/Grant Writing Committee

 

    2. Network/Affiliate Development – Maximize 7 platforms and new outlets for content distribution

 

     3. Catholic Parish Point Persons from Charlotte, Raleigh and Charleston Dioceses

 

     4. Publicity– Share Your Parish News and upcoming events

 

     5. Creative– Video/Website/Social/Print/eblasts

 

     6. Multi-Platform Tech Integration – Sharing programs across Radio and 6 digital platforms

 

     7. Local Talk Program Development – What topic are you passionate about?  Lengths vary.

 

   8. School Forum – Catholic School/Home School education (High School, College Focus)

 

   9. Family Life/Ministry Showcase – From Marriage & Parenting to Vocations & Living the Beatitudes

 

 10. Catholic Teen Formation – Confirmation to College to Career, keeping connected with our Faith

 

 11. Catholic Music Channel – Featuring playlists from Local Kids, Teens, Adults

 

 12. Faith & Sport – Feature Local Catholic School Teams, Athletes / Catholic Athlete of the Week

 

 

Maximizing Technology in Today’s World

TECHNOLOGY TIMELINE

 

By using today’s technology, we commit to reach every soul across the Diocese of Charlotte, NC and Upstate SC.  In addition to Radio, we have expanded our CAROLINA CATHOLIC media platforms to include Video on our website, mobile app, Facebook/Instagram/X social media and YouTube channel.  We provide access to all our platforms through our weekly eNewsletters.                                                                                            

 

Our streaming technology allows us to access every computer and smartphone allowing us to significantly reduce projected capital expenditures.  This overcame the biggest single broadcast objection of “I can’t hear you.”  With 90% population reach by Smartphone the broadcast signal is not an issue. With compelling content the ears and eyes will come.

 

 

Redefining our Mission & Vision 

 

WHERE WE GO FROM HERE…

 

CAROLINA CATHOLIC MEDIA offers a unique opportunity to reach the entire Local Catholic Community both registered Catholics, those in the pews on Sunday AND the vast flock of those who are not.   With 5 million people in the Charlotte Diocese and a Charlotte metro workday population increase of 20% (post pandemic) there is much room to grow with our outreach in the Vineyard of the Carolinas (3 dioceses - 15 million souls - 1.5 million Catholics). 

 

During these tumultuous times where the world feels upside down, may we be guided by GOD’S love, mercy and grace.  May we grow in and be strengthened by our Catholic faith to reinvigorate our hope in and our love for GOD and for one another. May we truly be Instruments of His Peace by our actions and by our words… to feed the hungry, cloth the naked, forgive the guilty, welcome the stranger AND the unwanted child, care for the ill and love our enemies.

 

CAROLINA CATHOLIC MEDIA looks forward to continuing providing you with ONE LOCAL CATHOLIC VOICE that truly reflects the MOSAIC OF MINISTRIES created by you for all our Carolina Catholics.  From the CRIB TO THE CROSS, may we always remember the REASON FOR EVERY SEASON!  PRAISE BE JESUS CHRIST, NOW AND FOREVER!  VIVA CRISTO REY!

 

I look forward to hearing from you!  

 

In the peace of Christ,

David

 

David M. Papandrea, OFS

Founder/Chairman

Carolina Catholic Media Network

Federal Tax ID: 81-5061992

PH/TX: 704.880.0260

 

DONATE HERE

 
 

Carolina Catholic Featured Ministry

Healed and Restored

Elza Spaedy, Founder

Our program is open to women of all ages who desire to find healing and restoration for those places of their hearts that may be tangled up due to a trauma that is unhealed. We offer them practical tools, valuable insights and community support. We offer women in need, individual and group counseling, with 8 weeks of free therapy sessions. While our participants are receiving counseling, they will be required to participate in all the different workshops provided at the home.

*Healed and Restored with Elza Spaedy

Complete Podcast Library Here

 

Carolina Catholic Media thanks you for your support.

Please help us continue our Mission to Evangelize across the Carolinas!

SECURE ONLINE GIVING
online donation form

SMART DEVICE DONATING
Carolina Catholic App

 

Carolina Catholic
Media Network


TAX ID #

81-5061992

 

CALL US WITH

YOUR GIFT
704.880.0260

 

MAIL A CHECK
PO Box 5931
Statesville, NC 28687

 

 
 

Catholic News Herald

WHY IS HOLY WEEK CALLED “HOLY”?

 

CHURCHPOP

The Meaning of Palm Sunday: 5 Fascinating Facts Every Catholic Should Know

 

Our Sunday Visitor

Resurrection is power rooted in love, not domination

 

CHURCHPOP

Before Lent Ends, Embrace God's Mercy—A Priest’s Urgent Call to Confession

Don’t let this Lent pass by without making it to confession!

Secular Franciscan Order

𝑫𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒊𝒃𝒊 𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒆𝒎!

 

Confession: A Relief for Life’s Weariness

For members of the Secular Franciscan Order, confession holds a special place in the journey of ongoing conversion and renewal. Rooted in St. Francis of Assisi’s example of humility, repentance, and continual commitment to God, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is not just an opportunity to address past sins—it is a path to spiritual freedom, inner peace, and deeper conformity to God’s will. Confession offers a unique relief to all who feel wearied by sin and life’s burdens, inviting a fresh start in grace and renewed strength for the Franciscan mission of living the Gospel.

READ MORE

 

 
 

Our Sunday Visitor

Writing in dirt and silence

Father Vincent Bernhard

National Catholic Register

Pope Francis’ Next Chapter Will Look Very Different

ANALYSIS: The Holy Father is accustomed to a busy daily schedule, frequent travel abroad, and a hands-on governing style. Adjusting to a new reality won’t be easy.

 

Limited 3 Part Series

The Chosen: Last Supper

The table is set. The people of Israel welcome Jesus as king while his disciples anticipate his crowning. But—instead of confronting Rome—he turns the tables on the Jewish religious festival. Their power threatened, the country’s religious and political leaders will go to any length to ensure this Passover meal is Jesus’ last.

READ MORE

RESERVE TICKETS NOW

Aleteia

What you need to know about

‘The Chosen: Season 5’ release

 

Catholic News Agency

Mel Gibson’s ‘The Resurrection of the Christ’ to begin shooting in Italy this August

 

CHURCHPOP

Why Did Jesus Go Into the Desert? The Deeper Meaning Behind These 40 Days

Why did Jesus go into the desert for 40 days? Here's the answer, according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

 

National Catholic Register

The Mystery of Suffering: What Christ’s Passion Reveals About Your Pain

 
 
 

The Diocese of Charlotte Prison Ministry is made up of parish-based volunteers who visit people incarcerated in prisons, jails and detention centers located in the 46 counties of western North Carolina that encompass the Diocese of Charlotte. They enrich their faith – bringing company, hope, love and the mercy of Jesus Christ. Learn more below about how to volunteer or request a visit for a loved one.

 

What We Do

FAQs

Resources

 

 
 

National Catholic Register

Catholic Reawakening: How Young Europeans Are Reclaiming Faith and Tradition

 

CatholicVote

Study: Gen Z Catholics a key driver of Christianity’s rise in UK

 
 

OSV News

France to see a record 17,800 catechumens baptized at Easter, with requests still ‘pouring in

 
 

Catholic Herald

What the Church hierarchy fails to understand about young Catholics

 

Aleteia

Holy See and Moscow have phone call about war in Ukraine

 

Catholic News Agency

The sickbed as a holy place: Pope Francis reflects on his own illness at Jubilee of Sick

Catholic News Agency

From washing feet to a place to sleep: How Rome is welcoming jubilee pilgrims

 

OSV News

Registration opens for 2025 National Eucharistic Pilgrimage events in 10 states

 

CHURCHPOP

Pilgrimage Sites for Jubilee Year 2025: Where to Gain a Plenary Indulgence in the U.S.

Hoping to obtain a plenary indulgence during the Jubilee Year but can't go to Rome? Here are some of the locations you can visit right here in the United States!

 
 

Marcus Aurelius

Catholic Means Universal

Only the Catholic church has done this command from Jesus:

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations...Mt 28:19.

This is why the Catholic Church is truly a universal church as it aligns with what Jesus desired and by the protection of the Holy Spirit, she stood up the test of time for almost 2000 years.

#CatholicChurch  #christendom  #vatican  

#Catholic

 
 

National Catholic Register

Standing at the Threshold of Mystery: The Deacon and the Mass

COMMENTARY: The deacon’s reverent presence at the altar invites us to rediscover the mystery, humility and mission at the heart of the Mass.

 

National Catholic Register

Bismarck’s Catholic Boom Highlights Destination for Growing Number of Faithful

 
 
 

National Catholic Reporter

Trump's Catholic Cabinet: How will their faith shape their work?

 

National Catholic Register

The Trump Administration: More Catholic Than You Know

 
 

National Catholic Register

Pro-Life Coalition Launches $30 Million Pro-Life Venture Fund to Protect Unborn

 

LOOP TODAY

 
 

Catholic News Herald

Hope prevails at Bishop's Youth Pilgrimage

12 April 2025

More than 1,000 attend Bishop Martin’s first youth pilgrimage

 

Find a Parish - Diocese of Charlotte

New Bishop leads Holy Week in WNC

Bishop Michael Martin presides over his first Holy Week in the Diocese of Charlotte, which includes 93 churches across the western half on NC, beginning Sunday. It is the first time in two decades a different Catholic bishop has led these sacred events.

Why cover it?

Powerful visuals: Palm Sunday processions, candlelit vigils, veneration of the cross

Unique access: Bishop Martin, clergy, and parishioners across WNC

Major milestones:

Chrism Mass draws 150 priests to one venue

Easter fire and Vigil

First Easter Mass with Bishop Martin

Key Events in Charlotte:

St. Patrick Cathedral, featuring Bishop Martin

Palm Sunday (April 13, 11 a.m.): Palm blessing and procession

Good Friday (April 18, 3 p.m.): Veneration of crucifix with relic of the True Cross

Easter Vigil (April 19, 8:30 p.m.): Easter fire and Paschal candle lighting

St. Mark Church

Chrism Mass (April 15, 10 a.m.): Bishop’s blessing of oils with priests across the diocese

Easter Sunday (April 20, 9 a.m.): Bishop Martin’s first Easter Mass at one of the largest parishes

Across WNC:

You’re invited to cover Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter (Saturday/Sunday) services at any of our 93 churches from Greensboro to Asheville and beyond. Find the church nearest you here: https://charlottediocese.org/find-parish/

*Media RSVP required for all events – Contact Liz Chandler at lchandler@rcdoc.org

Liz Chandler

Director of Communications

Catholic Diocese of Charlotte

1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, NC 28203

o (704) 370-3336 | m (704) 287-3323

charlottediocese.org

 

Catholic News Herald

Bishop Martin offers advice on raising faith-filled children

 

Catholic News Herald

Bishop addresses Charlotte Catholic controversy

 

St. Matthew Catholic Church

We are overflowing with gratitude after our most recent Walking with Moms in Need (WWMIN) Hand Up event, where we had the joy and privilege of serving 128 women in our community - a new record! 💕 A heartfelt thank you to all the amazing teen and adult volunteers who made this possible!

 

One of the most touching moments came when Father Balkey offered a beautiful blessing over the moms gathered in the waiting area. His words of love and encouragement created a sense of peace and hope that could be felt by all. 🙏

 

How You Can Help Next:

This Saturday, April 12 from 8–10 am, WWMIN is hosting a donation drive to support local moms and babies. Items can be dropped off at the Donated Goods door below the Chapel. Volunteers will be there to help you unload if you pull up to the curb.

 

Especially needed items include:

👶 Baby equipment (strollers, high chairs, bassinets, etc.)

🍼 Essentials like baby blankets, bibs, bottles, and breast pumps

🧷 Diapers and wipes

 

Your donations make a tangible difference.

Let’s continue walking with and lifting up these amazing mothers in our community.

 

Holy Trinity Catholic Middle School

Our Girls 4x4 came in first and is ranked 7th in the state!

 

Lifesite News

South Carolina files legislation that would ban abortion from conception

‘As a society, we’ve done a terrible job recognizing the fact that babies in the womb deserve the same protection and the same chance at life,’ the South Carolina bill’s author said.

 

Catholic News Herald

Bishop urges faithful to strip away distractions, bring Jesus to others this Lent

 

Catholic News Agency

Belmont Abbey College to launch student program in Washington, D.C.

Catholic News Herald

Belmont Abbey College announces expansion of programs in Washington, D.C.

 

Belmont Abbey College

This morning, Abbot Placid had the incredible privilege of speaking at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., where he shared the exciting news of the expansion of Belmont Abbey’s Belmont House on Capitol Hill. This expansion signifies a bold step forward in our mission to deepen our presence in Washington, D.C., and to amplify faithful Catholic voices in media, politics, and culture.

We were also honored to have Abbey leadership join Bishop Michael Martin at this inspiring event, surrounded by so many dedicated individuals. The morning featured powerful speeches from influential leaders like VP JD Vance, making it a truly memorable occasion. We are deeply grateful and humbled to have the Abbey represented on such a significant national stage.

#NationalCatholicPrayerBreakfast

 

Catholic News Herald

Belmont Abbey College President

Bill Thierfelder announces retirement after 21 years

 

Catholic News Herald

Catholics reflect on importance of caring for the Earth

 

Catholic News Herald

New hospital near Belmont Abbey will serve community, enrich nursing program

 

Catholic News Herald

Men grow together in faith during annual conference

 
 

Catholic News Herald

Celebrate the Jubilee Year close to home

 

Catholic News Herald

Catholic Charities navigates refugee funding halt

 
 

A call to build the Kingdom

CHARLOTTE — Reflecting God’s glory by using our hands and our resources to serve others is at the heart of this year’s Diocesan Support Appeal that kicks off the weekend of Feb. 1-2.

The theme of the 2025 Diocesan Support Appeal is “Reflecting God’s Light,” which draws upon a quote from St. Francis of Assisi: “All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.”

READ MORE

 
 

Catholic News Herald

Sister Parish Program enters new phase

 

Welcome!

Carolina Traditional Liturgy Society exists to promote the Traditional Liturgy throughout the Carolinas, as well as to help the faithful live out the traditions, customs, and culture of the Church, including feast celebrations through the traditional liturgical calendar; and to support our priests, Traditional Masses, and related events at parishes under the local bishop.

 

We are committed to providing accurate, reliable, and easily understandable information that is rooted in the teachings of the Church. Whether you are a lifelong Catholic or someone new to the faith, we strive to meet you where you are on your spiritual journey.

May God bless you abundantly on this beautiful journey of faith!

Join our newsletter for weekly updates and news!

 

Mass Times across the Dioceses of Charlotte, Raleigh and Charleston

 

St. Joseph College Seminary

 

SJCS Facebook Page

 

 

SJCS Events Calendar

 
 
 
 

Catholic News & Events in Raleigh

 

Diocese of Raleigh FACEBOOK Page

 

Diocese of Raleigh Office of Vocations

At Ignited by Truth last Friday, our priests (and seminarians) spent time with students, listening, laughing, and walking the journey of faith together.

 

Diocese of Raleigh

Lewis Award and OLL School honor Christine Brennan

 

Diocese of Raleigh

March 26

A beautiful evening of faith and community at the Newman Catholic Center at UNC Chapel Hill! Last night, Bishop Luis Zarama celebrated Mass in Spanish with students and parishioners, bringing joy, unity, and the presence of Christ to all gathered.

 

Diocese of Raleigh

For the next 100 years, embrace your role as stewards

From the Bishop

Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama

Diocese of Raleigh

Bishop conveys priestly appointments and announcements

 

Some moments from the Centennial Mass of the Faithful

Such a blessing to celebrate with those from our Diocese and beyond!

 

Catholic News & Events in South Carolina

Diocese of Charleston FACEBOOK Page

 

Mercy, redemption and transformation

Lent calls us to reflection, where we are invited to examine God’s mercy in our lives and in the lives of others in this season. This time of reflection allows us to confront difficult topics, including one that often divides people — capital punishment.

 
 

Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston

April 10

EN: On Tuesday night, Bishop Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS, blessed Christ Our King and their newly renovated church, marking a joyous occasion for the community as they gathered to celebrate this beautiful transformation.

 

ES: El martes por la noche, el obispo Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS, bendijo a Cristo Nuestro Rey y su iglesia recientemente renovada, marcando una ocasión alegre para la comunidad mientras se reunían para celebrar esta hermosa transformación

#romancatholic #catholicchurch #christourking #churchrenovation #blessing #laiglesiacatolica

 

CRUX

As the domestic Church, the family is the privileged place for Christians to learn about prayer

Father Jeffrey F. Kirby

 
 
 
 

The magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Charleston

APRIL 2025

 

Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston

When was the last time you spent an hour with our Lord in adoration?

He longs for you and awaits your presence, ready to embrace you with a personal and ardent love. His heart burns for you — draw near to him in adoration this week.

 

 

 By Bishop Jacques Fabre-Jeune

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ

 

Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston

Bishop Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS, has outlined a vision for the next five years called Via Fidelis. This journey of faith aims to teach Catholics of South Carolina so that we help spread the Gospel and win hearts for God’s goodness, mercy, love, justice and peace.  Learn more about this exciting journey for our diocese here: charlestondiocese.org/via-fidelis