EWTN to end shortwave radio operations after 34 years

EWTN Global Catholic Network will shut down its shortwave radio service on Oct. 31, Michael Warsaw, chairman of the board and CEO, announced Oct. 30. The service, which has operated under the call sign WEWN since 1992, was recently slated for closure by the EWTN board of governors.

Warsaw cited the decline of shortwave radio consumption due to the global rise of digital and streaming platforms as a primary reason for the decision. He also noted that high operating costs and the need for expensive repairs to the aging facility made continuing the service an unwise use of resources.

The shortwave service was made possible by a $26 million gift from the late Dutch Catholic entrepreneur Piet Derkson and his wife, Trudy. Warsaw noted that the shortwave station helped the network's foundress, Mother Angelica, advance the mission of the network and served as the inspiration for the growth of EWTN Radio, which now broadcasts on more than 600 AM and FM stations.