Mother Angelica

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Mother Angelica (born Rita Antoinette Rizzo; April 20, 1923 – March 27, 2016) was an American Roman Catholic nun, who founded the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). Born in Canton, Ohio, to Italian-American parents, she entered the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration monastery in Cleveland and later established Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Irondale, Alabama. Mother Angelica was known for her conservative views and her charismatic approach to evangelism and television ministry.

Early Life

Rita Antoinette Rizzo experienced a difficult childhood marked by poverty and her parents' divorce. Despite these challenges, she felt a calling to religious life from an early age. After a miraculous healing from a stomach ailment through the intercession of Saint Therese of Lisieux, she deepened her faith and eventually joined the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in 1944, taking the name Sister Mary Angelica of the Annunciation.

Founding of EWTN

In 1981, Mother Angelica launched the Eternal Word Television Network from a garage in Irondale, Alabama. EWTN grew to become the largest Catholic media network in the world, broadcasting to over 150 countries. The network includes television and radio programming, online content, and a publishing arm. Mother Angelica's own programs, where she shared her insights on faith, morality, and the challenges of modern society, became especially popular.

Controversies

Mother Angelica was no stranger to controversy, often clashing with church leaders and others over issues of doctrine, liturgy, and church governance. Her outspokenness and conservative views on Catholic teachings, including her criticism of liberal trends within the Church, garnered both admiration and criticism.

Legacy

Mother Angelica's impact on Catholic media and evangelism is significant. Her work paved the way for the expansion of Catholic television programming and influenced the way the Church approaches media and communication. Despite facing health challenges in her later years, including a stroke in 2001 that left her with limited ability to speak, she remained a beloved figure until her death in 2016.

Death and Recognition

Mother Angelica passed away on March 27, 2016, Easter Sunday, at the age of 92. Following her death, tributes poured in from around the world, highlighting her contributions to the Catholic Church and religious broadcasting. Although not formally canonized, many regard her as a modern-day saint for her faith, perseverance, and impact on the world.

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