May 20, 2014 // Local

Redeemer Radio buys Michiana FM station

Todays Catholic

This map shows the coverage area that will be offered by Redeemer Radio’s network of stations.

SOUTH BEND — Redeemer Radio, a nonprofit Catholic Radio apostolate in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement to purchase 95.7 FM a regional station covering the entire Michiana area. Redeemer is purchasing WAOR, 95.7 FM licensed to Bremen from Talking Stick Communications for an undisclosed price.

In announcing the purchase Dave Stevens, executive director of Redeemer Radio, said, “Redeemer Radio Michiana will be a local Catholic radio apostolate. We will have local offices and staff, and focus on serving the greater Michiana area — explaining and promoting the Catholic faith and thus seek to change lives. Listeners will hear about events and information from their parishes and area priests, and they will be able to listen to local and national speakers who inspire and teach about the faith. As a 501C3 nonprofit, we’ll promote other Catholic nonprofits and many pro-life organizations free of charge.”

Talking Stick Communications CFO John Lapehn said of the agreement, “as hard as the decision was to sell 95.7FM, we are very pleased that the station will be owned by such a local community oriented organization. In the last several months we’ve learned of the effective work and tremendous growth that Redeemer Radio has had in the Fort Wayne area over the last eight years and we are glad we can help them expand their footprint throughout the entire diocese.”

Mike Landrigan, Redeemer Radio board chair said of the purchase, “Many in the Michiana area have been praying for permanent Catholic Radio for years. As early as 2006 members of a local organization, the St. Thomas More Foundation were broadcasting Catholic Radio on an AM station. In 2010, four members of the foundation joined the Redeemer Radio board with the specific goal we’ve announced today. Since May of 2013 there has been no Catholic Radio in the South Bend area. We are grateful for the prayers and hard work of so many, now that we can bring local Catholic Radio – Redeemer Radio to a large regional audience in the middle of the FM dial Michiana.”

Talking Stick Communications will retain the call letters WAOR. The sale is subject to FCC approval, which is expected in 90 to 120 days. Both organizations have also signed a local operating agreement, which would allow Redeemer Radio to begin operating 95.7 FM prior to final regulatory approval. Future operating plans under that agreement will be announced soon.