By Shelby Siegfried
for the Register
Spirit Catholic Radio became an instrumental part of one
family's journey to Catholicism and their personal encounter with Jesus.
Spirit Catholic Radio is on a mission to transmit the Gospel message through radio airwaves, and its reach continues to grow across Nebraska. Since coming on air in 1999 with a 500-watt signal, the network has expanded its coverage to reach 92% of the state.
“Our goal is simple: we want all people to encounter Jesus by broadcasting the Gospel message,” said Bernie Schaefer, vice president of development at Spirit Catholic Radio. “Through the radio, these words and messages reach people right where they are, in their homes or vehicles. Whether you’re a cradle Catholic or not Catholic, there’s something for everyone in our programming.”
To fulfill this mission, Spirit Catholic Radio offers a wide range of quality Catholic programming. The network produces local shows such as Spirit Mornings, local Mass and Rosary and live coverage of events like press conferences, priestly ordinations, and church dedications. Top-rated national Catholic radio programs from trusted sources such as EWTN, the Ave Maria Radio Network, and others complete the program line-up.
“As we continue to grow, we aim to expand our local programming and reach, bringing the truths and traditions of the Catholic faith to a wider audience.” Schaefer said.
Spirit Catholic Radio’s footprint has significantly expanded in recent years. With the addition of 90.5 FM in Ogallala and a planned transmitter upgrade for 91.5 FM in central Nebraska, coverage will be enhanced in areas within the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln. New stations in Broken Bow, O’Neill, and Valentine will bring Spirit Catholic Radio’s inspiring content to even more communities across the state.
Schaefer expressed the organization’s commitment to ensuring that no area is left underserved.
“We aim to reach every community in Nebraska with a population of 2,000 or more,” he stated.
In addition to traditional radio, Spirit Catholic Radio provides a free mobile app for listeners to access their favorite programs anytime, anywhere.
As a lay-driven apostolate, Spirit Catholic Radio relies on the support of its listeners. Schaefer expressed gratitude for the backing of local bishops and priests, acknowledging their recognition of the vital role played by the network in helping the community grow in faith and connect with Christ.
For Spencer Hampton and his family of Sutherland, Spirit Catholic Radio became an instrumental part of their journey to Catholicism and their personal encounter with Jesus. Hampton described himself as a lukewarm Lutheran, while his wife, Tiffany, was raised Methodist. They attended church services with their children, and felt they loved Jesus.
Then Tiffany’s cousin invited Spencer to join a local men’s group called That Man is You.
“At first, it seemed strange to me. They began with the sign of the cross and prayed to Mary. It was an experience I had never encountered before and it sparked something inside me.” he said.
As a husband and father, Spencer felt compelled to learn more.
“With 30,000 different denominations, there is only one true Church. I owed it to myself, my wife, and my kids to lead them to the truth,” he reflected. “I had to find the truth. I was convinced that Christ was calling us. So, we embarked on a two-year journey that ultimately led to our family becoming Catholic.”
The Hamptons began attending Mass at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in North Platte, where they said they felt welcome from the start, and joined the OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) program. They learned about Spirit Catholic Radio and began tuning in regularly.
“We started listening to Spirit Catholic Radio and delving deeper into the Catholic faith. I had no idea that Catholic radio stations existed before, but suddenly, that was all I was listening to. I was hooked,” Spencer said.
Among Hampton’s favorite programs are “The Doctor is In,” featuring clinical psychologist Dr. Ray Guarendi, which offers practical advice on personal, family, and professional life. He also found “Catholic Answers Live,” a daily call-in radio program dedicated to Catholic apologetics and evangelization, to be instrumental in their conversion process.
“We’ve learned so much from Catholic Answers,” he added.
However, the most influential program during Hampton’s conversion was “Called to Communion” with Dr. David Anders, which specifically addresses questions from non-Catholics. Anders, also a catechist and writer, is also a convert to Catholicism.
“I would listen to Dr. David Anders constantly. His show revealed the truth I was searching for, answering every doubt or question I had. If I missed a show, I would find the podcast episode and listen online. Catholic radio truly helped me, and my family, encounter Christ,” Hampton expressed.
Since their conversion in April 2017, the Hampton family has continued to grow in their faith and actively participate in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish. Spencer serves as an acolyte, usher, and trustee on the financial council. He has also been teaching CCD classes for several years, and the family organizes games at the annual pumpkin festival. Catholic radio remains an essential part of their spiritual journey.
“Whenever we’re in the car, it’s often what’s playing,” Hampton shared. “The rosary in the morning is great, and sometimes I can catch Mass or listen to music on my drive to work. Our kids listen with us, and they pick up on things too. The journey to encounter Jesus is ongoing; Catholic radio keeps us learning, growing, and deepening our relationship with Christ. When you encounter Him, you understand that He holds the words of eternal life.”
To find a local Spirit Catholic Radio station or listen online, visit www.spiritcatholicradio.com.
