EWTN: The Conservative Catholic Network That Drew Pope Francis' Criticism

EWTN: A Global Catholic Media Powerhouse

• 💡 Founded in 1981 by Mother Angelica in a monastery garage, EWTN has grown into a global media conglomerate.
• 📺 The network now includes nearly a dozen TV channels, a book publisher, a newspaper, and radio affiliates.
• 🎯 EWTN primarily covers Catholic ministry but also includes significant news and political content.

Influence on Conservative Catholicism

• 🧠 EWTN is described as an influential force in conservative media, particularly among a politicized and conservative segment of Catholicism.
• 🗣️ It has emerged as a potent voice in Trump-era politics, with President Donald Trump having appeared on the network multiple times.
• ✝️ Founder Mother Angelica used her popular TV show to criticize efforts to liberalize the church.

Pope Francis and EWTN

• ⚠️ Pope Francis, in 2021, asked EWTN to stop criticizing him, particularly after he allowed priests to perform same-sex marriage blessings.
• 💬 EWTN's COO stated the network gave Francis a platform by broadcasting his words, emphasizing their mission to communicate the church and the Holy Father's message.

Impact on Papal Conclaves and Viewership

• 🌍 As a global network, EWTN could have some impact on the election of a new pope, as many Catholics and cardinals watch it.
• 🇺🇸 However, it is still perceived as a largely American network, which might limit its influence internationally.
• 📊 While having millions of social media followers, its US cable viewership for events like Pope Francis' funeral was significantly lower than mainstream networks.

Financial Growth and Mission

• 📈 Since the last conclave in 2013, EWTN and its affiliates have nearly doubled their revenue, reaching approximately $100 million annually.
• 💰 Revenue streams include advertising, sales of religious items, and donations.
• 🌟 EWTN describes itself as being on a mission from God to defend the church and communicate its message.