My Visit to EWTN

Late last month, wedged between my recent speaking-related jaunts to New Hampshire and Minnesota, I was flown down to Irondale, AL to the studios of EWTN.  I was the guest of EWTN at the request of Johnette Benkovic, the founder Women of Grace ministries and hostess to its related TV show and radio hour.  Together we recorded five TV shows in a series that will air either later this year or into next year. When I find out, I’ll let you know.

I also got to sit in with Johnette on a live radio show that aired on October 24, and you can listen to that show here in podcast form.

Thought you’d like some of the photos I took in between the acts.

a bit of the facilities - not the best panoramic photo...

a bit of the facilities – not the best panoramic photo…

I don’t mind telling you that doing anything on television is a bit daunting for me. Between the hair, the make-up (which I’m allergic to!), and wardrobe changes, it was a full day, and a bit exhausting. But I give credit to Johnette who not only did 5 shows with me for TV, and one live radio hour… she was on day 4 of 5 days of recording programming. I told Johnette she’s got amazing energy and stamina! She’s a pro and an inspiration of poise and confidence.

I'm with Johnette Benkovic on the set of "Women of Grace". 10.24.13

I’m with Johnette Benkovic on the set of “Women of Grace”. 10.24.13

I was very happy to begin the busy day with daily Mass in the famous chapel (that so many have seen on TV).

The Chapel at EWTN. I was happy to attend Mass and adoration there with the Friars!

The Chapel at EWTN. I was happy to attend Mass and adoration there with the Friars!

The monstrance in the chapel. (No host there, I was not taking pictures during adoration!)

The monstrance in the chapel. (No host there, I was not taking pictures during adoration!)

Me with Mother. Well, almost.

Me with Mother. Well, almost. That was the oil painting in the outer hallway near the chapel.

All the programming at the EWTN studios takes place steps away from Mother Angelica’s old office space where she worked for many years. Here’s a few photos of that special work space.

The desk where Mother Angelica worked for years. (She's now living about an hour away from the studios in a monastery.)

The desk where Mother Angelica worked for years. (She’s now living about an hour away from the studios in a monastery.)

Crucifix in Mother's office.

Crucifix in Mother’s office.

Artwork in Mother's office.

Artwork in Mother’s office.

I also enjoyed good weather the day I visited, and took a little walk around the grounds… and discovered that many people enjoy visiting EWTN and making a little pilgrimage to the grounds and chapel there.

St Francis is a fan! Seen just outside the outdoor altar area.

St Francis is a fan! Seen just outside the outdoor altar area.

That's a good idea!

That’s a good idea!

Mary's statue

Mary’s statue

A lovely outdoor altar on the grounds.

A lovely outdoor altar on the grounds.

EWTN's satellite dishes -- beaming the message out to the world!

EWTN’s satellite dishes — beaming the message out to the world!

When you do the dishes you can see the dishes... Just outside my kitchen window... the satellite dishes  for EWTN.

When you do the dishes you can see the dishes… Just outside my kitchen window… the satellite dishes for EWTN.

EWTN owns a few private homes where guests live during their stay. I was happy to watch two world series games while I was there for two nights!

 

10 comments on “My Visit to EWTN

  1. One day some years ago,while flicking through satellite TV channels searching for English speaking channels I was stunned to see on the screen Scott Hahn’s face whose book , Rome Sweet Home, I’d just finished reading. I stopped to listen. The TV channel was EWTN. I’ve never left it since. A Roman Catholic English speaking network. Wow , the maximun.

  2. Looking foward to seeing the new shows.

    1. Pat says:

      I’m so fortunate to have had the opportunity!

    2. frank says:

      My name is frank from galway in ireland i am wondering if you are coming to ireland and would love to meet you .i enjoy watching you pn ewtn you have great charisma.keep up good work.
      God Bless
      Frank kelly

  3. Sarah Damm says:

    Looking forward to seeing the TV shows you taped! How exciting!!

    1. Pat says:

      It’s still a bit mind-boggling for sure.

  4. The whole place is filled with grace. Which house did you stay in? I think I was in the lower level of Regina Coeli. Blessings on the shows. I know they will be an inspiration to viewers. I love your bubbly and generous spirit, and I hope to meet you face-to-face one day!

    1. Pat says:

      I stayed in Madonna House.

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