In Rome, a special memorial Mass honored Mother Angelica’s life, legacy, and steadfast faith. Celebrated by Father Diego Sanz Martinez, OMI, at the Church of Santo Spirito in Sassia near the Vatican, the service marked the ninth anniversary of her passing in 2016.

Father Diego Sáez Martín, Co-founder of EWTN Ukraine and EWTN Spain, celebrated the Mass. Speaking of the evangelical work of EWTN, Father noted:

“After the time of the prophets and after the coming of our Lord, God has never ceased to send new messengers of the Gospel to spread his message throughout the world in new and more effective ways. One of these people was that woman who has inspired us so much with her word in action and whose death anniversary in the Lord we remember on this celebration: Mother Angelica.”

EWTN Vatican Bureau staff, along with their families and friends, gathered to give thanks for the religious sister who founded EWTN in the U.S. on August 15, 1981—the Solemnity of the Assumption—with a modest team of about 20 employees.

“Through her action and her work,” Father added, “she has inspired many men and women to take part in this work of proclaiming the Eternal Word to the world, with new and ever more effective means.”

Father Diego asked the faithful gathered in Rome to remember Mother Angelica’s motto when contemplating how to communicate the faith in society today: “Unless you are willing to do the ridiculous, God will not do the miraculous.”

Father noted: “Jesus Christ also wants to work the miracle through us today. We are the continuators of this long list of messengers and heralds of the Gospel, in which we appear in intimate union with Mother Angelica.”

Toward the end of his homily, Father Diego prayed:

“Let us ask God for fidelity to our mission, because God never tires of calling us to conversion and to live according to his Eternal Word.”

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Adapted by Jacob Stein

Kristina Millare contributed to this story; Camera operated by EWTN Vatican OPT; Video Editor: Ilaria Chimenti.