Italian radio to air Catholic messages in Malayalam

The initiative is taken by the Cochin diocese in Kerala.

Kochi:  An Italy-based NGO Radio Maria would air devotional music and Catholic messages to Malayalis across the world.

The initiative is taken by the Cochin diocese in Kerala.

In the first phase, the radio station will broadcast content over the internet and will be available on mobiles.

In the next phase, the diocese would launch a FM station to reach out to more people.

Malayalis across the world can access the internet radio by logging on to radiomaria.org.in.

Radio Maria is a non-governmental organization with a spiritual mission. It is now available in 55 countries.

"We are going to promote the radio service in a big way so that Malayalis anywhere in the world can listen to devotional songs and church services in the vernacular. Till now, they only had broadcast in English," said Fr Rafi Kootungal, the director of the project.

"The concept of internet radio appealed to us because it is a very advanced method of broadcasting. In other countries, it is very popular. We wanted to launch it here too. Since it can be accessed on mobile phones, it will also be an ideal platform for youngsters," said Fr Kootungal.

The diocese has set up a full-fledged studio at Aroor to air programs in Malayalam, including songs, holy mass, services, prayers, catechism, rosary, family prayers and meditation.

Listeners can also send greetings to their friends and family through the radio service.

"We are sure the mobile service will be used by many, including youngsters. Already, the response for the internet radio is very encouraging," said Benson Mendez, a volunteer of the project.

This is the first time a diocese in Kerala is venturing into the field of radio broadcasting to reach out to the congregation spread across the globe. It will be available 24/7.

Source: times of india