Oklahoma Catholic Radio reaches goal through its annual radiothon

As a student at the University of Oklahoma, Brian Buettner tuned his ears, and ultimately his heart, to Oklahoma Catholic Radio.

Today, he’s better known as Father Brian Buettner.

“Oklahoma Catholic Radio was more than just a source of information, it was a companion and a counselor during my years of study and contemplation,” Father Buettner said. “The teachings and stories I listened to were instrumental in shaping my understanding of the priesthood and in solidifying my commitment to serving the Church.”

Oklahoma Catholic Radio seeks to continue transforming hearts and minds, yet requires assistance from donations and pledges. That was the mission of their radiothon, titled “Oklahoma Days,” in late November. 

The radiothon serves as a special event to raise money for Catholic radio, which in Oklahoma counts a total of 12 stations, both English and Spanish.

“I love the radiothons because we get to hear a whole lineup of Oklahomans on Catholic Radio for two days,” said Jeff Finnell, president of Oklahoma Catholic Radio.

“We had both Archbishop (Paul) Coakley and Bishop (David) Konderla from Tulsa on the air, as well as many priests from around the state. I always learn something new from our wonderful priests.”

Callers responded, too, with pledges of financial support. 

“We had a goal of collecting $20,000 in pledges during the radiothon and I’m happy to report we achieved our goal,” Finnell said. “With the continued support of our listeners, we can continue to provide good quality Catholic programming to the Sooner State. We can continue to reach both Catholics and non-Catholics alike with the good news of Jesus Christ and the Church he founded on the Apostle Peter, the Catholic Church.

“Based on the stories we hear from our listeners, we are making a difference. People stumble onto our radio stations and then can’t turn it off.”

Catholic Radio will be hosting an “Ask the Fathers” event on Feb. 2. More information is available at okcr.org.

Maybe such an event will inspire others, like Father Buettner, to serve the Church.

“My relationship with Oklahoma Catholic Radio has been a cornerstone of my faith journey, especially during my formative years as a student at the University of Oklahoma,” Father Buettner said. “It was during this time that the station played a pivotal role in my discernment process towards the priesthood.

“The content, ranging from theological insights to personal testimonies, provided a guiding light and a source of spiritual nourishment as I navigated the complexities of faith and vocation.”

He said his journey has come full circle because now he serves as the college chaplain and pastor at Saint Thomas More Catholic Church on the campus of the University of Oklahoma, the very place where his heartfelt connection with Catholic radio began. 

“This unique perspective allows me to appreciate even more deeply the station's impact, not just on my own life but also on the lives of the students I now guide and mentor,” said Father Buettner.

“As a proud supporter of Oklahoma Catholic Radio, I firmly believe in its mission and the significant role it plays in the spiritual lives of its listeners. The station's ability to connect, educate and inspire is a testament to the power of faith-based media in nurturing and sustaining our spiritual communities.”

According to the Oklahoma Catholic Radio’s website, the mission is dedicated to answering Saint John Paul II’s call for the “New Evangelization” by using broadcast media to spread the Gospel to bring people to Christ through his Church. 
 
Listeners can also tune in online through the website, okcr.org. Information on how to donate or view the listening schedule, can be found on the website.

Jolene Schonchin is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.