Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Spirit Catholic Radio, a prominent Catholic radio network based in Nebraska, has been recognized for its 25 years of broadcasting. The recognition took place at the 2024 EWTN Catholic Radio Conference in Birmingham, Alabama. Jack Williams, general manager of EWTN Catholic Radio, referred to Spirit Catholic Radio as "the premier Catholic radio network in the United States."

The conference was hosted by the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), known as the largest religious media network globally. Founded by Mother Angelica in 1981, EWTN encompasses television, radio, shortwave, news wire services, and publishing. The network currently includes 448 affiliates across 44 states.

Spirit Catholic Radio's journey began in the 1990s when several groups initiated plans for a Catholic radio presence in Omaha. After nearly five years of efforts and contributions from local families, KVSS began broadcasting with a 500-watt signal on the 88.9-FM frequency in 1999. In collaboration with Kolbe Media, they expanded their reach to over 1.2 million potential listeners with a new signal on 102.7-FM by January 2009.

Recently adding its twentieth signal located in Falls City on October 15th, Spirit Catholic Radio now covers nearly 95% of Nebraska's population.

At the conference attended by seven staff and board members from Spirit Catholic Radio, program director Jeb Eischeid accepted an award for “Best top of the hour ID.” Executive Director Jim Carroll received the “Faithful Warrior Award” from Michael Warsaw, CEO of EWTN. This award honors outstanding achievement in advancing Catholic radio's mission within the United States.

“I am very honored to be included with the list of past recipients for the Faithful Warrior Award,” Carroll expressed gratitude towards his wife Karol and acknowledged his team’s dedication to evangelization efforts.