An Eternal Legacy: Remembering 68 Years of CRC Radio Ministry in Italy

The ministry of CRC radio in Italy has come to an end after 68 years and while there is sorrow, the eternal legacy of the work of the ministry brings great joy and comfort.

Founded by Scottish missionary Jack Murray in December 1957 and originally called Verità Cristiana, the station broadcast from Tangier, Morocco in collaboration with TWR.

The current director, Giuseppe Longo took up his position in 2019 having been a church planter in Rome for 15 years before going on to be a missionary in Zimbabwe. Giuseppe admits the decision to close the ministry has been painful, but he and the CRC team are grateful for how God has blessed them over the years.

“Without doubt over almost 70 years TWR has made a tremendous contribution to the spread of the gospel in Italy. Many have been touched and encouraged to believe in Jesus and have a personal relationship with Christ,” said Giuseppe.

“For example, one lady 20 years ago, Paola, was very troubled with many family problems but one day she listened to the Thru The Bible programme and was touched by the Lord. Recently we interviewed her, and it was great to hear how God has continued to work in her life, how she shared the gospel with many people.”

The decision to close the media ministry was taken due to a lack of funding and Giuseppe and his team are now praying for God to show them how they individually may continue to serve the Lord.

“In the beginning it was very hard for us when we knew that it was closing. We were very sad and confused and we were left wondering what we would do next. It was very important for us as a team to pray a lot about the situation and support each other and to reduce the pain of the closure. We know for certain that God has a plan for us and he will remain faithful.

“I hope the legacy of the ministry of the radio station will be that it encouraged people to read the Bible and to know Jesus better.

“Voluntarily, we will keep the CRC website going which includes many programmes over the past 25 years and I hope our love and dedication in our ministry to our listeners will remain firm in their hearts.”

TWR is praying about the future of a potential media ministry partnership in Italy. Would you consider joining us, as we prayerfully seek Lord’s guidance and direction?

Images: (top, banner) Members of the CRC team and TWR staff gathered together, (middle, right) Left to right: Dirk Mueller (TWR Europe’s International Director) and Gianfranco Piccirillo (Chairman of the board of directors for CRC)