On December 31, 2000, during his first radio sermon on WGN, Father Barron announces the name of his new ministry: Word on Fire.

Cardinal Francis George opens the radio broadcast introducing then-Father Barron, who takes five minutes before he begins his sermon to announce the name of his new ministry, “Word on Fire,” and its purpose. 

Bishop Barron starts his first radio talk by explaining that Word on Fire is going to be a program of Catholic evangelization. He describes how he will draw from the richness of the Roman Catholic tradition and that his talks will be evangelical in nature: They will proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

He says he hopes his talks will be informative and entertaining but that his ultimate goal is conversion—bringing listeners into closer relationship with Jesus Christ.

Finally, Bishop Barron references a few quotes to demonstrate that Catholic preaching has become dull and beige, as if hidden from the culture; instead, he intends to preach “with fire,” as at the first Pentecost, in a fiery, transformative, and illuminating way.

Bishop Barron has kept his word for the last 25 years and is continuously bringing souls to Christ. If his preaching has played a meaningful role in your own journey of faith, we invite you to consider making a gift below. Your generosity helps this ministry continue sharing the good news of God’s love with countless others.