Domestic Church Media, a Ewing-based religious media organization, announced Dec. 18 that they have acquired a third radio station which will increase their broadcast reach in the Diocese of Trenton and beyond. The non-profit Catholic lay apostolate, founded by Jim and Cheryl Manfredonia, has purchased WGYM 1580 AM in Hammonton (Atlantic County) New Jersey, and will change its programming from Spanish language to an all Catholic/religious format.

DCM, which currently owns and operates the Catholic stations WFJS 1260 AM in Trenton and 89.3 FM in Freehold, is an affiliate of EWTN Global Catholic Network and broadcasts programming produced and provided by them. About 20 percent of their broadcast day is produced locally, featuring hosts, topics and guests from within the tri-state area. With the purchase, DCM will simulcast all three stations from their main studios and facilities at The Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Center for Media Evangelization, Ewing.

Manfredonia noted it is very important for DCM to have a strong local presence, featuring local programs and topics specific to their community, and the blessing and involvement of Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., in whose Diocese the stations are located.

“There are protocols for Catholic media outlets approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops more than a decade ago, and it is imperative that we, and any serious Catholic media organization, follow them,” Manfredonia said. “We have a wonderful relationship with Bishop O’Connell … He hosts his own program on the first Friday of each month.”

In the Diocese of Trenton, the footprint of the newly-acquired WGYM will include lower Burlington County. DCM plans to have Catholic radio programming on the station beginning Jan. 1.