Podcast Summary: The Rosary in a Year (Bonus Episode: Introduction to Phase Four: “Finding Focus”)

Release Date: July 8, 2025
Host: Ascension
Guest: Sister Miriam James Hydland, Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity

Introduction to Phase Four: “Finding Focus”

In this bonus episode of The Rosary in a Year podcast, host Fr. Mark-Mary Ames welcomes listeners to the initiation of Phase Four, aptly titled “Finding Focus.” This phase marks a pivotal point in the year-long journey of prayer, emphasizing the deepening of established prayer habits and the assimilation of previously introduced spiritual practices.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (00:00):

"Phase four is called Finding Focus and we are all blessed."

He expresses gratitude for the support received from the community, highlighting the presence and encouragement of Sister Miriam James Hydland.

Sister Miriam James Hydland (00:34):

"It's a great adventure to be part of."

Guest Introduction: Sister Miriam James Hydland

Sister Miriam provides a comprehensive overview of her religious community, the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity (SOLT). She details their mission, which spans across America, Central America, Belize, Guatemala, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, and the Philippines. The focus of SOLT is to serve in areas of profound apostolic need, embodying the love of Jesus and Mary through missionary work in impoverished and rural regions.

Sister Miriam (01:29):

"Our desire is to bring the love of Jesus and Mary to everyone. So it's a very simple way of life and we serve in a lot of very poor places, a lot of rural places, and just bringing the light of the gospel to people."

Personal Testimonies: The Power of the Rosary

The conversation shifts to the personal significance of the Rosary in Sister Miriam’s life. She recounts how the Rosary was integral to her family upbringing, instilling in her a foundational devotion despite fluctuating personal engagement during her youth. Her mentor’s explanation—that holding a Rosary symbolizes holding the hand of Our Lady—deepened her understanding and appreciation of this sacramental prayer tool.

Sister Miriam (02:27):

"Our Lady... she's only going to turn our hearts to Jesus. So, yeah, it's a great devotion."

Fr. Mark-Mary echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the tangible nature of sacramentals like the Rosary and their role in fostering a heartfelt relationship with Mary and Jesus. He underscores the Rosary's ability to address the varied emotional and spiritual states of individuals, serving as a constant source of grace.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (03:50):

"The rosary can feel a little bit more like it can help what is real, what is the reality kind of, you know, feel real as well."

Navigating Phase Four: Embracing Depth Over Novelty

As listeners approach the halfway mark of their Rosary journey, Fr. Mark-Mary outlines the transition into “Finding Focus.” This phase emphasizes moving beyond the introduction of new practices to deeply integrating existing ones, fostering a sustained habit of prayer that nurtures the soul and heart.

He discusses the challenge of maintaining engagement as the initial novelty wanes, inviting Sister Miriam to offer words of encouragement for those who may find this transition daunting.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (06:26):

“... having a lot of issues, it's been making the rosary kind of more a burden or a task.”

Overcoming Barriers: Embracing Vulnerability in Prayer

Sister Miriam addresses the inherent difficulties in receiving and allowing deeper spiritual transformation through the Rosary. She acknowledges common fears of vulnerability and the struggle to remain focused, emphasizing the importance of honesty and reliance on the Lord.

Sister Miriam (06:26):

“...it's hard for us just to allow it to be done unto us according to His Word.”

She encourages listeners to seek divine assistance in overcoming distractions and fears, fostering a genuine transformation of the heart akin to that promised by Mary.

Integrating Vocal, Meditative, and Contemplative Prayer

The discussion delves into the three traditional forms of prayer—vocal, meditative, and contemplative—and how they interweave within the Rosary practice to create a holistic prayer experience.

Sister Miriam (19:45):

“Vocal prayer...proclaiming the word of God. Meditative prayer...allowing the Lord to formulate within me a picture of that mystery...contemplative prayer...beyond ourselves.”

She illustrates how each form contributes to a deeper connection with God, transforming the Rosary from mere repetition to a living, dynamic relationship with the divine.

Commitment vs. Devotion: The Heart Behind Prayer

A significant portion of the episode explores the distinction between commitment and devotion in the context of prayer. Fr. Mark-Mary shares his personal journey, reflecting on past experiences where commitment to the Rosary became burdensome rather than a source of spiritual enrichment.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (27:20):

“Devotion to me speaks of the heart. It's...an act of love.”

Sister Miriam elaborates on this, emphasizing that true commitment stems from a place of love and devotion rather than duty. She underscores the importance of allowing love to be the driving force behind spiritual practices, transforming obligations into heartfelt offerings.

Sister Miriam (27:02):

“Devotion to me speaks of the heart. You're committed to your religious life because you're devoted to Christ.”

Practical Encouragement: Developing Sustainable Prayer Habits

The episode concludes with practical advice for maintaining and deepening prayer habits. Sister Miriam likens the spiritual journey to running a marathon, advocating for gradual progress and perpetual openness to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. She encourages listeners to embrace all forms of prayer, whether engaging in full Rosary recitations or mindful, solitary Hail Marys, as each contributes to a meaningful relationship with God.

Sister Miriam (16:28):

“We need to develop a relationship with the Holy Spirit, where we give the Holy Spirit permission to challenge us, to convict us, and also to comfort us.”

Closing Prayer

The episode wraps up with a heartfelt closing prayer led by Sister Miriam, invoking Mother Mary’s intercession and blessing for the listeners and the podcast team. The prayer emphasizes surrendering fears, offering personal struggles, and seeking deeper union with Mary and Jesus through the Rosary.

Closing Prayer (35:28):

"Mother Mary, you who so tenderly love each of us... we offer you to you, Mother, all of our fears, all of our anxieties... Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen."

Final Thoughts

Fr. Mark-Mary expresses deep appreciation for Sister Miriam’s contributions and the supportive community of listeners. He reiterates the importance of gradual, heartfelt engagement with the Rosary, encouraging listeners to proceed “little by little” as they transition into the new phase of their prayer journey.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (35:05):

“You all right? Friends, remember Poco Poco, little by little, all right? God bless you.”

This episode serves as a profound guide for those advancing through their Rosary journey, offering both spiritual insight and practical strategies to deepen their prayer life. By fostering a balance between commitment and devotion, Fr. Mark-Mary and Sister Miriam provide listeners with the tools needed to cultivate a transformative relationship with Mary and Jesus through the Rosary.