Podcast Summary: The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)
Episode: Day 109: The Gift of Wonder
Release Date: April 19, 2025
Host: Ascension
Guest: Dr. John Bergsma, Author of Jesus and Jubilee

Introduction

In Day 109 of The Rosary in a Year podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR, delves into the Gift of Wonder, centering the meditation on the First Joyful Mystery: The Annunciation. This episode intertwines historical insights, theological reflections, and guided prayer to deepen the listener's relationship with Jesus and Mary through the Rosary.

St. Gregory Thaumaturgis: The Wonder Worker

Fr. Mark-Mary begins by introducing St. Gregory Thaumaturgis, a pivotal figure whose life exemplifies faith and miraculous works:

• Background:

  • Born around 210 AD and died circa 270 AD.
  • Originally from a pagan family, he converted to Christianity under the mentorship of the renowned theologian Origen.

• Ministry:

  • Ordained as a priest at 40 years old.
  • Appointed as the Bishop of Neoceria in Pontus, overseeing a minuscule Christian community of 17 believers amidst a population of 37,000.

• Legacy:

  • Known as Thaumaturgis, meaning Wonder Worker, due to the numerous miracles attributed to him.
  • Under his leadership, the Christian populace burgeoned from 17 to approximately 37,000 members by his death.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (02:30):
"Thaumaturgis isn't actually a last name, it's really a nickname or an honorific title which means Wonder Worker. Because of the flood of miracles that happened around him, this is what people would call him."

The Annunciation: Reading and Reflection

Fr. Mark-Mary presents a reading from St. Gregory Thaumaturgis that poetically captures the essence of the Annunciation:

Reading from St. Gregory (05:15):
"Today, the grace of God and the hope of the unseen shine through all wonders, transcending imagination and make the mystery that was kept hidden from eternity plainly discernible to us today..."

This passage emphasizes the unveiling of the divine mystery and the joyous proclamation of God's plan for salvation.

Historical Context and Significance

Transitioning from the reading, Fr. Mark-Mary shares insights from a recent discussion on the Poco Poco Podcast with Dr. John Bergsma, author of Jesus and Jubilee. They explore the Jewish anticipation of the Messiah and the diverse expectations surrounding His arrival:

• Jewish Expectations:

  • Diverse interpretations existed regarding the Messiah's nature and mission.
  • Debates included whether the Messiah would bring political freedom, spiritual renewal, or both.
  • Groups like the Essenes anticipated a divine Melchizedek, a priest-king, to lead them.

• The Annunciation's Answer:

  • The angel Gabriel's proclamation to Mary provided a unifying answer to centuries of anticipation.
  • St. Gregory Thaumaturgis poetically describes this moment as the realization of divine grace and the fulfillment of prophetic hope.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (20:45):
"The mystery that was kept hidden from eternity has been made plainly visible to us today—a wonder beyond imagination. God has come to save His people in a way far surpassing their expectations."

The Annunciation signifies God's incarnation, the beginning of the salvific plan, and the establishment of an eternal kingdom through Jesus Christ.

Meditation and Insights

Fr. Mark-Mary encourages listeners to cultivate the Gift of Wonder by embracing the miraculous nature of the Annunciation:

• Embracing Mystery:

  • Recognizing the profoundness of God's actions in human history.
  • Allowing the Holy Spirit to inspire awe and gratitude.

• Personal Reflection:

  • Inviting listeners to renew their faith and appreciation for the Incarnation.
  • Encouraging a deeper relationship with Mary as a model of faithful obedience and wonder.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (28:10):
"May you and I today be renewed with gratitude and wonder. The Word became flesh. The advent of the Messiah and the story of our own salvation."

The Rosary Prayer

The episode transitions into a guided Rosary prayer, focusing on the Joyful Mysteries. Fr. Mark-Mary leads through the traditional prayers, inviting listeners to meditate on the Annunciation and its significance in their spiritual lives.

Conclusion

Fr. Mark-Mary concludes the episode by expressing gratitude for the shared prayer experience and anticipates continuing the journey in the following episodes.

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (50:00):
"Thanks so much for joining me and praying with me again today. I look forward to continuing this journey with you again tomorrow."

Listeners are reminded to follow or subscribe to the podcast for daily notifications and to access the complete prayer plan at ascensionpress.com/riy.

Notable Quotes

• On St. Gregory Thaumaturgis:

  "Thaumaturgis isn't actually a last name, it's really a nickname or an honorific title which means Wonder Worker."
  (02:30)

• On the Annunciation:

  "The mystery that was kept hidden from eternity has been made plainly visible to us today—a wonder beyond imagination."
  (20:45)

• On Personal Renewal:

  "May you and I today be renewed with gratitude and wonder. The Word became flesh."
  (28:10)

Final Prayer

The episode concludes with the recitation of the Our Father, multiple Hail Marys, and the Glory Be, culminating in a collective invocation of the Holy Trinity.

Connect with the Podcast:
For the complete prayer plan and additional resources, visit ascensionpress.com/riy. Ensure you subscribe to receive daily notifications and access exclusive content through the Ascension app.

Blessings to all listeners on their journey of faith and prayer.