Summary of "Day 128: Queen of Angels" – The Rosary in a Year Podcast with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames
Released on May 8, 2025
In the 128th episode of Ascension's Rosary in a Year podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames delves into the profound title of Mary as the "Queen of Angels." This episode, titled "Queen of Angels," offers listeners a deep exploration of Mary's maternal and protective roles, drawing from theological insights, personal anecdotes, and scriptural reflections to enrich their prayer life and relationship with Jesus and Mary.
1. Introduction to the Fifth Glorious Mystery: The Coronation of Mary
Fr. Mark-Mary begins the episode by introducing the focus of the day’s meditation: the fifth Glorious Mystery of the Rosary—the Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. He emphasizes the significance of this mystery in deepening one’s relationship with Jesus and Mary, and in becoming a source of grace for the world.
Notable Quote (00:00):
“Through prayer and meditation, the Rosary brings us deeper into relationship with Jesus and Mary and becomes a source of grace for the whole world.”
2. Exploration of "Regina Angelorum" (Queen of Angels)
The central theme revolves around the title "Regina Angelorum," meaning "Queen of Angels." Fr. Mark-Mary reflects on St. John Henry Newman's writing, which connects Mary’s queenship with her role as the Mother of God. He highlights how Mary’s maternity and her divine motherhood intertwine, positioning her closer to Jesus than any angelic being.
Notable Quote (03:15):
“Mary is the Regina Angelorum, the Queen of Angels. And as the mother of our Lord, she comes nearer to him than any angel, nearer even than the seraphim who surrounded him.”
3. Scriptural Foundations and Theological Insights
Fr. Mark-Mary reads a passage by St. John Henry Newman, which elaborates on Mary’s connection with the archangels Gabriel and Michael. Newman explains that Mary’s maternity is intrinsically linked to her queenship over angels, particularly in the events surrounding the Annunciation and the birth of Jesus.
Notable Quote (04:30):
“The two archangels who have a special office in the gospel are St. Michael and St. Gabriel, and they both of them are associated in the history of the incarnation with Mary.”
He further discusses the vision St. John had of a woman clothed with the sun, symbolizing Mary, and the subsequent battle between Michael’s angels and the dragon, representing evil.
4. Personal Reflection: The Maternal Warrior
Drawing from a personal experience, Fr. Mark-Mary shares a story from his early years as a friar. He recounts an encounter with a protective mother at a youth group meeting, where she asserted her authority and unwavering commitment to her children’s safety. This interaction serves as a metaphor for Mary's protective role over humanity.
Notable Quote (07:45):
“When it comes to my children, I'm in charge here implicitly, and not you, little friar boy... she is the general of an angelic army, protecting us from all harm and all attacks of Satan.”
5. Mary as the General of the Angelic Army
Fr. Mark-Mary elaborates on Mary’s role as the leader of a host of angels. He underscores that Mary’s queenship is not merely honorary but active, involving the protection and intercession of angels on behalf of believers.
Notable Quote (10:20):
“With Mary, Queen of the Angels, we are safe. We're safe to be ourselves. We're safe to be on a journey... because of her queenly motherly protection.”
He encourages listeners to view Mary as both a compassionate mother and a powerful protector, capable of sending angels to guard against temptation and evil.
6. Application: Turning to Mary in Times of Need
Fr. Mark-Mary urges listeners to cultivate a habit of turning to Mary confidently during moments of weakness, temptation, or discouragement. By doing so, believers can invoke the protection and support of Mary’s angelic hosts.
Notable Quote (12:05):
“In those moments, let us turn to her and cry to her with confidence and beg her to send the host of angels to protect us, especially from temptation and discouragement.”
7. Concluding Prayer and Reflection
The episode culminates with the recitation of the Rosary, focusing on the Coronation of Mary. Fr. Mark-Mary leads the prayers, reinforcing the themes discussed and inviting listeners to meditate deeply on Mary’s role as Queen of Angels.
Notable Quote (15:50):
“Let us ponder, reflect upon, like, really receive deeply this truth of Mary, Queen of the Angels.”
8. Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Fr. Mark-Mary concludes by reaffirming the safety and assurance found in Mary’s queenship. He emphasizes that under her protection, believers can confidently embrace their spiritual journeys, knowing they are safeguarded by her and her angelic host.
Notable Quote (17:30):
“With Mary, Queen of the Angels, we are safe... because of her queenly motherly protection.”
Conclusion
Day 128 of Rosary in a Year offers a heartfelt and insightful meditation on Mary’s exalted role as the Queen of Angels. Through theological exploration, personal anecdotes, and guided prayer, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames invites listeners to deepen their devotion and reliance on Mary’s protective and intercessory power. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and comfort found in Mary's maternal care and her leadership over the heavenly hosts.