Episode Summary: Day 165 – Following in His Footsteps

In this enriching episode of "The Rosary in a Year" podcast, hosted by Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, listeners are guided through a profound meditation on the Second Glorious Mystery of the Rosary: The Ascension. Released on June 14, 2025, this episode delves deep into the spiritual significance of following in Jesus Christ's footsteps, both literally and metaphorically, to foster a deeper relationship with Him and the Blessed Mary.

1. Introduction to Day 165

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames begins the episode by introducing Day 165: Following in His Footsteps, setting the stage for a contemplative journey through prayer and meditation. He emphasizes the transformative power of the Rosary in cultivating a daily prayer habit and strengthening one's bond with Jesus and Mary.

Notable Quote:

“The Rosary brings us deeper into relationship with Jesus and Mary and becomes a source of grace for the whole world.”
(00:00)

2. The Ascension: A Central Theme

The focus of today's meditation is the Ascension of Jesus, a pivotal event in Christian theology where Christ ascended to Heaven forty days after His Resurrection. Fr. Mark-Mary Ames invites listeners to meditate on Bernardino Gandino's painting, "The Ascension of the Lord in the Church, Chiesa di Santa Maria del Carmine," drawing connections between the artwork and the spiritual journey of following Christ.

3. Bernardino Gandino and His Artistic Legacy

A brief exploration of the artist, Bernardino Gandino, highlights his contributions to Baroque religious art. Born in 1587 and active in Brescia, Italy, Gandino's works are characterized by dynamic compositions and vivid emotional expressions, reflecting the transition from the Late Renaissance to the Baroque period.

Notable Insight:

"His work reflects the artist's Baroque style, characterized by dynamic composition and vivid emotional expression."
(00:45)

4. Detailed Description of the Ascension Painting

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames provides a vivid description of Gandino's depiction of the Ascension. Jesus is portrayed majestically ascending from a mountaintop, enveloped in radiant light, while Mary and the disciples watch in awe and reverence. The painting captures both the divine glory of Christ's ascent and the human emotions of those witnessing the miracle.

Notable Description:

"Christ rises majestically into the heavens, surrounded by a radiant glow that contrasts with the darker, rich tones of the earthly rumble below."
(02:15)

5. The Significance of Jesus' Footprints

A striking element in Gandino's painting is the footprints of Jesus left on the stone, a detail that holds deep theological and symbolic meaning. Fr. Mark-Mary Ames introduces the ancient tradition of venerating these footprints, tracing back to the 4th century Mount of Olives site where believers honor the spot of Jesus' ascension.

Notable Quote:

"St. Augustine wrote he did not leave heaven when he came down to us, nor did he withdraw from us when he went up again into heaven."
(06:30)

This quote underscores the belief that Jesus remains present among His followers, symbolized by the enduring footprints that serve as a tangible reminder of His eternal presence.

6. Insights from St. Francis of Assisi

The discussion deepens with references to St. Francis of Assisi, whose writings profoundly emphasize the importance of following Jesus' exact footsteps. Fr. Mark-Mary Ames highlights St. Francis's dedication to living in obedience, chastity, and poverty, mirroring Christ's life as a path to perfection and heavenly treasure.

Notable Insight:

"He wanted to walk exactly like where Jesus walked, exactly how Jesus walked and how he gave us access to this through Word sacrament in church."
(10:15)

St. Francis's approach is portrayed as a model for believers to immerse themselves in Scripture, sacraments, and the traditions of the Church to faithfully emulate Christ's life.

7. Practical Application: Walking in Jesus' Footsteps Today

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames bridges the historical and theological insights with practical guidance for contemporary believers. He encourages listeners to embrace the grace received through the sacraments—Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, and Confession—as tools to follow Christ's example diligently. By doing so, believers can ascend spiritually alongside Jesus, preparing themselves for eternal life in Heaven.

Notable Encouragement:

"His footprints on earth are not just fading on an ancient rock, but they are alive and vibrant and fruitful and accessible to you and me here and now."
(15:45)

This assertion reinforces the idea that the legacy of Jesus' life is a living guide for personal transformation and spiritual growth.

8. Conclusion and Communal Prayer

The episode culminates with a heartfelt prayer, uniting listeners in the communal recitation of the Our Father, Hail Marys, and the Glory Be, reinforcing the themes of obedience, grace, and the enduring presence of Christ and Mary in the lives of believers.

Final Prayer Excerpt:

"May we who desire to follow Jesus in His ascension, may we deny ourselves and follow him with renewed zeal and focus..."
(19:30)

Fr. Mark-Mary Ames concludes by expressing gratitude to the listeners and inviting them to continue this spiritual journey in the next episode.

Key Takeaways:

• Meditation on the Ascension: Understanding the Ascension as a bridge between earthly life and heavenly promise.

• Art as a Spiritual Tool: Utilizing sacred art, such as Gandino's painting, to deepen meditation and reflection.

• Following Christ's Footsteps: Emphasizing the importance of living a Christ-centered life through the sacraments and obedience to Jesus' teachings.

• Historical Traditions: Appreciating longstanding traditions that connect believers to the foundational events of the faith, such as the veneration of Jesus' footprints.

• Practical Faith Application: Encouraging daily practices that align one's life with the example set by Jesus and the teachings of saints like St. Francis of Assisi.

For those seeking to embark on this transformative journey, Ascension offers a comprehensive Rosary in a Year Prayer Guide, which complements the podcast with daily readings, saint reflections, and sacred art. To access the full prayer plan, visit Ascension Press.

Join Fr. Mark-Mary Ames tomorrow for Day 166 as the journey through the Rosary continues, deepening your prayer life and relationship with the Divine.