The Rosary in a Year Podcast: Day 175 – "Calling Through the Noise"
In Episode 175 of The Rosary in a Year podcast, hosted by Ascension and featuring Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR, listeners embark on a contemplative journey centered around the second luminous mystery of the Rosary: the Wedding at Cana. This episode intricately weaves art, symbolism, and spiritual reflection to deepen the prayer experience and foster a closer relationship with Jesus and Mary.
Paolo Veronese and the "Wedding at Cana"
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames begins by introducing Paolo Veronese, a distinguished Venetian Renaissance painter known for his vibrant color palette and dynamic compositions. Born in 1528 in Verona, Italy, Veronese's work epitomizes the opulence and grandeur of the Mannerist style. The focus of today's meditation is Veronese's masterpiece, the Wedding at Cana, created between 1562 and 1563.
Ames provides a vivid description of the painting: "This large-scale banquet scene is set in an open-air, classical architectural setting depicted with idyllic opulence" (02:45). Over 100 figures populate the expansive white marble table, with Jesus and the Virgin Mary prominently positioned, exuding calmness amidst the bustling assembly. The meticulous details—from soaring Corinthian columns to the shimmering fabrics and sparkling glassware—bring the scene to life, subtly highlighting the miracle of water turning into wine in the lower right corner.
The Louvre: Visibility of Masterpieces and the Mona Lisa
Transitioning to a broader reflection on art and perception, Ames draws attention to the Wedding at Cana's home in the Louvre Museum. Despite its impressive size of approximately 22 by 32 feet and its captivating detail, the painting often goes unnoticed by the park's millions of annual visitors. Ames muses, "It's because on the opposite wall hangs Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, which is actually quite small" (10:30). The Mona Lisa's fame and the museum's visitor flow overshadow Veronese's work, illustrating how brilliance can be overlooked when juxtaposed against ubiquitous icons.
The Atlas Statue at Rockefeller Center and Its Symbolism
Ames then shifts to a personal anecdote, discussing the statue of Atlas at Rockefeller Center in New York City, situated directly across from St. Patrick's Cathedral. Atlas, depicted as a muscular figure bearing the celestial sphere, serves as a powerful emblem of endurance and resilience. Ames contrasts this mythological portrayal with the spiritual role of priests: "Atlas here being a symbol of the potential and strength of man, strong but strained and suffering under the weight of the world... And then there's Jesus, the one who holds the whole world in his hand" (15:20). This comparison sets the stage for deeper theological reflection.
Connecting the Statue to Spiritual Lessons: Dependence on God
Drawing a parallel between the Titan's burden and human existence, Ames delves into the concept of "an orphan spirit" as described in scripture—a condition where one feels compelled to carry life's burdens alone, yet inherently unable to do so. He states, "Without God, we are crushed under the weight of the world... a life condemned to servitude, of being in it alone" (18:10). This reflection emphasizes the necessity of surrendering personal burdens to a higher power, highlighting the futility of self-reliance.
Reflection on the Wedding at Cana as a Metaphor for Trust in Jesus
Returning to the central theme of the episode, Ames connects the Wedding at Cana to the idea of dependence on Jesus. He interprets the absence of wine not just as a narrative detail but as a metaphor for humanity's inability to sustain itself without divine intervention. "We can't save ourselves... there's Jesus who can turn water into wine... who, even right as a baby, holds the whole world in his hand" (22:50). This analogy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of turning to Jesus in times of need, rather than relying solely on personal strength or resources.
Ames encourages listeners to embrace this spiritual truth: "Let us look at him who is always looking at you... let Mary bring you close amidst the crowd. And as you draw close to Jesus, give him your cares and your concerns" (28:00). By doing so, believers can experience liberation from the overwhelming pressures of life, akin to imagining Jesus relieving Atlas of his colossal burden.
Conclusion with Prayer
The episode culminates in a serene prayer session, guiding listeners through the Our Father, multiple Hail Marys, and the Glory Be. This communal prayer serves as both a conclusion and a spiritual anchoring, reinforcing the episode's themes of trust, reliance, and divine support.
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames closes with warm wishes: "Thanks so much for joining me and praying with me today. I look forward to continuing this journey with you again tomorrow. Poco poco, friends. God bless you" (35:00).
Final Thoughts
Day 175 of The Rosary in a Year podcast masterfully combines art critique, symbolic analysis, and spiritual exhortation to offer listeners a profound meditative experience. Through reflections on Veronese's Wedding at Cana, the dynamics within the Louvre, and the enduring symbolism of the Atlas statue, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames invites believers to deepen their prayer life and reliance on divine grace.
For those seeking to build a daily habit of prayer, form a closer relationship with Jesus and Mary, or explore the biblical foundations of the Rosary, this episode provides rich insights and contemplative guidance. To follow the complete prayer plan, visit Ascension Press.