Podcast Summary: Day 19 - Valley of Tears
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)
- Host/Author: Ascension
- Episode: Day 19: Valley of Tears
- Release Date: January 19, 2025
Introduction
In Day 19: Valley of Tears of The Rosary in a Year podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR, delves into the profound theme of suffering within the Christian journey. Hosted by Ascension, this episode explores how the Rosary serves as a powerful tool to deepen one's relationship with Jesus and Mary, especially in times of hardship.
Exploring the "Valley of Tears"
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames opens the episode by referencing the timeless poem "To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time" and transitions into the biblical context found in John 19:26-27. He reflects on Jesus' words to his mother and the beloved disciple during the crucifixion:
"When Jesus saw his mother and disciples whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, 'Woman, behold your son.' Then he said to the disciple, 'Behold your mother.' And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home."
(00:04)
This passage underscores the dual suffering of both John witnessing the crucifixion and Mary experiencing profound sorrow, aptly described as the "Valley of Tears."
The Suffering of Blessed Herman of Richenau
Fr. Mark-Mary introduces the figure of Blessed Herman of Richenau, an 11th-century hermit believed to be the author of the "Hail Holy Queen." Despite facing severe physical challenges—cerebral palsy, spina bifida, a cleft palate, and eventual blindness—Blessed Herman embodied resilience in a fallen world:
"Blessed Herman was born with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and a cleft palate. Later on in his life, he would end up going blind...he was a man who would have been very, very familiar with the cross and the fact that this world that we live in, it's a fallen world."
(02:30)
His personal hardships deepened his understanding of suffering, making his prayers a source of comfort and companionship for those navigating their own valleys of tears.
A Story of Faith and Suffering
To illustrate the profound connection between suffering and faith, Fr. Mark-Mary shares a poignant story of a Catholic missionary and a widow in a remote village:
"He shared a bloody crucifix with the widow, hoping to uplift her spirit with an image of a joyful Jesus. When he returned weeks later, the widow had taken down the crucifix in favor of the laughing Jesus picture."
(04:15)
When questioned, the widow revealed her preference for the image of the crucified Jesus, stating:
"I know that he gets me. This woman experienced life as a valley of tears. She found consolation in the fact that Jesus, her Savior, knew what it meant to suffer from within."
(04:49)
This narrative emphasizes that for many, the image of a suffering Christ resonates more deeply, providing genuine solace and understanding in their own struggles.
Mary: Our Companion in Suffering
Building on these reflections, Fr. Mark-Mary highlights Mary's unique role as a companion in suffering:
"She is a perfect mother and a perfect guide as we continue this journey through the Valley of Tears."
(05:50)
Mary's intimate experience with pain and loss—ranging from betrayal to the agony of childbirth—makes her an empathetic and steadfast guide. Through the Rosary, believers can draw closer to Mary, finding strength and hope amid their trials.
Biblical Foundations and Devotional Practices
Fr. Mark-Mary intertwines biblical insights with practical devotional practices, encouraging listeners to:
- Build a Daily Habit of Prayer: Establishing consistency in praying the Rosary.
- Form a Relationship with Jesus and Mary: Deepening personal connections through meditation and reflection.
- Meditate with Sacred Art and Scripture: Utilizing visio divina and lectio divina to enhance spiritual understanding.
He asserts that these practices transform the Rosary into a source of grace, empowering believers to navigate the challenges of life with faith and resilience.
Conclusion and Prayer
The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer, inviting listeners to acknowledge their struggles and seek solace in Jesus and Mary:
"Whatever it is, Jesus and Mary, they get it. They get it and they're with you in it."
(06:33)
Fr. Mark-Mary's closing words reinforce the message that in the "Valley of Tears," believers are never alone. Through the Rosary, they are accompanied by divine figures who intimately understand and share in their suffering.
Final Thoughts
Day 19: Valley of Tears offers a profound exploration of suffering, companionship, and the transformative power of the Rosary. Fr. Mark-Mary Ames masterfully intertwines scripture, history, and personal stories to provide listeners with both comfort and actionable steps to deepen their spiritual lives. Whether new to the Rosary or seeking to enrich an existing prayer practice, this episode serves as a guiding light through life's inevitable valleys.
Additional Resources
- Prayer Plan: For the complete Rosary in a Year prayer plan, visit Ascension Press.
- Listen Anywhere: Access special features and full Rosary recordings on the Ascension App or your preferred podcast platform.
Notable Quotes:
- "Jesus gives us this most beautiful of gifts in His Mother." (03:25)
- "The world that we live in, it's a fallen world." (02:45)
- "She knows that God is a father who keeps his promises, who is worthy of our trust." (05:30)
Stay Connected
Thank you for joining Fr. Mark-Mary Ames on this spiritual journey. Subscribe to The Rosary in a Year podcast on your favorite platform and follow along daily to transform your prayer life and embrace the grace that the Rosary offers.