WavePod Logo

wavePod

← Back to The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)
Podcast cover

Day 223: Now and at Death

The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)

Published: Mon Aug 11 2025

Focusing on the final petition in the Hail Mary, Fr. Mark-Mary reminds us that we are pilgrims on a journey, accompanied by Mary who lovingly intercedes for our salvation. He encourages us to invoke the Holy Spirit and practice attentiveness to each word we pray. This habit of focused prayer helps root us more deeply in God’s presence. Today’s focus is the mysteries of the Transfiguration and Institution of the Eucharist and we will be praying two decades of the Rosary. For the complete prayer plan, visit https://ascensionpress.com/riy.

Summary

Summary of "Day 223: Now and at Death" from The Rosary in a Year Podcast

Podcast Information:

  • Title: The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)
  • Host/Author: Ascension
  • Episode: Day 223: Now and at Death
  • Release Date: August 11, 2025

Introduction

In the Day 223 episode of The Rosary in a Year, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR guides listeners through a profound journey of prayer and meditation focused on the fourth and fifth luminous mysteries of the Rosary: the Transfiguration and the Institution of the Most Holy Eucharist. This session emphasizes cultivating a steadfast prayer habit, deepening the relationship with Jesus and Mary, and understanding the biblical foundations of the Rosary.

Building a Daily Prayer Habit

Fr. Mark-Mary begins by encouraging listeners to develop a daily prayer routine, highlighting the importance of consistency in spiritual growth. He states:

“As we're praying the Hail Mary, we can pay attention to the final sort of request of Mary that she prays for us” (01:07).

This approach reinforces the idea that even small, regular prayers can significantly enhance one's spiritual life over time.

Understanding the Luminous Mysteries

Transfiguration (Fourth Luminous Mystery)

The episode delves into the Transfiguration of Jesus, a pivotal moment where Jesus reveals His divine glory to Peter, James, and John. Fr. Mark-Mary explains the significance of this mystery:

“Mary is a mother to us and she is praying for us and advocating for us” (01:08).

By reflecting on the Transfiguration, listeners are reminded of Jesus' divine nature and His close relationship with God the Father, which serves as a foundation for their faith.

Institution of the Eucharist (Fifth Luminous Mystery)

The discussion transitions to the Institution of the Eucharist, celebrating Jesus' establishment of the Holy Communion. This mystery underscores the enduring presence of Christ in the sacrament. Fr. Mark-Mary emphasizes:

“The Holy Spirit is the primary mover and animator of our prayer” (01:36).

Invoking the Holy Spirit enhances the depth and sincerity of one’s prayers, making the Eucharistic celebration even more meaningful.

Deepening the Relationship with Jesus and Mary

Fr. Mark-Mary highlights the transformative power of Mary's intercession:

“On this journey, we have the best of advocates and queens and mothers praying for us, particularly for the salvation of our souls” (01:12).

Mary's role as an intercessor encourages believers to seek her guidance and support in their spiritual lives, reinforcing their connection to Jesus.

Prayer Structure and Meditation Techniques

The episode provides a structured approach to prayer, incorporating visio divina (meditation with sacred art), saint writings, and lectio divina (scripture reading). Fr. Mark-Mary guides listeners through the Rosary prayers, interspersed with reflective pauses to meditate on the mysteries:

  1. Opening Invocation:

    • “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (01:40)

  2. Our Father and Hail Mary Prayers:

    • Each Our Father (00:48, 06:16) and Hail Mary sequence is recited with intentional meditation on its meaning.

  3. Glory Be and Prayer to Jesus:

    • Concluding prayers emphasize the unity of the Holy Trinity and seek forgiveness and salvation (05:40, 10:28).

Insights on Mary’s Influence and Advocacy

Fr. Mark-Mary elaborates on Mary's powerful role in the believer’s life:

“Mary is a mother to us and she is praying for us and advocating for us” (01:12).

This affirmation reinforces the belief in Mary's intercessory power, offering comfort and assurance to those who seek her prayers, especially in times of need or at the hour of death.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

  • “The Holy Spirit is the primary mover and animator of our prayer” - 01:36
  • “Mary is a mother to us and she is praying for us and advocating for us” - 01:08
  • “On this journey, we have the best of advocates and queens and mothers praying for us, particularly for the salvation of our souls” - 01:12

Conclusion

Fr. Mark-Mary concludes the episode by expressing gratitude to the listeners and encouraging them to continue their prayer journey:

“Thanks so much for joining me and praying with me again today. I look forward to continuing this journey with you again tomorrow” (10:45).

The episode reinforces the enduring power of the Rosary as a means to deepen one’s faith, foster a closer relationship with Jesus and Mary, and become a vessel of grace for the world.

Final Takeaways

  • Consistency in Prayer: Building a daily Rosary habit nurtures spiritual growth.
  • Mary’s Intercession: Embracing Mary’s role as an advocate enhances one’s prayer life.
  • Meditative Practices: Incorporating sacred art and scripture deepens the meditation experience.
  • Understanding Mysteries: Reflecting on the luminous mysteries fosters a greater appreciation of Jesus' divine mission.

Listeners are encouraged to visit Ascension Press for the complete prayer plan and to subscribe to the Ascension app for enhanced podcast features and full Rosary recordings.

Timestamp References:

  • 00:00 – Podcast Beginning
  • 01:07 – Building Prayer Habits
  • 01:08 – Mary’s Advocacy
  • 01:12 – Mary’s Role Explained
  • 01:36 – Invoking the Holy Spirit
  • 05:40 – Closing Prayers
  • 10:28 – Final Prayers
  • 10:45 – Episode Conclusion

Note: Time stamps are provided for reference and to highlight key moments within the episode.

No transcript available.