Podcast Summary: The Rosary in a Year (Day 24: Still, Small Voice)
Title: The Rosary in a Year
Host: Ascension
Guest: Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR
Release Date: January 24, 2025
Episode: Day 24: Still, Small Voice
Transcript Length: Approximately 24 minutes
Introduction and Overview
In Day 24 of Ascension's "The Rosary in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR, delves into the profound theme of God's presence through the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the significance of the "still, small voice." He guides listeners through a contemplative exploration of how divine grace often manifests in subtle and hidden ways, encouraging a deeper relationship with Jesus and Mary through the Rosary.
Reflection on 1 Kings 19:12
Fr. Ames begins by revisiting the poignant moment from 1 Kings 19:11-12, where the Prophet Elijah encounters God not in the dramatic displays of wind, earthquake, or fire but in a "still, small voice."
Fr. Ames [02:30]: "He chose to be. And he came in the still, small voice."
This passage underscores the recurring theme of God opting for simplicity and intimacy over grandeur, highlighting the Holy Spirit's preference for subtlety in revealing divine glory.
The Incarnation and the Holy Spirit's Silent Work
Connecting the Old Testament reflection to the New Testament mystery of the Incarnation, Fr. Ames examines the Apostle's Creed statement: "conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary."
Fr. Ames [05:10]: "The Spirit comes, and the Word becomes flesh. And the glory of God is revealed."
He emphasizes that the Incarnation itself is a testament to God's desire to dwell among humanity in a manner that is both simple and profound, echoing the "still, small voice" motif.
God's Presence in the Ordinary: The Sacraments as Examples
Fr. Ames illustrates how God's presence permeates everyday religious practices through the sacraments, each serving as a conduit for the Holy Spirit's work in hidden and subtle ways.
1. Baptism
Baptism is highlighted as the foundational sacrament where the Holy Trinity establishes residence within the individual.
Fr. Ames [07:45]: "The most powerful work in our lives for all the baptized... Look how quiet it is."
The simplicity of the rite—water poured and words spoken—belies the profound transformation occurring within.
2. Eucharist
The Holy Mass and the mystery of transubstantiation are explored as moments where the ordinary (bread and wine) become the divine (body and blood of Christ).
Fr. Ames [10:20]: "Simple, ordinary words to the senses that it's imperceptible what is happening... But God is truly present again."
This sacramental mystery exemplifies how God manifests His presence in ways beyond human perception.
3. Confession
The sacrament of Reconciliation is presented as another instance of God's hidden grace, where forgiveness is bestowed through the priest's simple absolution words.
Fr. Ames [13:00]: "I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
This process underscores the continuous, albeit silent, work of the Holy Spirit in restoring grace.
Invitation to Intimacy and Gratitude
Fr. Ames invites listeners to reflect on their personal experiences with the Holy Spirit, encouraging an appreciation for the often unnoticed yet transformative work within their lives.
Fr. Ames [16:45]: "It is an invitation to intimacy and to gratitude and to a greater reverence for the ordinary, for the daily."
He draws an analogy between a mother's quiet love for her child and God's hidden presence within each believer, fostering a deeper sense of trust and gratitude.
Closing Prayer and Invocation
The episode concludes with a communal prayer, reinforcing the themes discussed and cementing the listener's connection to the Holy Spirit's silent ministrations. The prayers of the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be are recited, embodying the devotional practice that underpins the podcast's journey.
Fr. Ames [22:30]: "Let us pray in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
Conclusion
Day 24 of "The Rosary in a Year" masterfully intertwines Scripture, sacramental theology, and personal reflection to illuminate the profound truth that God's greatest works often occur in the quiet, unnoticed moments of our lives. Fr. Mark-Mary Ames encourages listeners to cultivate a heightened awareness of the Holy Spirit's subtle presence, fostering a more intimate and grateful relationship with the divine through the daily practice of the Rosary.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Fr. Ames [02:30]: "He chose to be. And he came in the still, small voice."
- Fr. Ames [05:10]: "The Spirit comes, and the Word becomes flesh. And the glory of God is revealed."
- Fr. Ames [07:45]: "The most powerful work in our lives for all the baptized... Look how quiet it is."
- Fr. Ames [10:20]: "Simple, ordinary words to the senses that it's imperceptible what is happening... But God is truly present again."
- Fr. Ames [13:00]: "I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
- Fr. Ames [16:45]: "It is an invitation to intimacy and to gratitude and to a greater reverence for the ordinary, for the daily."
- Fr. Ames [22:30]: "Let us pray in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
Additional Resources:
- Prayer Plan Download: Ascension Press - Rosary in a Year
- Podcast App: Available on the Ascension app, featuring special content and full Rosary recordings.
- Prayer Guide: "Rosary in a Year Prayer Guide" by Ascension, containing daily readings, saint reflections, and sacred art images.
Embark on this transformative journey with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames as he leads you deeper into the mysteries of faith, one day at a time, fostering a life enriched by the Rosary and the enduring grace of Jesus and Mary.