Podcast Summary: The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames) – Day 253: The Glorious Mysteries

Host: Ascension
Featuring: Fr. Mike Schmitz, Matt Fradd, various prayer leaders
Date: September 10, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode is part of Ascension’s “The Rosary in a Year” podcast, guiding listeners through daily prayer and meditation with the Rosary. On Day 253, the focus is on the last three Glorious Mysteries:

• The Descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost
• The Assumption of Mary
• The Coronation of Mary

The purpose of this episode is to deepen the listener’s relationship with Jesus and Mary through meditating on these powerful mysteries, encouraging the formation of a daily habit of prayer and reflection.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Praying the Third Glorious Mystery: The Descent of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost)

• [00:46–05:00]
• Fr. Mike guides listeners through the prayers, reflecting on Pentecost—the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Mary and the Apostles.
• The decade is prayed communally, with alternating voices leading the Hail Marys.
• The repetition and rhythm foster meditative prayer, inviting listeners to contemplate the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their own lives.

Notable Quote:

• “The third Glorious Mystery is the Descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost.”
  —Fr. Mike Schmitz [01:03]

2. Praying the Fourth Glorious Mystery: The Assumption of Mary

• [05:00–08:48]
• Fr. Mike introduces the mystery of Mary being assumed body and soul into heaven.
• The recitation of the decade invites participants to meditate on Mary’s special role in salvation history and her closeness to God.
• Emphasis on intercessory prayer: asking Mary to “pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.”

Notable Quote:

• “The fourth glorious mystery is the Assumption of Mary.”
  —Fr. Mike Schmitz [05:00]

3. Praying the Fifth Glorious Mystery: The Coronation of Mary

• [08:55–12:48]
• Fr. Mike announces the scene: Mary is crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth.
• The prayers seek Mary’s intercession and model her as an example of perfect discipleship.
• The repetition of “pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death” emphasizes trust in Mary's intercessory role and the hope of heavenly reward.

Notable Quote:

• “The fifth glorious mystery is the Coronation of Mary.”
  —Fr. Mike Schmitz [08:55]

4. Closing Prayers and Communal Blessing

• [12:48–13:03]
• “Oh my Jesus, forgive us our sins. Save us from the fires of hell and lead all souls to heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy.”
  —Fr. Mike Schmitz [12:48]
• The episode ends with the sign of the cross and a communal “Amen,” followed by gratitude from Fr. Mike and encouragement to continue the rosary journey each day.

Notable Quotes:

• “Thanks, everybody, for joining me and praying with me again today. I look forward to continuing this journey with you again tomorrow.”
  —Fr. Mike Schmitz [13:04]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:46 – Start of Rosary: Introduction of the Glorious Mysteries
• 01:03–05:00 – The Descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Third Glorious Mystery)
• 05:00–08:48 – The Assumption of Mary (Fourth Glorious Mystery)
• 08:55–12:48 – The Coronation of Mary (Fifth Glorious Mystery)
• 12:48–13:03 – Closing Prayers and Blessing

Memorable Moments

• The rhythmic, meditative flow of communal prayer, allowing listeners to sink deeply into each mystery.
• Fr. Mike’s reassuring and pastoral encouragement at the end of the episode, reminding listeners to persevere in daily prayer.
• The inclusivity of the language—"pray for us sinners"—emphasizes community and shared spiritual journey.

Language, Tone, and Style

• The episode maintains a calm, reverent, and nurturing tone, inviting listeners into a closer relationship with Mary and Jesus through the Rosary.
• The language is simple yet profound, suitable for both beginners and seasoned prayer practitioners.

For a structured prayer plan and to join the community, listeners are encouraged to visit ascensionpress.com/riy.