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

Episode: Day 258: The Sorrowful Mysteries
Date: September 15, 2025
Host: Ascension | Guide: Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR

Episode Overview

This episode is part of Ascension’s daily "The Rosary in a Year" podcast, where Fr. Mark-Mary Ames and companions guide listeners in praying the Rosary. On Day 258, the focus is on the Sorrowful Mysteries, specifically meditating on the third (Crowning with Thorns), fourth (Carrying of the Cross), and fifth (Crucifixion) Sorrowful Mysteries. The episode offers a contemplative space to meditate on Christ’s Passion, inviting listeners to deepen their relationship with Jesus and Mary through prayerful repetition and communal reflection.

Key Discussion Points & Structure

1. Introduction & Purpose (00:00 - 01:02)

• The episode begins with brief introductions by Fr. Mark-Mary and companions, setting an inviting and reverent tone.
• Listeners are reminded that the Rosary draws us deeper into relationship with Jesus and Mary, serving as a source of grace for the world.
• Mention of resources: Ascension app, Rosary in a Year Prayer Guide, and the full prayer plan (ascensionpress.com/riy)—encouraging regularity in prayer.

Quote:
“Through prayer and meditation, the Rosary brings us deeper into relationship with Jesus and Mary and becomes a source of grace for the whole world.”
– Fr. Mike Schmitz (00:08)

2. The Sorrowful Mysteries:

A. Third Sorrowful Mystery: The Crowning with Thorns (01:13 - 04:53)

• Led invocation, beginning with “Our Father,” followed by a full decade of Hail Marys.
• Each Hail Mary is recited purposefully, allowing for personal meditation on Jesus’ sufferings and the mockery he endured.
• The decade concludes with the “Glory Be” and “O my Jesus” prayers, asking for mercy and salvation for all.

Notable Moment:

• Repetition and gentle rhythm foster a meditative spirit, inviting the listener to contemplate Christ’s humility and patience under persecution.
  “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. Mark Mary (04:43)

B. Fourth Sorrowful Mystery: The Carrying of the Cross (04:53 - 08:35)

• Another decade of the Rosary, focusing on the burden and love Christ exhibited as He carried the Cross.
• Emphasized through voiced prayer, repetition, and occasional shifts in speakers to enhance the communal sense.
• Listeners are implicitly encouraged to unite their own sufferings with Christ.

Notable Moment:

• Emphasis on perseverance and compassion, with reflective pacing that urges the listener to “walk” alongside Jesus.
  “Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.”
  – Recurring Prayer (05:31, multiple times within the decade)

C. Fifth Sorrowful Mystery: The Crucifixion (08:38 - 12:25)

• Final decade honored in today’s episode, guiding listeners to dwell deeply on the mysteries of Christ’s death for humanity.
• The prayers are offered solemnly, recalling the sacrifice Christ made and the immense mercy extended to the world.
• Finishes with the concluding “Glory Be” and “O my Jesus” prayers.

Notable Quote:
“O 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. Mark Mary (12:18)

3. Closing and Blessing (12:28 - end)

• The Rosary concludes with the blessing, invoking the name of the Holy Trinity.
• Fr. Mark-Mary expresses gratitude for listeners' participation and encourages continuity in the prayer journey.

Memorable Sign-off:
“Thanks for joining me and praying with me today. I look forward to continuing this journey with you again tomorrow. Poco a poco, friends. God bless you.”
– Fr. Mark Mary (12:34-12:42)

Important Timestamps

• 00:08 — Purpose of the Rosary in a Year, source of grace
• 01:13 — Beginning the Third Sorrowful Mystery
• 04:53 — Transition to Fourth Sorrowful Mystery
• 08:38 — Transition to Fifth Sorrowful Mystery
• 12:28 — Closing Prayers and Blessing

Summary

This episode, guided by Fr. Mark-Mary and fellow brothers, offers a prayerful, community-centered meditation on the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary, focusing on Christ’s endurance in His Passion. The repetition and gentle cadence foster a space for listeners to unite their own daily crosses with those of Jesus while seeking Mary’s intercession. The tone is peaceful, compassionate, and invites listeners to return and continue building a life of prayer, “poco a poco”—little by little.