The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)
Episode: Day 327 — The Glorious Mysteries
Date: November 23, 2025
Host: Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR
Podcast by: Ascension
Overview
This episode is a contemplative and prayerful guide through the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary. Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, along with fellow Franciscans, leads listeners in meditating on these Mysteries, inviting deeper relationship with Jesus and Mary. The format consists of the traditional prayers of the Rosary, fostering a spirit of reflection, gratitude, and community for all joining in prayer, regardless of spiritual background.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
The episode is structured around the five Glorious Mysteries. Each is introduced with a brief mention before proceeding into communal prayer. Here is the breakdown:
1. The Resurrection (01:10)
- Spiritual Focus: Jesus' victory over death; the foundation of Christian hope.
- Prayer Structure: Begins with the Our Father, followed by ten Hail Marys, a Glory Be, and the Fatima prayer.
- The repetition of "pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death" encapsulates the trust in Jesus' triumph over sin and death.
Notable Quote:
“The first glorious mystery is the Resurrection.”
— Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (01:10)
2. The Ascension (04:45)
- Spiritual Focus: Christ’s return to the Father, promising the gift of the Holy Spirit.
- Prayer Structure: Repeats the established Rosary format.
- Encourages faith in Christ’s continued presence and advocacy for humanity.
Notable Quote:
“The second glorious mystery is the Ascension.”
— Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (04:45)
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit (08:27)
- Spiritual Focus: Pentecost, the birth of the Church, the empowerment of the Apostles.
- Prayer Structure: Maintains the rhythmic prayer structure, invoking the Spirit upon all listeners.
- Serves as a reminder to seek strength and wisdom from the Holy Spirit.
Notable Quote:
“The third glorious mystery is the descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost.”
— Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (08:27)
4. The Assumption of Mary (12:12)
- Spiritual Focus: Mary’s being taken body and soul into heaven.
- Prayer Structure: Each Hail Mary is an affirmation of Mary’s participation in God’s promise.
- Highlights the Catholic belief in Mary’s special role and her closeness to God.
Notable Quote:
“The fourth glorious mystery is the Assumption.”
— Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (12:12)
5. The Coronation of Mary (15:50)
- Spiritual Focus: Mary’s crowning as Queen of Heaven and Earth.
- Prayer Structure: Expresses trust in Mary’s intercession and the holiness to which all are called.
- Strengthens the sense of belonging to Mary’s spiritual family.
Notable Quote:
“The fifth glorious mystery is the coronation of Mary as Queen of heaven and Earth.”
— Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (15:50)
Memorable Moments & Tone
- Repetition and Rhythm: The traditional structure of Rosary prayers establishes a meditative, peaceful tone.
- Community Feel: Though the prayers are recited, the repeated “pray for us sinners” and collective “Amen” affirm the unity and solidarity of all listeners.
- Genuine Warmth: The closing remarks reinforce the gentle encouragement and spiritual friendship characterizing the series.
- “Thanks, everyone, for joining me and praying with me today. I look forward to continuing this journey with you again tomorrow.” (19:44)
Closing Blessings:
- “Poco. Poco. Friends, God bless y’ all.”
— Fr. Mark-Mary Ames & co-hosts (19:51–19:53)
Notable Quotes With Timestamps
- “The first glorious mystery is the Resurrection.” — Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (01:10)
- “The second glorious mystery is the Ascension.” — Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (04:45)
- “The third glorious mystery is the descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost.” — Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (08:27)
- “The fourth glorious mystery is the Assumption.” — Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (12:12)
- “The fifth glorious mystery is the coronation of Mary as Queen of heaven and Earth.” — Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (15:50)
- “Thanks, everyone, for joining me and praying with me today. I look forward to continuing this journey with you again tomorrow.” — Fr. Mark-Mary Ames (19:44)
Important Timestamps
- 01:10 — First Glorious Mystery: Resurrection
- 04:45 — Second Glorious Mystery: Ascension
- 08:27 — Third Glorious Mystery: Pentecost
- 12:12 — Fourth Glorious Mystery: Assumption
- 15:50 — Fifth Glorious Mystery: Coronation of Mary
- 19:44 — Closing gratitude and send-off
Summary
This episode is a meditative walk through the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary, led by Fr. Mark-Mary Ames and the community of friars. It invites listeners into a spiritual rhythm, highlighting the central events of the Christian faith and Mary’s special role in salvation history. Through repetition, prayer, and warm encouragement, the episode fosters a gentle, contemplative space for individual or group prayer, inspiring gratitude and trust in God’s loving providence.