

The Rosary in a Year (with Fr. Mark-Mary Ames)
Ascension
In Ascension’s Rosary in a Year podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR, guides listeners in a step-by-step journey that will change the way you pray – no matter where you are in your spiritual life.
By starting small and adding on over time, listeners will find themselves falling more in love with this powerful Marian devotion, becoming a source of grace for the whole world.
Listen to discover….
How to build a daily habit of prayer
How to form a relationship with Jesus and Mary
The Biblical foundations of the Rosary
How to meditate with sacred art (visio divina), saint writings, and scripture (lectio divina)
The power of Mary’s influence in your life
…and more.
For the complete prayer plan, visit https://ascensionpress.com/riy.
By starting small and adding on over time, listeners will find themselves falling more in love with this powerful Marian devotion, becoming a source of grace for the whole world.
Listen to discover….
How to build a daily habit of prayer
How to form a relationship with Jesus and Mary
The Biblical foundations of the Rosary
How to meditate with sacred art (visio divina), saint writings, and scripture (lectio divina)
The power of Mary’s influence in your life
…and more.
For the complete prayer plan, visit https://ascensionpress.com/riy.
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 10min
Day 20: Eyes of Mercy (2026)
Fr. Mark-Mary reflects on the warmth of Mary's Magnificat, highlighting how God embraces our small offerings with joy. He shares insights from the story of the poor widow, reminding us that sincere gifts are what truly matter to Jesus. The discussion emphasizes the beauty of imperfect love, encouraging listeners to offer their best without the pressure of perfection. Fr. Mark-Mary paints a picture of the holy family's humble life in Nazareth, fostering a sense of connection and mercy in our prayers.

6 snips
Jan 19, 2026 • 9min
Day 19: Valley of Tears (2026)
In a heartfelt discussion, the host reflects on the concept of being in a 'valley of tears,' emphasizing that we are never alone. The conversation highlights Mary's role as a companion in our sufferings. Listeners are reminded of the profound connection between Mary and Jesus during the crucifixion. A touching story about a widow illustrates the comfort many find in the crucified Christ. The episode culminates in prayer, encouraging all to reach out to Mary and Jesus for solace amidst struggles.

6 snips
Jan 18, 2026 • 7min
Day 18: Our Sweetness, Our Hope (2026)
Fr. Mark-Mary reflects on the Hail Holy Queen, emphasizing the deep connection between the Eucharist and Mary. He discusses how Jesus not only fulfills our needs but also offers us joy and sweetness through His gifts. The symbolism of bread as nourishment contrasts with wine's celebratory symbolism, highlighting God's generosity. The podcast sheds light on Mary as a source of sweetness and joy in our spiritual lives, making prayer a joyful experience.

8 snips
Jan 17, 2026 • 10min
Day 17: Turn On the Light (2026)
Discover the profound meaning behind the Sign of the Cross as it's rooted in scripture from Matthew and Psalms. Explore how this simple prayer can illuminate our faith, allowing us to experience life through God's perspective. Learn about the significance of baptism as it grants the gift of faith and the ability to see divine mysteries clearly. Fr. Mark-Mary emphasizes how ending prayers with the Sign of the Cross entrusts us to God's grace, encouraging a deeper connection in prayer.

19 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 8min
Day 16: Glorify Him (2026)
Prayer often focuses on requests, but true praise is a gift we give to God. Discover the beauty of the 'Glory Be' prayer as an act of adoration and its roots in the Psalms. The discussion emphasizes that praise should be selfless, inspired by love for God rather than personal gains. Personal stories illuminate this profound approach to prayer, inviting us to celebrate God's inherent qualities. Join in praying one Our Father, three Hail Marys, and one Glory Be, fostering a deeper connection with the divine.

6 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 8min
Day 15: Deliver Us From Evil (2026)
Fr. Mark-Mary shares insights on the Good Shepherd, emphasizing God’s protective nature. He explores the Fall in Eden, revealing how original sin disrupted trust in God. The discussion highlights Christ’s sacrificial love as He seeks every sinner, aiming to heal that deep wound of distrust. Listeners are encouraged to meditate on God's goodness while praying the Our Father, focusing on the plea for protection from temptation. The session wraps up with prayers that guide hearts back to the Father's love.

6 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 11min
Day 14: As We Forgive (2026)
Forgiveness is at the heart of today’s discussion, as listeners explore the principle of forgiving others just as we have been forgiven. A poignant parable from Matthew 18 highlights the vastness of God's mercy. A delightful nachos story adds a personal twist, illustrating how generosity embodies this message. Fr. Mark Mary emphasizes the necessity of divine grace in our hearts for true forgiveness. The session concludes with prayers, inviting a deeper connection to mercy through daily practices.

5 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 9min
Day 13: Daily Bread (2026)
Explore the profound meaning behind 'daily bread' in the Lord's Prayer. Discover how Biblical examples like manna illustrate God's ongoing provision for humanity. Fr. Mark-Mary highlights the importance of gathering grace daily through prayer. He also addresses the contrast between anxiety and trust in God's care. Dive into the spiritual nourishment that fuels discipleship, reminding us to seek divine support each day. Join in prayer as we collectively ask for our daily bread.

5 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 8min
Day 12: Thy Will Be Done (2026)
Fr. Mark-Mary dives into the wisdom of becoming childlike to enter the kingdom of heaven. He highlights the beauty of children's dependence contrasted with adult self-reliance. Through relatable examples, he illustrates the grace of trusting God like a child trusts their parents. The discussion connects this dependence to Jesus' heartfelt prayer in Gethsemane, emphasizing surrendering to God's will. Listeners are invited to reflect on areas needing trust and support while engaging in heartfelt prayer practices.

5 snips
Jan 11, 2026 • 9min
Day 11: Our Father in Heaven (2026)
Fr. Mark-Mary explores the profound connection between prayer and relationships, starting with the Biblical story of Jacob and Esau. He contrasts Jacob's fearful approach with Jesus' invitation to address God as 'Our Father.' Listeners are encouraged to approach prayer with childlike confidence rather than fear. Through personal anecdotes, he emphasizes love over a transactional view of God. The discussion serves as a reflective journey, inviting deeper, more intimate communication with the divine.


