Religious Life, Helping the Poor, and St Francis w/ Fr. Mark-Mary Ames
Sep 26, 2024
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Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, the Director of Communications for the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, shares insights on living a Franciscan lifestyle in today's digital age. He discusses the transformative nature of a religious vocation, emphasizing love and perseverance. The conversation moves to cultivating empathy and understanding toward the poor, while navigating the challenges of ministry. Fr. Mark-Mary also touches on the balance between personal faith and structured worship, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and emotional health in spiritual growth.
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames emphasizes the significance of choosing instrumental music over lyrical songs for improved mental clarity and peace.
The podcast discusses the conscious decision to limit smartphone use, reflecting a deeper commitment to authentic connections over digital distractions.
Personal experiences from a pilgrimage to Assisi highlight the tension between spiritual authenticity and the commercialization of religious sites.
The inner struggle with the vow of poverty among Franciscans underscores the challenge of balancing simplicity with modern consumerism.
Communal prayer and mutual accountability within the Franciscan order foster a supportive environment that nurtures individual spiritual growth.
The importance of empathy in interactions with the poor illustrates the transformative power of understanding and compassion in personal development.
Deep dives
The Impact of Music on Daily Life
The speaker discusses their experience with music, noting a shift away from songs with lyrics to more instrumental forms like jazz and lo-fi music. This change arises from a feeling of being haunted by songs that get stuck in their head, which manifests as obsessive thoughts that disrupt their peace. In contrast, background music like white noise assists in focusing during work, and they express appreciation for the mental relief this shift provides. This reflects a broader theme of personal preference affecting mental well-being, highlighting the importance of choosing environments that promote focus and calm.
Desire for Simplicity and Minimalism
The conversation shifts towards the use of technology and the desire for a simpler lifestyle, noting the impact of smartphones and constant connectivity. The speaker shares their experience of choosing to not have a SIM card in their phone, utilizing it solely as a tool in specific situations while preserving moments of authentic disconnection. This lifestyle choice emphasizes a commitment to the Franciscan vocation, valuing personal interaction over digital distractions. The idea is reinforced that conscious decisions about technology can lead to a more meaningful and peaceful life.
The Transformative Power of Pilgrimages
Sharing experiences from a pilgrimage to Assisi, the speaker underscores the profound spiritual impact of visiting significant religious sites. They describe the beauty and peace found in Assisi, as well as the realization that many perceive it as a 'medieval Disneyland.' This description prompts reflections on the juxtaposition between tourism and genuine faith experiences. The speaker expresses a personal struggle with reconciling the ideal of living a simple life as exemplified by St. Francis against the backdrop of modern consumerism and tourism, highlighting ongoing internal conflicts.
The Challenge of Living a Franciscans Life
As the dialogue continues, the speaker touches on the inner struggle faced by Franciscans, particularly regarding the vow of poverty. The tension between a commitment to simplicity and the harsh reality presented by modern life is examined. The speaker candidly reflects on feelings of inadequacy and judgment upon seeing others’ lifestyles juxtaposed with the Franciscan ideals of generosity and selflessness. This moment of introspection emphasizes the journey of self-acceptance and growth in one’s spiritual life while being guided by the example of St. Francis.
The Role of Honor and Accountability
The conversation moves to a discussion of honesty and accountability within the Franciscan community, specifically regarding how each member adheres to their vows. The speaker highlights the practice of poverty checks as a means of encouraging self-reflection among members about their relationships with material possessions. This system emphasizes a culture of mutual support and communal accountability, reinforcing the importance of integrity in living out one's vocation. Such practices deepen communal bonds and allow members to assist each other in maintaining their commitments to Franciscan values.
The Importance of Community in Spiritual Growth
The value of communal prayer and brotherhood within the Franciscan order is highlighted, as the speaker discusses how shared practices strengthen individual commitment to God. Living closely with others leads to a more profound understanding of oneself and one’s limitations, creating a nurturing environment that promotes personal growth. Additionally, incorporating feedback from brothers and structured communal activities allows for guidance and encouragement. Such frameworks ensure that spirituality remains deeply embedded in daily life and interactions.
Navigating Modern Challenges with Tradition
The discussion turns to the challenges faced by modern Catholics in navigating social media and the demand for constant engagement. The speaker notes the struggle to maintain peace and focus amidst competing distractions and societal pressures, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to technology. Drawing parallels to traditional Franciscan practices, the speaker suggests that intentionality in the use of resources can restore peace and clarity in one’s life. This highlights the ongoing spiritual battle between modern distractions and the call to deeper faith.
The Power of Surrender and Trust
In a poignant reflection, the speaker expresses the vital importance of trusting in God’s plan, especially in the face of personal failures. The belief that God knows and accepts our imperfections helps foster a sense of peace and acceptance in life. The call to surrender control over outcomes and focus on nurturing relationships with God and family emerges as a prominent theme. This understanding encourages a reliance on God's grace rather than succumbing to guilt or anxiety about perceived shortcomings.
The Importance of Compassion in Judgement
The speakers address the often conflicting experience of encountering those in poverty versus the fear and judgement that can arise in such interactions. They discuss the essentiality of empathy, reminding listeners to acknowledge their own vulnerabilities and imperfections before judging others. The conversation highlights the need for understanding and compassion, illustrating how personal experiences can deepen one’s connection to the suffering of others. Relating to the poor not only fosters community but also expands personal growth in humility and grace.
Cultivating a Joyful Existence
The speakers reflect on the significance of rejoicing in one's life and maintaining a spirit of gratitude despite life’s challenges. They discuss how actively choosing to focus on joy and thanksgiving can transform one's mental and emotional landscape. References to scriptural encouragement serve as a reminder of the call to embrace a joyful life rooted in faith. This perspective invites individuals to resist negativity and to cultivate a consistent attitude of thankfulness as part of their spiritual journey.
The Role of the Spiritual Guide
A discussion on the importance of spiritual guidance highlights the need for mentors and leaders within faith communities. The speaker emphasizes the profound impact that wise counsel can have on personal growth and discernment, especially during critical life events. Investing in spiritual friendship and mentorship encourages individuals to confront their struggles candidly and hold onto hope through community engagement. This concept exemplifies the interconnectedness of faith, guidance, and personal evolution in the spiritual journey.
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames, CFR is the Director of Communications and Priestly Studies for the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal (CFR). He is a weekly presenter on Ascension Presents and the host of The Poco a Poco Podcast. His work is deeply rooted in his commitment to prayer, contemplation, and service, especially to the poor. Originally from Southern California, Fr. Mark-Mary experienced a profound conversion during his first year of college, leading him to embrace his vocation as a Franciscan friar and priest
