I'am at part 2 of the timed puzzle where you have to provide a light source to illuminate mother mary's eyes.I'am having problems getting the rod in inventory to lengthen after I've clicked on it? Whats missing?

Jackie,

This is the rod taken from the altar after the puzzle, correct?
Have you looked-zoomed in on that rod? Then clicked on it?
Are you holding the correct rod? There are I think one or 2 metal rod-looking ones in inventory.

Mag,
There is a metal rod and bar in inventory but I did'nt see a rod on the alter after I completed the 3rd timed puzzle. I see a hole on the alter where the rod is to be inserted,but I can't find the rod on the alter,only the action cursor when I approach the alter.

Did you do the puzzle of the circle on the front of the altar?
If you did that circle opens up and there's a hole inside. Inside is the rod/stand.

Now I see! When I finished that puzzle,I backed out of the puzzle without noticing the cavity. I guess I'll go back to a save game prior to this puzzle and start over from there. Thanks Mag. That is what I miss.

Now we know - have fun with the conclusion of the game.