The development of the rosary has a long history. First a practice
developed of praying 150 Our Fathers in imitation of the 150 Psalms.
Then there was a parallel practice of praying 150 Hail Marys. Soon a
mystery of Jesus’ life was attached to each Hail Mary. Though Mary’s
giving of the rosary to Saint Dominic is recognized as a legend, the
development of this prayer form owes much to the followers of
Saint Dominic. One of them, Alan de la Roche, was known as “the apostle
of the rosary.” He founded the first Confraternity of the Rosary in the
15th century. In the 16th century, the rosary was developed to its
present form—with the 15 mysteries: joyful, sorrowful and glorious. In
2002, Pope John Paul II added five Mysteries of Light to this devotion.
The purpose of the rosary is to help us meditate on the great
mysteries of our salvation. Pius XII called it a compendium of the
gospel. The main focus is on Jesus—his birth, life, death, and
resurrection. The Our Fathers remind us that Jesus’ Father is the
initiator of salvation. The Hail Marys remind us to join with Mary in
contemplating these mysteries. They also make us aware that Mary was and
is intimately joined with her Son in all the mysteries of his earthly
and heavenly existence. The Glory Bes remind us that the purpose of all
life is the glory of the Trinity.
The rosary appeals to many. It is simple. The constant repetition of
words helps create an atmosphere in which to contemplate the mysteries
of God. We sense that Jesus and Mary are with us in the joys and sorrows
of life. We grow in hope that God will bring us to share in the glory
of Jesus and Mary forever.
Franciscan Media
Who We Are
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