What is the Rosary?

The rosary is more than a string of beads. It is a form of meditative prayer that leads us deeper into the life of Jesus. For centuries, Catholics have turned to the rosary for peace, strength, and spiritual growth in their daily lives.

A Brief History

The rosary as we know it today was given to St. Dominic in the 13th century. Tradition holds that Mary appeared to him, encouraging this prayer as a powerful tool against evil and a means to grow closer to her Son. Since then, countless saints and faithful Catholics have prayed it daily, finding comfort and grace in its mysteries.

Why Pray the Rosary?

Praying the rosary:

• Brings peace in times of fear or anxiety

• Draws us closer to Jesus through Mary’s intercession

• Helps create a regular rhythm of prayer

• Teaches us to meditate on the life of Christ

• The repetition of the Hail Mary's can invoke a sense of calm and peace

How to Pray the Rosary: Step by Step

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross.

2. Holding the crucifix, pray the Apostles’ Creed.

3. On the first bead, pray an Our Father.

4. On each of the next three beads, pray a Hail Mary for an increase in faith, hope, and charity.

5. Pray a Glory Be before the next bead.

6. Announce the first mystery, then pray an Our Father.

7. Pray ten Hail Marys while meditating on the mystery.

8. Conclude the decade with a Glory Be and the Fatima Prayer (“O my Jesus, forgive us our sins…”).

9. Repeat steps 6-8 for the remaining four mysteries.

10. After the five decades, pray the Hail Holy Queen.

11. Conclude with the Sign of the Cross.

Which Mysteries Do I Pray?

• Joyful Mysteries (Monday & Saturday)

• Sorrowful Mysteries (Tuesday & Friday)

• Glorious Mysteries (Wednesday & Sunday)

• Luminous Mysteries (Thursday)

(Consider printing a mysteries guide and keeping it with your rosary.)

The rosary can seem intimidating at first, but it is a prayer of peace. If you feel distracted or rushed, remember that Mary meets you right where you are. Begin with just one decade a day if needed and let the rhythm of prayer gently guide your heart back to Christ.

If You Need a New Rosary

At Darling Rosary, we create rosaries designed to be prayed with daily. Each rosary is handmade with real gemstones, strong paracord, and Italian made rosary parts to ensure durability and reverence in your prayer.

👉 Shop our handmade rosaries here

Free Rosary Prayer Guide

Want printable Rosary Prayer Guides to keep in your prayer corner?
✨ Download your free guides here ✨