The Holy Rosary is a Scripture-based prayer that begins with the Apostles' Creed, followed by the Our Father, three Hail Marys for an increase of faith, hope, and charity, and the Glory Be. The Rosary focuses on 20 mysteries that reflect on the life of Jesus and Mary.
Pope John Paul II called the Rosary "a compendium of the Gospel" — a meditation on the great events of salvation history. It is a powerful intercessory prayer and a means of growing in holiness.
The Four Sets of Mysteries
The Joyful Mysteries focus on the Incarnation and childhood of Jesus. The Sorrowful Mysteries meditate on His Passion and Death. The Glorious Mysteries celebrate His Resurrection and the glory of Mary. The Luminous Mysteries, added by John Paul II, contemplate Christ's public ministry.
