How to Pray the Rosary with Bishop Baron

The Rosary is a beautiful, meditative prayer that draws us closer to God through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. While it may seem repetitive at first, each repetition is meant to bring us deeper into the life of Christ and His mother. Praying the Rosary usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes and is composed of a series of structured prayers. Whether you’re new to the Rosary or returning to this timeless devotion, this guide will walk you through each step with clarity and peace.
What Is the Rosary?
The word Rosary means “crown of roses” and is one of the most cherished prayers in the Catholic tradition. It’s not just about repeating words—it’s a meditative journey through the major events in the life of Jesus Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary, known as the Mysteries of the Rosary.

The Rosary is typically prayed using a set of Rosary beads to help keep track of the prayers, but you can also pray it without them.
The Structure of the Rosary
The Rosary consists of:

• The Sign of the Cross
• The Apostles’ Creed
• 1 Our Father
• 3 Hail Marys
• 1 Glory Be
• 5 Decades (Each containing: 1 Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, 1 Glory Be, and the Fatima Prayer)
• The Hail Holy Queen
• Concluding Prayer (optional)

Each decade (set of ten Hail Marys) focuses on a particular Mystery—a key event in the life of Jesus and Mary.
Step-by-Step: How to Pray the Rosary

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross
   “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.”
2. Say the Apostles’ Creed
   “I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth…”
3. Say one Our Father
   “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…”
4. Say three Hail Marys
   Traditionally for an increase in the virtues of faith, hope, and charity.
5. Say one Glory Be
   “Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit…”
6. Announce the First Mystery and Pray the First Decade

• 1 Our Father
• 10 Hail Marys
• 1 Glory Be
• Optional: Fatima Prayer

1. Repeat for the Remaining Four Mysteries
2. Conclude with the Hail Holy Queen
   “Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope…”
3. End with the Sign of the Cross
   The Mysteries of the Rosary
   Each day of the week is associated with a different set of Mysteries:
   Joyful Mysteries (Monday & Saturday)
   ⦁ The Annunciation
   ⦁ The Visitation
   ⦁ The Nativity
   ⦁ The Presentation in the Temple
   ⦁ The Finding of Jesus in the Temple
   Sorrowful Mysteries (Tuesday & Friday)
   ⦁ The Agony in the Garden
   ⦁ The Scourging at the Pillar
   ⦁ The Crowning with Thorns
   ⦁ The Carrying of the Cross
   ⦁ The Crucifixion
   Glorious Mysteries (Wednesday & Sunday)
   ⦁ The Resurrection
   ⦁ The Ascension
   ⦁ The Descent of the Holy Spirit
   ⦁ The Assumption of Mary
   ⦁ The Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven
   Luminous Mysteries (Thursday)
   ⦁ The Baptism of Jesus
   ⦁ The Wedding at Cana
   ⦁ The Proclamation of the Kingdom
   ⦁ The Transfiguration
   ⦁ The Institution of the Eucharist
   Tips for Praying the Rosary
   ⦁ Find a quiet space. This allows for focus and deeper meditation.
   ⦁ Use visuals or scripture. Reflect on each Mystery by reading a relevant Bible passage.
   ⦁ Pray with intention. Offer each decade for a specific person or need.
   ⦁ Be consistent. Daily Rosary prayer, even one decade a day, can deepen your spiritual life.
   Final Thoughts
   The Rosary is more than just a prayer—it is a powerful spiritual weapon and a source of peace, strength, and grace. Whether you are praying alone, with family, or in a group, each bead offers you an opportunity to grow in love and faith.

If you’re just starting, take it slow. Don’t worry about perfection. The most important thing is to begin.