THE SIGN OF THE CROSS

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

THE NICENE CREED

I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of
all things visible and invisible.

I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born
of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God
from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father;
through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he
came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the
Virgin Mary and became man. For our sake he was crucified under
Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the
third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory
to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds
from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored
and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets.

I believe in one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. I confess one

Baptism for the forgiveness of sins, and I look forward to the
resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom
come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we
forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation
but deliver us from evil. Amen.

HAIL MARY
Hail Mary, Full of Grace, The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among
women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now, and at the hour of
death.

GLORY BE
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end.

FATIMA PRAYER
O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell, and lead
all souls to Heaven, especially those in most need of Thy mercy

HAIL HOLY QUEEN

Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy,
our life, our sweetness, and our hope.
To you do we cry,
poor banished children of Eve.
To you do we send up our sighs,
mourning and weeping in this valley of tears
Turn then, most gracious advocate,
your eyes of mercy toward us,
and after this exile
show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb,
Jesus.
O clement, O loving,
O sweet Virgin Mary.

CONCLUDING PRAYER
O God, whose only begotten Son, by His life, death, and resurrection,
has purchased for us the rewards of eternal salvation; grant we beseech
Thee, that meditating upon these mysteries of the most holy Rosary of
the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain
what they promise. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
THE MYSTERIES OF JOY (Mondays and Saturdays)
First Joyful Mystery
THE ANNUNCIATION
Scripture reading (cf. Luke 1:26-38)
The angel Gabriel was sent form god to a virgin, whose name was Mary.
He said to her, “Hail, O favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she
was greatly troubled at the saying. The angel said, “Do not be afraid,
Mary, for you have found favor with God. You will conceive and bear a
son, and you will name him Jesus. “Mary said, “How can this be, since I
know not man?” the angel said, “The holy Spirit will come upon you,
therefore the Child will be holy, the Son of God. For nothing is
impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, the handmaid of the
Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”

Meditation
The heavenly Father wishes to make a new beginning in the story of his
love for mankind. But he does not simply issue an order. Instead, to seal
the New Covenant, he seeks the free consent of a young woman. Since
she is conceived without Original Sin, Mary is totally open and obedient
to God’s will. With childlike candor she seeks, and receives, an answer.
The Son of God becomes one of us, like us in all but sin. Mary dares to
take the leap of unconditional faith: “Let it be to me according to your
word.”

Prayer
Holy Spirit, teach us to be always open to the Father’s will. Give us the
courage, like Mary, to utter our “yes” wholeheartedly. Bless young
people and open their hearts to the Gospel of Jesus. And lead us all on
the way to the Father. Amen.
Second Joyful Mystery
THE VISITATION
Scripture reading (cf. Luke 1:39-55)
Mary went to haste into the hill country. She entered the house of
Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. when Elizabeth heard the greeting of
Mary, the babe leaped in her womb. Elizabeth was filled with the Holy
Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb! Blessed is she who believed what
was spoken by the Lord.”
and Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in
God my savior, for he has regarded the law state of his handmaiden.
Henceforth all generations will call me blessed. holy is his name. He has
put down the proud, an exalted those of low degree.”

Meditation
After the son of God had taken flesh in Mary's womb she could have
remained at home, delighting in his immeasurable gift. Instead, she sets
out in haste to help her cousin Elizabeth. two unborn children meet, two
mothers embrace. Mary is bearing Christ. In the Magnificat, her song of
Thanksgiving, she foretells the Redeemer, who will be close to the poor
and the weak.

Prayer
Jesus, your presence gives life and joy and protection to every growing
unborn life. Help us to realize that every person is a child of God from
the first moment of his existence and that you are his Brother. Grant us
the spirit of service that Mary had and bless all mothers who were
expecting a child. Amen.
Third Joyful Mystery
THE NATIVITY
Scripture reading (cf. Luke 2: 7-12)
Mary gave birth to her first-born son. She wrapped him in swaddling
cloths and laid him in a Manger, because there was no place for them in
the inn. there were shepherds in that region. The Angel of the Lord
appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they
were filled with fear. the Angel said to them, “Be not afraid; for I bring
you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people; for the
day a savior is born to you. He is Christ the Lord. and this will be a sign
for you: you will find a babe wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a
Manger.

Meditation
The only begotten Son of the Father, Almighty God, is born as man,
born of the Virgin Mary. He comes not as a mighty King; he chooses
neither the capital city of a Kingdom nor a palace. He finds no place to
stay, not even at the inn. He cannot yet speak. And yet he is the living
Word of the Father, the visible proof of his merciful love. God has
become a child, no one can fear him. Poor shepherds are the first people
he calls. He is the great joy of the father for our world.

Prayer
Father in Heaven, for millions of the homeless, of refugees from war and
disaster, there is no room at the inn this night. Many children are born
into this world in conditions unworthy of our human dignity. Jesus in his
poverty lives in them. Show us how to welcome them into the peace of
Bethlehem. Amen.
Fourth joyful mystery
REPRESENTATION OF THE CHILD JESUS IN THE TEMPLE
Scripture reading (cf. Luke 2: 22-35)
When the time came for their purification, they brought the child up to
Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. There was a man there named
Simeon who was righteous and devout. inspired by the Holy Spirit, he
came into the temple. when the parents brought Jesus in, sing me onto
the child into his arms and blessed God and said, “Lord, now may your
servant depart in peace; for my eyes have seen the salvation.” and he
said to Mary, “This child will be a sign of contradiction, any word will
pierce your own soul also.”

Meditation
The Holy Family submits to the purification required by the Law for a
first-born son. In the temple, Jesus, Marie, and Joseph Are welcomed by
the aged Simeon and the widow Anna. Both have lived in the faith of
Israel and have been awaiting the Messiah with longing. Simeon
recognizes Jesus as the Savior. He praises God and prophecies the way
of suffering that awaits Jesus and his mother. From the very first
moment Mary is associated with the redemptive work of her Son.

Prayer
Saint Joseph, just as Simeon never lost hope of seeing the Messiah, so
now obtain for all old people the certain faith of seeing Jesus face to
face. and may all the widowed who mourn a departed spouse be given
grace to live, like Anna, in the consoling presence of the Lord. Amen.
Fifth Joyful Mystery
THE FINDING OF THE CHILD JESUS IN THE TEMPLE
Scripture reading (cf. Luke 2: 43-52)
The boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it.
When they did not find him, they returned into Jerusalem seeking him.
After three days, they found him in the temple, sitting among the
teachers, listening to them, and asking them questions. His mother said
to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? your father and I have been
looking for you anxiously.” And he said to them, “Did you not know
that I must be in my Fath er's house?” They did not understand him. get
it turned to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. And he
increased in wisdom and in favor with God and man.

Meditation
Jesus takes an important step in his development as a young man. He
does so in obedience to his father. This moment of maturing as a family
contains a message and a grace. His parents react with sorrow and
concern for their missing son, but at the same time with great respect.
Although the answer of the sun is beyond Mary’s understanding, yet she
“treasures these things in her heart.” And she confirms herself with
perfect docility to the mysterious plan of God.

Prayer
Mary, mother of our families, in the struggles of our daily life we do not
always understand one another. Help us to respect the uniqueness of
each person and to find God even in those things we cannot understand.
Give light to all parents who in your name exercise responsibility for
their children. Amen.
THE MYSTERIES OF LIGHT (Thursdays)
First Mystery of Light
THE BAPTISM OF OUR LORD IN THE RIVER JORDAN
Scripture reading (cf. luke 3:16; 21-22)
John said to the people, “I baptize you with water; but he who is
mightier then I is coming, the thong of whose sandals I am not ready to
untie. he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.” When all
the people were baptized, and Jesus also had been baptized and was
spraying, the heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon
him in bodily form, as a dove, and a voice came from heaven, “You are
my beloved son; review I am well pleased.”

Meditation
John, the precursor, knows who he is and what his mission is. although
the crowd acclaims him, he does not deviate in the slightest from his role
in God's plan. He recognizes the Messiah who comes, along with
sinners, do the river Jordan. Jesus permits himself to be baptized, just
like the ordinary Jewish believers. the heavens open and in shining
symbols of the triune God reveals the richness of his mystery-the father
who speaks words of fondest love for his son and the spirit as fire and as
dove of peace. Now Christ can begin his mission and proclaim the
Kingdom.

Prayer
Father, you have revealed to us your love for your divine son, who took
flash from the blessed Virgin Mary. Through the help of your spirit, lead
all who are baptized in the name of Jesus the full unity, “so that the
world may believe.” Bless with their parents and godparents. Make the
flickering flame of faith become a living fire. Amen.
Second Mystery of Light
CHRIST’S SELF-REVELATION AT THE MARRIAGE FEES IN
CANA
Scripture reading (cf. John 2: 1-26)
There was a wedding at the Cana in Galilee. the mother of Jesus was
there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited. when they ran
out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to him, “they have no wine.” Jesus
said, “woman, why turn to me? my hour has not yet come.” she said to
the servants, “fill the jars with water. draw some out now and take it to
the steward.” the steward said to the bridegroom, “people generally
serve the best wine first, but you have kept the best wine till now.” this
was the first sign given by Jesus. he let his glory be seen, and his
disciples believed in him.

Meditation
the first miracle was not the healing of a sick person. the first sign of his
messianic mission is to ensure the happiness of a wedding feast. he turns
120 gallons of water into wine and reveals the abundance of the joy he
brings. he addresses his mother as “woman” and so, as later on the cross,
he indicates that she is the New Eve, alongside himself, the new Adam.
his mother's power of intercession causes him to anticipate his “hour”.
and she gives ask the program for our lives as Christians. “Do whatever
he tells you.” the faith of the apostles is first ignited in Cana.

Prayer
Mary of Cana, intercede today for all married people. beseech your son
to turn stale water into the wine of strong, patient, selfless, fruitful, and
joyful love. Speak to him on behalf of the Universal Church, is Bride,
and say: “They have no wine.” And may he keep her always faithful.
Amen.
Third Mystery of Light
CHRIST'S PROCLAMATION OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
AND HIS CALL TO CONVERSION
Scripture reading (cf. Mark 1: 14-15)
after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of
God and saying, “the time is fulfilled and the Kingdom of God is at
hand; repent, and believe in the gospel.”

Meditation
our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, has explained this passage in the
gospel of Saint mark in these glowing words: “Jesus proclaims the
coming of the Kingdom of God, calls to conversion and forgives the sins
of all who draw near to him in humble trust---the inauguration of that
mystery of mercy which he continues to exercise until the end of the
world, particularly through the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Rosarium
Virginis Mariae, 21).”

Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, your Spouse the Church today continues your
proclamation of the Kingdom. these signs of the time call us to a new
evangelization. Through your Holy Spirit convert us again in again to a
life of reparation and sanctity. Fill us with the fire of your spirit, so that
we may bear the light of your Good News into every area of human life
and every region of the world. Enlighten the nations, so that through the
intercession of Mary, the Queen of the universe, they may embrace your
words of life and build your Kingdom of peace. Amen.
Fourth Mystery of Life
THE TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD
Scripture reading (cf. Mark 9: 2-9)
Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John onto a high mountain. And
he was transfigured before them, and his garments became glistening,
intensely white. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses; and they
were talking to Jesus. and Peter said to Jesus, “master, it is well that we
are here; let us make three booths, one for you and one for Moses and
one for Elijah.” And a cloud overshadowed them and a voice came out
of the cloud, “this is my beloved son: listen to him.” Jesus forbade them
to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of man should have risen
from the dead.

Meditation
only Peter, the head of the College of apostles, and James and John
we're witness as to the total abandonment of Jesus in Gethsemane. he
prepares them for this by anticipating his risen glory. the father reveals
the intensity of his divine love for the son. they come to understand that
the cross does not mean annihilation, but transition to the new dawn.
they will be able to tell the world why the Risen Lord bares wounds that
shine like the sun of Mount Tabor.

Prayer
Peter, James, and John, to you it was granted to contemplate the beauty
and truth of his Countenance. Intercede for all who consecrate
themselves to God in the contemplative life. Pray for the artists who
strive to reflect God's beauty and for all who sincerely seek after truth.
teach us to preserve within ourselves the lights of Mount Tabor, so that
we may be faithful in Gethsemane. Amen.
Fifth Mystery of Light
THE INSTITUTION OF THE EUCHARIST
scripture reading (cf. 1 Cor. 11:23-26)
I, Paul, received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the
Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he
had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “this is my body which is for
you. do this in remembrance of me.” in the same way also the cup, after
supper, saying, “this cup is the new covenant in my blood. do this, as
often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” for us often as you eat this
bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.

Meditation
The Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian life. In eat the sun
praises the father, in the Holy Spirit. It renews our redemption, makes it
present in the today of our history and is a foretaste of the Heavenly
Banquet. Jesus instituted it when in his sacrifice of redemption, he
showed “the fullness” of his love. He instituted the priesthood so that the
memorial of his mercy might continue through the ages. The whole
creation participates in the fruits of the earth and the work of human
hands. we are in the body and the blood. he is the paschal lamb, given "
for the life of the world.” He is food for the journey, viaticum, Real
Presence in all our churches.

Prayer
God, Holy Spirit, by your power Christ became flesh in the womb of the
blessed Virgin Mary; and so too, in every Eucharistic Celebration, you
transform bread and wine. Take likewise over daily striving, the burdens
and the joys of all mankind, and transform them into an offering of
praise to the father of mercy. Amen.
THE MYSTERIES OF SORROW (Tuesdays and Fridays)
First Sorrowful Mystery
THE AGONY IN THE GARDEN
Scripture reading (cf. Mark 14:32-45; Luke 22:44)
Jesus took with him Peter and James and John to Gethsemane. There he
began to be greatly distressed and troubled. And he said to them, “My
soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch.” He fell
on the ground and prayed, “Abba, Father, all things are possible to thee;
remove this cup from me; yet not what I will, but what your will.” And
his sweat became like great drops of blood falling upon the ground.
Three times he came to his disciples and found them sleeping. then
Judas came with a crowd of men, armed with swords. He said, “Hail
Rabbi!” And he kissed Jesus.

Meditation
On the night on the mount of olives he wanted to have his three closest
friends with him---the same friends whom he had taken with him unto
the mount of the transfiguration. But they are overcome by sadness and
by sleep. Alone, he turns to his father with the most tender worry in his
language: “Abba, dear Father.” and the most intensely human of appeals
breaks from his lips: “Take this suffering from me…”. Then, with divine
majesty, Jesus declares his total obedience, just as he taught us in the
Lord's prayer: “Thy will and not mine be done, Abba.” The traitor
delivers him up.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, look upon all who suffer fear and depression, on those
whose souls are in darkness. For you took to yourself the abandonment
of all the redeemed. Be with us in our own Gethsemane, so that we too
may say with you: “Abba, their Father.” Amen.
Second Sorrowful Mystery
THE SCOURGING AT THE PILLAR
Scripture reading (cf. John 18: 38-40; 19:1)
Pilate then went out to the Jews again, and told them, I find no crime in
him. but you have a custom that I should release one man for you at the
Passover; “Will you have me released for you the king of the Jews?”
they cried out again, “not this man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a
robber. Then Pilate took Jesus and scourged him.

Meditation
Bound to a column, Jesus kneels with bent back, ask the cruel blows of
this scourge rained down upon him. Pilate finds no guilt in him, but he
wants to curry favor with the crowd. The Roman governor fears the
political consequences of setting Jesus free. The crowd, whipped up by
demagogues, wants to see the innocent one punished and the dangerous
criminals set free. lies and injustice prevail. Now begins the brutal
oppression which millions of martyrs will likewise suffer, for love of
Christ, throughout the course of history.

Prayer
Holy Spirit, light of truth, and encourage of those who act justly. Sustain
all who hold power, in government and law, in the media and in society.
Grant them your grace; may they not trample on the dignity of their
brothers and sisters, especially the poor and weak, but truly and
responsibly serve the people. Amen.
Third Sorrowful Mystery
THE CROWNING WITH THORNS
Scripture reading (cf. Matthew 27:27-31)
Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the praetorium, and
they gathered the whole battalion before him. And they stripped him and
put a scarlet robe upon him and plaiting a crown of thorns they put it on
his head and put a reed hand. And kneeling before him they mocked
him, saying, “Hail, king of the Jews!” and they spat about him.

Meditation
The scarlet of his cloak mingles with the blood from the lashes and
blows of the scourges. It glows brightly like the flame of his redeeming
love. Jesus might have chosen for himself the most precious and
glorious of all crowns, but he preferred to let them force a crown of
thorns down hard on his head. He chose to become our king through his
total obedience to the Father's will. The shepherd has become the lamb.
The ruler of all is the man of sorrows. The new Adam, the father of the
new humanity, stands defenseless as a child.

Prayer
Jesus Christ, in our society great harm is inflicted upon so many
innocent souls. May your mighty arm protect them, your good
Samaritan’s hands bind up their wounds, and your merciful gaze bring
peace to their hearts. Amen.
Fourth Sorrowful Mystery
THE CARRYING OF THE CROSS
Scripture reading (cf. Mark 15: 20-22)
And they let him out the crucify him. And they compelled a passerby,
Simone of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of
Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross. and they brought him to the
place called Golgotha. which means the place of a skull.

Meditation
The blows and the inner darkness of the preceding hours have weakened
him. The soldiers now heaped on him the weight of the heavy cross.
Several times he falls. But he gets up again and goes on. Now he can go
no further. Simon of Cyrene is forced to help him. Some of the women
feel pity for him, not knowing who he is or why he will die. John, the
youngest of the twelve, is the only one who follows him. Bravely,
Veronica steps forward. Tenderly, she wipes his battered and derided
features. Mary, his mother and most faithful companion, steps forward.
Their glances meet and silently express a love that is greater than all this
sea of suffering.

Prayer
Saint John, at the Last Supper you were privileged to lean on the breasts
of the Lord and hear the beating of his heart---a heart ready for a
sacrifice and for the thrust of the lance. Intercede for the sick and for
prisoners, for all without work and bread, for the lonely and aged and for
all who suffer; may they find the strength they need. And may we be
their Veronica and their Simon---in daily life and in moments of great
trial. Amen.
Fifth Sorrowful Mystery
THE CRUCIFIXION
Scripture reading (cf. Luke 23: 33-34: John 19: 26-34)
And when they came to the place which is called the skull, there they
crucified him. and Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not
what they do.” When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he
loved standing near, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!”
Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour,
the disciple took her to his own home. They gave him a sponge filled
with vinegar. When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished.”; and he
bowed his head and gave up his spirit. When he was dead one of the
soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood
and water.

Meditation
Jesus is the only one of us who need not have died. He chose to do so, to
free the world of sin and to reconcile each one of us with the father. this
common bond should be a ground for peace among men. Jesus pleads
with the father for his executioners. In dying he forgives. this love is the
hallmark of the Christian martyr. Saint Stephen too, the first Christian
martyr, would later as pardon for his murderers as he lay dying.

Prayer
Mother beneath the cross, it cannot be that your son has shed his blood
in vain. Instruct us in the faith, teach us to attune our hearts to Christ,
through his spirit of reconciliation, so that we too can truly pray the
Lord's prayer: “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who
trespass against us.” Make an instrument of reconciliation---in the
family and in the workplace, in the church and in the world. Amen.
THE MYSTERIES OF GLORY (Wednesdays and Sundays)
First Glorious Mystery
THE RESURRECTION
Scripture reading (cf. John 20: 11-17)
Mary Magdalene stood weeping outside the tomb. she turned around and
saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus
said to her, “Woman why are you weeping? Whom do you seek?”
Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have
carried him away tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him
away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him, “Rabboni
(Teacher)!” Jesus said to her, “Go to my brethren and say to them, I am
ascending to my father and your father, to my God and your God.”

Meditation
Death does not have the last word. in the night Christ is awakened by the
Holy Spirit. It is the Sunday of victory. In her grief Mary Magdalene
does not recognize Jesus. But when she hears her own name on the lips
of her Lord, then everything comes alive again in her---the hour of
pardon, the death on the Friday. The gospel writers tell us that she was
the first to see the risen Lord. The Lord sends her to the apostles so that
she may proclaim to them the victory of love. The father of Jesus is now
our father also, and Christ calls his disciples “my brothers”.

Prayer
St. Mary Magdalene, ask the Lord to fill us with hope and joy. With the
Mother of God, beg him to grant every woman the grace to be a herald
of the risen Lord, a bearer of life in family and society, in the Church
and in the life of the nations. Amen.
Second Glorious Mystery
THE ASCENSION
Scripture reading (cf. Acts 1:3-11)
After his passion Jesus showed himself alive to the apostles by many
proofs. For 40 days he appeared to them and spoke to them of the
Kingdom of God. While they were together, he told them: “You shall
receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall
be my witness is in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria end to the
end of the earth.” And when he had said this, is there a looking on, he
was lifted, and a cloud took him up off their sight. And behold, two men
stood by them in white robes and said, “This Jesus will come again in
the same way as you saw him go.”

Meditation
Man has his origin in the love of the Blessed Trinity. Our life is the story
of our return to the Father's house. Jesus, the head of the new creation,
already lives in the father. He is the first born from the dead. He has
gone ahead to prepare a dwelling for each one of us. And he does not
abandon us as we continue our Pilgrim way. As the Good Shepherd and
our elder brother, he intercedes for each one of the redeemed. In heaven
he still retains his five wounds, as a sign that he is close to us in our
trials. Our mission is to prepare the earth for his return in glory.

Prayer
Eternal Father, your Divine Son was born of the Blessed Virgin Mary
and took flesh from our flesh. In his glorified wounds he hides our
wounds. Look up on his merits and grant your mercy to all the dead
during their time of purification. Sustain the dying. And at the hour of
our death look upon us, sheltering beneath the mantle of our Mother,
Mary. Amen.

Third Glorious Mystery

THE DESCENT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Scripture reading (cf. Acts 1:14; 2:1-4)
With one accord the apostles devoted themselves to prayer, together
with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.
When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one
place. And suddenly a sound came from heaven like the rush of a mighty
wind, any field all the house where they were sitting. And there
appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributed and resting on each one
of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak
in other tongues, as they spirit gave them utterance.

Meditation
Yearning and trepidation fill their hearts. And still they have not
understood the teaching of the master. Only Mary is certain of the
support they will receive. Her fervent prayer brings the comforter down.
Just as earlier the spirit had awakened Jesus, so now he descends upon
the church. Now they are orphans no more; for the spirits sighs within
them “Abba, dear Father”. There is no confusion of languages now, as
once in Babel, for the spirit is the soul of the family that is the church.
Now they spirit is sending them, no longer fearful or indifferent, to
extend the Kingdom unto the ends of the earth.

Prayer
Holy Spirit, giver of life, our bishops are the direct successors of the
twelve apostles. By the imposition of their hands, they consecrate our
priests and deacons in your power. Grant us, through the intercession of
the queen of the apostles, numerous and holy servants of the world and
the sacraments. Grant us all the grace to live in the fire of your love.
Amen.

Fourth Glorious Mystery

THE ASSUMPTION
Reading from scripture and the church (cf. Luke 1: 46-48; Second
Vatican Council, Lumen Gentium 59)
And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God
my savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For
behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.” The Immaculate
Virgin, preserve free from all stain of original sin, was taken up body
and soul into heavenly glory, when her earthly life was over, and exalted
by the Lord as queen over all things, that she might be the more fully
conformed to her son, the Lord of lords, The Conqueror of sin and
death.”

Meditation
Some idolize the body. Others despise it, caring little whether their
fellow humans have the food, clothing or medical care they need. Our
bodies must be temples of the Holy Spirit. Mary is the sanctuary in
which the Holy Trinity fully dwells. She gave herself with heart and soul
to the work of Jesus, and therefore she is forever associated with her
risen Son, in body and in soul. This is no mere metaphor but a deep
mystery. Just as real ask the resurrection is the fact that a human,
motherly heart of flesh and blood now beats for us in heaven.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, you took your own human body from the Virgin Mary.
Teach us to treat our own bodies with reverence, gratitude, and firm
discipline. Enlighten each one of us, according to our state in life, with
the purity of Mary, so that our bodies may reflect the immortal dignity
of the soul which enlivens them. Amen

Fifth Glorious Mystery

THE CORONATION OF OUR LADY AND THE GLORY OF
THE SAINTS

Scripture reading (cf. Rev. 12:1-5; 10)

A great portent appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, with
the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of 12 stars; she was
with child and she cried out in her pangs of birth. And another portent
appeared in heaven; behold, a great red dragon, with seven heads and 10
horns, and seven diadems upon his heads. And the dragon stood before
the woman, to devour her child when she brought it forth. and she
brought forth a male child, one who is the rule all the nations with a rod
of iron. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation
and the power and the Kingdom of our God and the authority of his
Christ have come.”

Meditation
The Triune God crowns marry us queen of the universe. This is no mere
honorary title that leaves our own lives untouched. Mary participates in
the power of Christ, the Lord of history, through her powerful
intercession. She aids the church in the struggle against the devil, the
Prince of lies, of hatred, division, injustice and despair. Clothed with the
Sun of the risen Lord, she is the sign of victory for our times, just as she
revealed to the shepherd children in Fatima. Her son rules overall history
with his mysterious iron scepter.
Prayer
Marry scripture tells us that the devil continues to make war on those
“who keep the commandments of God and bear testimony to Jesus”
(Rev. 12:17). O Woman, New Eve, strengthen those Christians who are
persecuted, openly or covertly, even to the shedding of their blood, “for
they loved not their lives even unto death (Rev 12:11), but clung fast to
their witness for Christ. Amen.

LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Lord, have mercy. *
Christ, have mercy. *
Lord, have mercy. *
Christ, hear us. *
Christ, graciously hear us.*
God, the Father of heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, pray for us.
Holy Mother of God, pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, pray for us.
Mother of Christ, pray for us.
Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Mother of divine grace, pray for us.
Mother most pure, pray for us.
Mother most chaste, pray for us.
Mother inviolate, pray for us.
Mother undefiled, pray for us.
Mother most amiable, pray for us.
Mother most admirable, pray for us.
Mother of good counsel, pray for us.
Mother of our Creator, pray for us.
Mother of our Savior, pray for us.
Virgin most prudent, pray for us.
Virgin most venerable, pray for us.
Virgin most renowned, pray for us.
Virgin most powerful, pray for us.
Virgin most merciful, pray for us.
Virgin most faithful, pray for us.
Mirror of justice, pray for us.
Seat of wisdom, pray for us.
Cause of our joy, pray for us.
Spiritual vessel, pray for us.
Vessel of honor, pray for us.
Singular vessel of devotion, pray for us.
Mystical rose, pray for us.
Tower of David, pray for us.
Tower of ivory, pray for us.
House of gold, pray for us.
Ark of the covenant, pray for us.
Gate of heaven, pray for us.
Morning star, pray for us.
Health of the sick, pray for us.
Refuge of sinners, pray for us.
Comforter of the afflicted, pray for us.
Help of Christians, pray for us.
Queen of Angels, pray for us.
Queen of Patriarchs, pray for us.
Queen of Prophets, pray for us.
Queen of Apostles, pray for us.
Queen of Martyrs, pray for us.
Queen of Confessors, pray for us.
Queen of Virgins, pray for us.
Queen of all Saints, pray for us.
Queen conceived without original sin, pray for us.
Queen assumed into heaven, pray for us.
Queen of the most holy Rosary, pray for us.
Queen of families, pray for us.
Queen of peace, pray for us.
Lamb of God, you take away sins of the world, spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, graciously hear us,
O Lord.
Lamb of God, you takeaway the sins of the world, have mercy on us.

Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.

That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
 SONGS FOR ENTRANCE AND CONCLUDING PART FOR THE
PRAYING OF THE HOLY ROSARY

Mary Immaculate, Star of the Morning

I.
Mary Immaculate, Star of the Morning
Chosen before the creation began,
Destined to bring, through the light of your dawning
Conquest of Satan and rescue to men.
Refrain:
Bend from your throne at the voice of our crying.
Look to this earth where your footsteps have trod.
Stretch out your arms to us, living and dying,
Mary Immaculate, Mother of God.
II.
We, sinners, honor your sinless perfection.
Fallen and weak, for God’s mercy we plead.
Grant us the shield of your mighty protection.
Measure your aid by depth of our need.
Repeat Refrain

Immaculate Mother
Immaculate Mother, to you do we plead,
To ask God, our Father, for help in our need.

Ref:
Ave, Ave, Ave Maria! Ave, Ave, Ave Maria!

We pray for our country, the land of our birth,

We pray for all nations that peace be on earth.
In grief and temptation, in joy and in pain,
We'll seek thee, our Mother, nor seek thee in vain.

We pray for our Mother, the Church upon earth,

And bless, sweetest lady, the land of our birth.

Holy Mary, Now We Crown You(Ora Pro Nobis)

Holy Mary, now we crown you,
Honored Queen of all our race;
Noble Virgin, may our tribute
Win your love and gain us grace.

Refrain:
Ora pro nobis!
Amen!
Ora pro nobis!
Amen!

On this day we sing your praises,

Purest Maid of all the earth,
While the beauty of the Springtime
Tells the joy at Jesus' birth. (Refrain)

Glorious Queen, look down in kindness,

While before your throne we stand;
Bring God's blessing to your children;
Watch our home and guard our land. (Refrain)

Queen of heaven, while creation

Speaks the grandeur of God's love,
Mold our hearts to seek his glory,
Till we reach our homes above. (Refrain)

Salve Regina
Salve Regina mater miseri cordiae, vita, dulcedo et spes nostra salve
Ad te clamamus, exsules filii Hevae
Ad te suspiramis gementes et flentes in hac lacrimarum valle
Eia ergo advocata nostra, illos tuos miseri cordes oculos ad nos converte
Et Jesum benedictum fructum ventris tui nobis post hoc exsilium
ostende
O clemens, o pia, o dulcis virgo Maria.

Ave Maria
Ave Maria, gratia plena,
Dominus tecum.
Benedicta tu in mulieribus,
et benedictus fructus ventris tui,
Iesus.
Sancta Maria, Mater Dei,
ora pro nobis peccatoribus,
nunc et in hora mortis nostrae.
Ave Maria, gratia plena,
Dominus tecum.
Benedicta tu in mulieribus,
et benedictus fructus ventris tui,
Iesus.
Amen.

MOTHER OF CHRIST
Mother of Christ, mother of Christ
What shall I ask of thee?
I do not sigh for the wealth of earth
For the joys that fade and flee
But, mother of Christ, mother of Christ,
This do I long to see,
The bliss untold which your arms enfold
The treasure upon your knee.

Mother of Christ, mother of Christ,

I toss on a stormy sea,
Oh, lift your child as a beacon light
To the port where I fain would be.
And, mother of Christ, mother of Christ
This do I ask of thee
When the voyage is o'er, o stand on the shore
And show him at last to me.