What Is the Origin of the Catholic Rosary?
Mystery and legend surround the beginnings of the Catholic rosary, but it is one of the most widespread devotions of the Catholic Church. It is embraced by believers around the world.
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Use Among Faiths
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Using beads to keep count of prayers isn't just a Christian practice, nor is it new. Prayer beads are found among Hindu, Muslim and Buddhist faiths. Archaeological evidence suggests Christians used them as early as the second century A.D.
Development
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During the middle ages monks and nuns used knotted string, pebbles, berries or beads to keep count of prayers. Pilgrims and the military adopted the practice of wearing beads or cord to show membership in religious societies or orders.
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The Modern Rosary
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Preaching to a largely illiterate flock in the 12th century, St. Dominic taught the Lord's Prayer and a simple Bible passage to be recited on beads throughout the day: "Hail favored, one! The Lord is with you." (Luke 1:28).
Growth as a Devotion
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Popes and saints have expanded prayers and devotion to the rosary. In Fatima, Portugal in 1912, for example, Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children, encouraging them to pray the rosary.
The Rosary Today
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A full rosary is made up of 150 Hail Marys and 15 Our Father and Glory Be prayers. Most Catholics say one-third of this devotion, meditating on various "mysteries" or events in the life of Christ as they pray.
A Powerful Influence
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Catholics invoke the rosary for many reasons: to end wars, save sinners, or help with spiritual growth. In the words of Sister Lucia dos Santos, a Fatima visionary, "There is no problem, I tell you, no matter how difficult it is, that we cannot resolve by the prayer of the holy rosary."
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- Photo Credit Photo by Connie Clark
