What Is a Catholic Rosary Service?

The rosary service is a Catholic tradition.

The rosary is a one of the Catholic traditions most familiar to non-Catholics. Lesser known is the rosary service, which is not often practiced but traditionally used at Catholic funerals.

The Rosary

Praying the rosary is a many-step process that includes the well-known prayers of the Apostles Creed, the Our Father (Lord's Prayer), the Hail Mary and the Glory Be. Some traditions also include the Fatima Prayer.

Rosary Service

A rosary service is a traditional Catholic funeral ritual usually held the night before the burial. Open to all, the family uses this time to receive visitors and pray the rosary. The ritual is sometimes held during the vigil service or wake.

Vigil Service/Wake

A vigil service, or wake, is usually held the night before burial and is a time for the grieving family to receive condolences and for all in attendance to share memories of the deceased. The service is typically held at a funeral home because it includes a viewing of the body.

References

• Boston Funeral Home Flowers
• Knights of Columbus: A Guide to Praying the Rosary