The Most Holy Rosary
Excerpt on The History of The Rosary From The Book Rosaries Compiled For Use by The English Church pg. 13-19
The Anglo- Saxon word “bead”means a prayer , ( from beden , to pray , ) and the signification was gradually transferred to the knobs upon the prayer - belts ; and thence , when the pilgrims returning from Palestine had introduced the Chaplet of seeds or stones , to the round balls strung upon a thread . In the Greek Church , the substitution of beads for knots or knobs was probably at the same period . With them the Chaplet is used to count the number of prostrations , as well as the number of prayers ; and the lesser and greater prostrations are marked by the lesser and greater beads . At the present day , in Russia , the use of the Rosary is almost entirely confined to the convents , its use among secular people being very rare . It has been the custom to attribute the origin of the Rosary to S. Dominic , to whom it is said to have been specially revealed by the Blessed Virgin Mary . This saint was born in Spain , A.D. 1170 ; and it is reported that , while he was yet a child , the Blessed Virgin appeared to him , and taught him the devotion of the Rosary , which soon became one of the sacred objects of his life .
He established the society of the Rosary , and continued unto the end of his life to preach its institution in all the places where he passed , as being the most efficacious means of counteracting heresy . The society of the Rosary was divided into two classes , called the societies of the Common , and of the Perpetual Rosary . The former was in the nature of a guild , and probably differed from the latter , as the Tertiary Order of Franciscans from the Friars Regular , or Minnims . The brethren of the Common Rosary were required to recite the Rosary of Fifteen Decades weekly , and to confess ; and received the Blessed Sacrament on the first Sunday in every month.
The society of the Perpetual Rosary followed a stricter rule , and , in some one of its brethren , kept up an unintermitting recital of the Rosary . The Rosary of S. Dominic was said upon a Chaplet , consisting of one hundred and fifty lesser beads , divided by larger beads into fifteen decades , or divisions of ten beads . However , the common chaplet of five decades is equally available for the Rosary of S. Dominic , since the whole forms three divisions of Five Mysteries each . Now it is evident , from what we have said above , that prayer - belts and chaplets of one hundred and fifty beads were known before the time of S. Dominic ; and that the number was adopted from that of the Psalms , which were formerly recited daily by devout persons . All that S. Dominic did was to affix certain meditations to the Rosary , and thus to increase its value , by making it a prayer by way of meditation on the mysteries of Redemption .
He divided it into three parts , each consisting of five decades of beads ; and to each part he affixed a period of mysteries , and to each decade a particular event . They are called the Five Joyful , the Five Sorrowful , and the Five Glorious , Mysteries . The Five Joyful Mysteries are those of the Incar- nation ; namely , -The Annunciation , the Visitation , the Nativity , the Presentation of CHRIST in the Temple , and the Finding of the Child JESUS among the Doctors in Je- rusalem . The Five Sorrowful Mysteries relate to the Crucifixion , and consist in , - The Bloody Sweat , the Scourging , the Crowning with Thorns , the Bearing of the Cross , and the Crucifixion . The Five Glorious Mysteries , being those of the Re- surrection and its consequences , were , - The Resurrection , the Ascension , the De- scent of the HOLY GHOST ; the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin , and her Coronation . These two concluding Apocryphal Mysteries , form no unapt symbolism of the Risen Life in CHRIST , and the final triumphs of His Church .
The Rosary has , since the days of S. Dominic been adapted to various sacred medi- tations , and rosaries of various numbers of beads have been constructed . Those of fifty beads are frequently applied to the Five Wounds of our Blessed LORD upon the cross while rosaries of seventy beads are used to recall the seven last words uttered upon the Cross , or the seven sheddings of His Blood . There are also rosaries of forty- nine beads , arranged in sevens instead of decades , and which are applied to the seven dolours and the seven joys of S. Mary . There is a Rosary of twenty - five or thirty beads , divided into semi - decades ; but all this is a matter of choice ; for the variety , both of the instrument and of the meditations , is endless as the cravings of the worshipper .
In Italy , and other parts of the Continent , the Rosary , which commenced as a help to private devotion , has grown into a public worship , and forms a sort of popular substi- tute for the canonical services of the Church , which are almost entirely disused as far as the laity are concerned . It is with feelings of some surprise and disappointment that an English Churchman first witnesses the use to which this modern adaptation of the Rosary is put in an Italian Church , where a crowd of wor- shippers join with the Priest in going through the Rosary of S. Dominic , alter- nating the salutation and prayer of the Ave , and dividing the petitions of the Pater Noster . This , together with the Benediction and Litany of Loretto , forms the whole of the evening office in a vast proportion of the Italian Churches .
The use of the Rosary was , in a great degree , discontinued at the time of the Reformation , but probably not entirely ob- literated until the times of the Puritans ; for we find instances of its continuance among the peasantry in the time of Queen Elizabeth . It is possible that the Rosary may have become popularly identified with undue adoration of our Blessed Lady , or that ignorance may have attached a super- stitious value to the instrument itself ; and that for these reasons , as well as to preserve intact the Canonical Offices of the Church , the Reformers may have conceived a violent hos- tility to its use . But now that these dangers no longer exist among us , we may claim our full Christian liberty , in order to use in private a species of devotion which has been found so beneficial , for the sake of fixing the heart in meditation upon the Crucified , while the soul is absorbed in prayer to Him . For those leading a religious life , or for others , in sickness , or watching , or travel- ling , or at any time when the mind is unoccupied , or weary with anxiety or care , the Rosary affords a great help .
Any one who has tried it knows how greatly it assists the mind in fixing itself in prayer , —a habit so difficult to most at all times , and most especially at the times mentioned . The greatest saints since its introduction have had recourse to its aid . But the great argument in favour of the Rosary , is that it promotes prayer by way of Meditation on the Crucified , and upon the Mysteries of the Gospel ……..The Rosary is constructed upon a profound knowledge of human nature , since it engages the bodily senses in a sufficient occupation to prevent distraction , while it absorbs the mind in the contemplation of The Crucified .
Excerpt From Our Lady’s Rosary by Rev. Frs. Charles J. Callan, O.P., and John A. McHugh, O. P., (New York: P. J. Kenedy & Sons, 1939)
"Blessed is the man who hears me and watches daily at my gate. He who finds me shall find life, and shall draw salvation from the Lord." ~ Mass of the Rosary (Proverbs 8:34).
These words of Scripture apply well to the daily Rosary and its benefits to all who use it. In the morning and the evening, during the hours of the day and of the night, in every daily need, the Rosary is at hand as a refuge and strength. St. Bernard says of Mary: "If you are disturbed, or confused, or terrified, think of Mary. In dangers, in difficulties, in doubts, think on Mary, call on Mary. Let her name be on your lips, let her love be in your heart. And that you may deserve her help, do not fail to follow her example. If you follow her, you will not go astray; if you pray to her, you will not despair, if you think on her, you will not wander. She will hold you up, that you may not fall; she will protect you, that you may not fear; she will lead you, that you may not weaken.”
How to Pray The Rosary
Opening prayers
Holding the cross, say:
Sign of the Cross
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Still holding the cross, say:
Apostle’s Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth;
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again.
He ascended into heaven,
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
On the large bead say:
Lord’s Prayer (Pater Noster)
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. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
On the three small beads say, meditating on Faith, Hope, and Love:
Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou amongst 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. Amen.
On the chain say:
Lesser Doxology
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Saying the chaplet for the Mysteries
For each decade of beads:
Start each decade by naming the Mystery on which you will be meditating.
On each large bead, say:
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. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
On each of the ten small beads, say:
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou amongst 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. Amen.
On the chain say:
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.
The Mysteries of the Rosary In Scripture
These are arranged in three groups of five. The Scripture passage may be read before the Our Father of the decade and the Collect said after the Gloria Patri.
Joyful Mysteries of the Incarnation
Said on Mondays and Thursdays and on Sundays in Advent thru Transfiguration Sunday
1. The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)
26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” 29 But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.30 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. 33 He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 34 Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. 36 And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.
Collect Pour your grace into our hearts, O Lord, that we who have known the incarnation of your Son Jesus Christ, announced by an angel to the Virgin Mary, may by his cross and passion be brought to the glory of his resurrection; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
2. The Visitation (Luke 1:39-56)
39 In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, 40 where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit 42 and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? 44 For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. 45 And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.”
46 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord,47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. 52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.” 56 And Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.
Collect Father in heaven, by your grace the virgin mother of your incarnate Son was blessed in bearing him, but still more blessed in keeping your word: Grant us who honor the exaltation of her lowliness to follow the example of her devotion to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
3. The Nativity (Luke 2:4-20)
4 Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5 He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.
Collect Almighty God, you have given your only-begotten Son to take our nature upon him, and to be born of a pure virgin: Grant that we, who have been born again and made your children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the same Spirit be honor and glory, now and forever. Amen.
4. The Presentation in the Temple (Luke 2:22-35)
22 When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord”), 24 and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, 29 “Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; 30 for my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”
33 And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed 35 so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
Collect Almighty and everliving God, we humbly pray that, as your only-begotten Son was this day presented in the temple, so we may be presented to you with pure and clean hearts by Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
5. The Finding in the Temple (Luke 2:41-51)
41 Now every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival. 43 When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. 44 Assuming that he was in the group of travelers, they went a day’s journey. Then they started to look for him among their relatives and friends. 45 When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 When his parents saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, “Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety.”49 He said to them, “Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” 50 But they did not understand what he said to them. 51 Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart.
Collect Receive, Lord, the prayers of your people, and grant that we may see and know those thing which we ought to do, and have the grace and power to do them; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Sorrowful Mysteries of the Redemption
Said on Tuesdays and Fridays, and on Sundays from First Sunday of Lent thru Palm Sunday
1. The Agony in the Garden (Matthew 26:36-46)
36 Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be grieved and agitated. 38 Then he said to them, “I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake with me.” 39 And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want.” 40 Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, “So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? 41 Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42 Again he went away for the second time and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” 43 Again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44 So leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.”
Collect Jesus Christ, Good Shepherd who feeds and purifies your sheep with your own precious Blood: let your Agony in the Garden and all your Passion be comfort and salvation to us and to all sinners. Amen
2. The Scourging (Luke 23:13-16)
13 Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people,14 and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. 15 Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. 16 I will therefore have him flogged and release him.”
Collect Lord God, whose blessed Son our Savior gave his body to be whipped and his face to be spit upon: Give us grace to accept joyfully the sufferings of the present time, confident of the glory that shall be revealed; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
3. The Crowning with Thorns (John 19:2-3)
2 And the soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they dressed him in a purple robe. 3 They kept coming up to him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and striking him on the face.
Collect Jesus, you were crowned with thorns, blindfolded, buffeted, struck with a reed, clothed in derision with a purple garment, and in many other ways mocked and reviled: have mercy on us, Lord, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
4. Bearing the Cross (John 19:16-17)
6 Then he handed him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus; 17 and carrying the cross by himself, he went out to what is called The Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha.
Collect Almighty God, whose beloved Son willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross for out redemption: Give us courage to take up our cross and follow him; who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.
5. The Crucifixion (Mark 15:23-37)
23 And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh; but he did not take it. 24 And they crucified him, and divided his clothes among them, casting lots to decide what each should take.
25 It was nine o’clock in the morning when they crucified him. 26 The inscription of the charge against him read, “The King of the Jews.” 27 And with him they crucified two bandits, one on his right and one on his left. 29 Those who passed by derided him, shaking their heads and saying, “Aha! You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30 save yourself, and come down from the cross!” 31 In the same way the chief priests, along with the scribes, were also mocking him among themselves and saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. 32 Let the Messiah,the King of Israel, come down from the cross now, so that we may see and believe.” Those who were crucified with him also taunted him.
33 When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. 34 At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”35 When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, “Listen, he is calling for Elijah.” 36 And someone ran, filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink, saying, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.” 37 Then Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last.
Collect Almighty God, we pray you graciously to behold this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Glorious Mysteries of the Resurrection
Said on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and on Sundays in Easter thru Pentecost, and Christ the King
1. The Resurrection (Matthew 28:1-10)
28 After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2 And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.”8 So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”
Collect Almighty God, who through your only-begotten Son Jesus Christ overcame death and opened to us the gate of everlasting life: Grant that we, who celebrate with joy the day of the Lord's resurrection, may be raised from the death of sin by your life-giving Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
2. The Ascension (Acts 1:6-11)
6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9 When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 While he was going and they were gazing up toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood by them. 11 They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Collect Almighty God, whose blessed Son our Savior Jesus Christ ascended far above all heavens that he might fill all things: Mercifully give us faith to perceive that, according to his promise, he abides with his Church on earth, even to the end of the ages; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:13-14, 2:1-4)
13 When they had entered the city, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying, Peter, and John, and James, and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. 14 All these were constantly devoting themselves to prayer, together with certain women, including Mary the mother of Jesus, as well as his brothers.
2 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place.2 And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.
Collect Almighty God, you opened the way of eternal life to every race and nation by the promised gift of your Holy Spirit: Shed abroad this gift throughout the world by the preaching of the Gospel, that it may reach to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
4. The Assumption (Revelation 7:2-12)
2 I saw another angel ascending from the rising of the sun, having the seal of the living God, and he called with a loud voice to the four angels who had been given power to damage earth and sea, 3 saying, “Do not damage the earth or the sea or the trees, until we have marked the servants of our God with a seal on their foreheads.”
4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed, one hundred forty-four thousand, sealed out of every tribe of the people of Israel.
9 After this I looked, and there was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, robed in white, with palm branches in their hands. 10 They cried out in a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb!” 11 And all the angels stood around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12 singing, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom
and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.
Collect Almighty God, you have knit together your elect in one communion and fellowship in the mystical body of your Son Christ our Lord: Give us grace so to follow your blessed saints in all virtuous and godly living, that we may come to those ineffable joys that you have prepared for those who truly love you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
5. The Coronation (Revelation 4:1-11)
4 After this I looked, and there in heaven a door stood open! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” 2 At once I was in the spirit, and there in heaven stood a throne, with one seated on the throne!3 And the one seated there looks like jasper and carnelian, and around the throne is a rainbow that looks like an emerald. 4 Around the throne are twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones are twenty-four elders, dressed in white robes, with golden crowns on their heads. 5 Coming from the throne are flashes of lightning, and rumblings and peals of thunder, and in front of the throne burn seven flaming torches, which are the seven spirits of God; 6 and in front of the throne there is something like a sea of glass, like crystal.
Around the throne, and on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind: 7 the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with a face like a human face, and the fourth living creature like a flying eagle. 8 And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and inside. Day and night without ceasing they sing, “Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God the Almighty, who was and is and is to come.”
9 And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to the one who is seated on the throne, who lives forever and ever, 10 the twenty-four elders fall before the one who is seated on the throne and worship the one who lives forever and ever; they cast their crowns before the throne, singing, 11 “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”
Collect Almighty and everlasting God, you have given to us your servants grace, by the confession of a true faith, to acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity, and in the power of your divine Majesty to worship the Unity: Keep us steadfast in this faith and worship, and bring us at last to see you in your one and eternal glory, O Father; who with the Son and the Holy Spirit live and reign, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
The Mysteries of The Rosary From The St. Augustine Prayer Book
The Joyful Mysteries
The Annunciation
God's call waits for Mary's response; "Let it be to me according to your word."
The Visitation
In Elizabeth's companionship, Mary prepares for all that is to come and finds voice for her own joy. "My soul doth magnify the Lord...who hath lifted up the lowly and filled the hungry with good things."
The Nativity
An infant lies in Mary's arms, under Joseph's watchful care. Angels announce the glad news, shepherds rejoice, a star shines, and the Magi offer gifts.
The Presentation
Fulfilling the commandments, Mary and Joseph present the child and the appointed sacrifices. Anna and Simeon recognize that God is fulfilling the promise of the ages.
The Finding in the Temple
Again in Jerusalem, Jesus finds his work in the temple; Joseph and Mary return and search for him for three long, worrisome days. The family returns to Nazareth, and Jesus continues with them, growing in wisdom and stature.
The Sorrowful Mysteries
The Agony in The Garden
The weight of the world's sin and the full burden of human suffering looms before Jesus. Still, he is able to pray, "Not my will, but thine be done."
The Scourging
After mockery and abandonment, and while being treated with contempt, Jesus suffers a savage beating.
The Crowning with Thorns
Mockery weaves a crown and speaks truth; too often we are cruel and contemptuous, still Christ is the sovereign and Lord of all.
Jesus Takes up the Cross
Struggling under the weight of the cross, Jesus is forced through the city toward the place where he will be crucified.
The Crucifixion
While he prays for our forgiveness, Jesus is nailed to the cross and hung up to die. Offering his soul into the Father's hands, he proclaims, "It is finished." Mary, the other women, and the beloved disciple stand by the cross.”
The Glorious Mysteries
The Resurrection
Before anyone arrives at the tomb, the Lord walks out of death and darkness. Angels remain to “bring the news to the women, "He is risen and is gone before you.”
The Ascension
Standing with his friends, Christ sends them out to carry forward the gospel. He blesses them and is taken into the presence of God, there to appear on our behalf, intercessor and friend of sinners.
The Gift of the Holy Spirit
In signs of fire and wind, the Spirit falls on the disciples and on the Blessed Mother. In languages that all can understand, apostles preach the good news and the Church begins its life of witness, service, and worship.
The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Mary's life after the Day of Pentecost is hidden, but we can trust the One who called her to give birth and to provide a home for the Incarnate Word will give her life and a dwelling place, eternal in the heavens.
The Crown of Life
The dignity of human nature is fulfilled in the presence of God; in Mary we see human destiny fulfilled and completed; may we travel on our pilgrimage trusting that grace will raise us to stand in the eternal bliss of the beatific vision.”
Concluding prayers
The following Marian Antiphon concludes with a seasonal versicle, response, and collect.
Salve Regina
Hail, holy Queen, Mother of Mercy! our life, our sweetness, and our hope! To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve; to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley, of tears. Turn, then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us; and after this our exile show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus; O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.
At any time conclude with:
V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
O God, whose only-begotten Son, by his life, death, and resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, 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.
In Advent, conclude with:
V. The Angel of the Lord announced unto Mary,
R. And she conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Pour forth we beseech thee, O Lord, thy grace into our hearts, that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ, thy Son, was made known by the message of an angel, may, by his Passion and Cross, be brought to the glory of his resurrection; through the same Christ, our Lord. Amen.
From Christmas Day thru Candlemas Eve, conclude with:
V. The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.
R. O Mother of God, plead for us.
O God, who by the fruitful virginity of blessed Mary, hast given unto mankind the rewards of eternal salvation: grant, we beseech thee, that we may experience her intercession for us, by whom we deserved to receive the Author of life, our Lord Jesus Christ, thy Son. Amen.
From Candlemas (2 February) thru Good Friday, conclude with:
V. Allow me to praise thee, O sacred Virgin.
R. Against thine enemies give me strength.
Grant unto us, O merciful God, a defense against our weakness, that we who remember the holy Mother of God, by the help of her intercession, may rise from our iniquities, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
From Easter thru Pentecost, conclude with:
V. Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, alleluia.
R. For the Lord is risen indeed, alleluia.
O God, who through the resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ gave rejoicing to the world, grant, we pray, that through his Mother, the Virgin Mary, we may obtain the joy of everlasting life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
From Trinity Sunday thru Christ the King, conclude with:
V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Almighty, everlasting God, who by the cooperation of the Holy Spirit didst prepare the body and soul of the glorious Virgin-Mother Mary to become a dwelling-place meet for thy Son: grant that as we rejoice in her commemoration; so by her fervent intercession we may be delivered from present evils and from everlasting death. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
After the concluding collect, say,
V. May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.
R. And let light perpetual shine upon them.
May Almighty God bless us, Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The 15 Promises of The Most Holy Rosary
1. Those who faithfully serve me by the recitation of the Rosary shall receive signal graces.
2. I promise my special protection and the greatest graces to all those who shall recite the Rosary.
3. The Rosary shall be a powerful armor against hell. It will destroy vice, decrease sin, and defeat heresies.
4. The recitation of the Rosary will cause virtue and good works to flourish. It will obtain for souls the abundant mercy of God. It will withdraw the hearts of men from the love of the world and its vanities, and will lift them to the desire of eternal things. Oh, that souls would sanctify themselves by this means.
5. The soul which recommends itself to me by the recitation of the Rosary shall not perish.
6. Those who recite my Rosary devoutly, applying themselves to the consideration of its sacred mysteries, shall never be conquered by misfortune. In His justice, God will not chastise them; nor shall they perish by an unprovided death, i.e., be unprepared for heaven. Sinners shall convert. The just shall persevere in grace and become worthy of eternal life.
7. Those who have a true devotion to the Rosary shall not die without the sacraments of the Church.
8. Those who faithfully recite the Rosary shall have, during their life and at their death, the light of God and the plenitude of His graces. At the moment of death, they shall participate in the merits of the saints in paradise.
9. I shall deliver from purgatory those who have been devoted to the Rosary.
10. The faithful children of the Rosary shall merit a high degree of glory in heaven.
11. By the recitation of the Rosary you shall obtain all that you ask of me.
12. Those who propagate the holy Rosary shall be aided by me in their necessities.
13. I have obtained from my Divine Son that all the advocates of the Rosary shall have for intercessors the entire celestial court during their life and at the hour of their death.
14. All who recite the Rosary are my beloved children and the brothers and sisters of my only Son, Jesus Christ.
15. Devotion for my Rosary is a great sign of predestination.
