How to Pray the Rosary
Praying the Rosary is one of the Catholic Church’s most popular devotions and enduring images. You may want to dedicate the Rosary to a specific intention, like a sick friend or relative.
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You Will Need
- At least 20 minutes without interruptions
- Rosary beads (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Begin on crucifix
Begin on the crucifix by making the sign of the cross.
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Step 2
Say Apostles' Creed
Say the Apostles’ Creed, a profession of faith.
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Step 3
On the first large bead ...
On the first large bead, say an Our Father.
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Rosary beads are actually optional. You can also use your fingers to keep track of where you are.
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Step 4
On the next three beads ...
On each of the next three smaller beads, say a Hail Mary.
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Step 5
On the next large bead ...
On the next large bead, say a Glory Be.
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Step 6
Meditate on the first mystery
Meditate on the first mystery. If you’re in a group, the leader will announce it first.
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Step 7
Say an Our Father
Say an Our Father.
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Step 8
Move clockwise
Move clockwise to the next decade, or group of ten beads. Say a Hail Mary for each of the next 10 smaller beads.
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Step 9
On the next large bead ...
On the next large bead, say a Glory Be.
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Step 10
Meditate on the second mystery
Meditate on the second mystery.
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Deepen the experience by saying the prayers slowly and really reflecting on the mysteries.
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Step 11
Repeat the cycle
Repeat the cycle—saying an Our Father, followed by a Hail Mary for each of the 10 smaller beads, followed by a Glory Be, followed by the next mystery—though the fifth decade.
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Step 12
After fifth decade ...
Once you’ve completed the fifth decade, say the Prayer after the Rosary on the medallion.
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Step 13
Make the Sign of the Cross
Make the Sign of the Cross.
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Prayer beads are used in Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
