Updated:: Nov 7, 2018
Original:: Jan 28, 2008

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.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin on crucifix Begin on the crucifix by making the sign of the cross.
Step 2: Say Apostles' Creed Say the Apostles’ Creed, a profession of faith.
Step 3: On the first large bead ... On the first large bead, say an Our Father.
TIP: Rosary beads are actually optional. You can also use your fingers to keep track of where you are.
Step 4: On the next three beads ... On each of the next three smaller beads, say a Hail Mary.
Step 5: On the next large bead ... On the next large bead, say a Glory Be.
Step 6: Meditate on the first mystery Meditate on the first mystery. If you’re in a group, the leader will announce it first.
Step 7: Say an Our Father Say an Our Father.
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.
Step 9: On the next large bead ... On the next large bead, say a Glory Be.
Step 10: Meditate on the second mystery Meditate on the second mystery.
TIP: Deepen the experience by saying the prayers slowly and really reflecting on the mysteries.
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.
Step 12: After fifth decade ... Once you’ve completed the fifth decade, say the Prayer after the Rosary on the medallion.
Step 13: Make the Sign of the Cross Make the Sign of the Cross.
FACT: Prayer beads are used in Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.