Traditional Mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary

The Rosary is one of the most important and well-known prayers of the Catholic faith invites the faithful to meditate on key events in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ through the eyes of His Blessed Mother. Before Pope John Paul II introduced the Mysteries of Light in 2022, these reflections are organized into three sets of Mysteries: Joyful, Sorrowful, and Glorious. On this page, we explore these three traditional Mysteries, their meaning, and how they draw us closer to the life of Christ and the love of Mary.

Joyful Mysteries

Consisting of the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity of Our Lord, the Presentation, and the Finding of Jesus in the temple. The Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary are meant for us to meditate on the Childhood of our Lord Jesus Christ through the eyes of his mother, Mary. This mystery is traditionally said on Mondays, Thursdays and the Sundays of Christmas and Advent.

Sorrowful Mysteries

Consisting of the Annunciation, the Agony in the Garden, the Scourging at the Pillar, the Crowning of Thorns, the Carrying of the Cross, and the Crucifixion and Death of Our Lord Jesus Christ. The Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary are meant for us to meditate on the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ through the eyes of his mother, Mary. This mystery is traditionally said on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and the Sundays of Lent.

Glorious Mysteries

Consisting of the Resurrection, the Ascension of Our Lord into Heaven, the Descent of the Holy Spirit, the Assumption of Mary into Heaven and the Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. The Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary are meant for us to meditate on the Ressurection and Triumph of our Lord Jesus Christ against all sin through the eyes of his mother, Mary. This mystery is traditionally said on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and Sundays in Ordinary Time.