Faith grows when we ask questions. Join Deacon Elbert as we explore God, the Catholic faith, and what it means to follow Jesus in everyday life.
“Why do Catholics pray the Rosary?”
-Sandra, 14
This Week’s Question:
Hello Sandra,
I’m so glad you asked this question! Catholics pray the Rosary because it helps us grow closer to Jesus. Think about how you get to know someone: you spend time with them, listen to them, and learn about their life. The Rosary gives us time to do that with Jesus. As we pray, we reflect on important moments in his life, such as his birth, his death on the Cross, and his Resurrection. These moments are called “mysteries.” That doesn’t mean they are puzzles to solve, but truths of our faith that we can keep exploring and understanding more deeply.
You might wonder, “If the Rosary is about Jesus, why do we say so many Hail Marys?” That’s a good question, too! Mary is his mother, and her life always points us toward him. The first part of the Hail Mary recalls the greetings she received from the angel Gabriel and her relative Elizabeth in the Bible. The second part asks Mary to pray for us. We do not worship Mary; worship belongs to God alone. Just as you might ask a friend or family member to pray for you, we ask Mary to pray for us. Those in heaven are alive in Christ, and we believe they can pray for us, too.
The repeated prayers create a steady rhythm that helps us reflect on Jesus, while the beads help us keep our place. Each group of ten Hail Marys is called a “decade.” We pray an Our Father before those ten prayers and a Glory Be afterward. During each decade, we think about one mystery. For example, when reflecting on Jesus carrying his Cross, you might ask him for strength to face something difficult at school or to help someone who is struggling. The goal is more than finishing the prayers; it is opening your heart to God.
Sandra, you don’t have to begin with the whole Rosary. Try one decade, choose a mystery, and pray for someone you love or something that is on your heart. If your mind wanders, don’t get discouraged. Gently bring your attention back to Jesus. Prayer takes practice, just like anything else we learn. With time, the Rosary can help you learn his story, find peace in his presence, and follow his example. We pray with Mary so that we can grow closer to her Son.
Your brother in Christ,
Deacon Elbert
What have you always wanted to ask?
Have you ever wondered why Catholics do certain things, what a Bible passage means, or how to live your faith at school, at work, or at home? Your questions are welcome here. You don’t need to know all the right words. Just ask what’s on your heart.
Children, teens, and adults are invited to submit questions. Whether you’re growing up Catholic, returning to the Church, or simply curious about the faith, let’s learn together. Your question might help someone else understand, too!
Selected questions may be answered on this page or in our parish bulletin.