How to Pray the Rosary

Make the Sign of the Cross

Hold the crucifix of the rosary and make the Sign of the Cross.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Pray the Apostles' Creed

While holding the crucifix, profess your faith with the Apostles' Creed.

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord...

Pray the Our Father

On the first large bead, pray the Our Father (Lord's Prayer).

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name...

Pray Three Hail Marys

On the next three beads, pray three Hail Marys for an increase in faith, hope, and charity.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee...

Pray the Glory Be

After the three Hail Marys, pray the Glory Be to honor the Holy Trinity.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit...

Announce the First Mystery

Announce the first mystery and take a moment to reflect on it. The mysteries depend on the day of the week.

Example: "The First Joyful Mystery: The Annunciation"

Pray the Our Father (Decade)

On the large bead before each decade, pray the Our Father.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name...

Pray Ten Hail Marys

On each of the ten small beads (called a "decade"), pray a Hail Mary while meditating on the mystery.

Hail Mary, full of grace...

Pray the Glory Be & Fatima Prayer

After the ten Hail Marys, pray the Glory Be, followed by the Fatima Prayer.

O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell...

Repeat for All Five Decades

Repeat steps 6-9 for each of the five mysteries. Each set of ten beads is one decade.

Pray the Hail Holy Queen

After completing all five decades, pray the Hail Holy Queen (Salve Regina).

Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope...

Conclude with the Sign of the Cross

Make the Sign of the Cross to conclude your Rosary.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.