The Mysteries

When Catholics pray the Rosary, they meditate on important events in the lives of Jesus Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary. These events are called mysteries because they help believers reflect on the deeper meaning of the Gospel and the plan of salvation.

There are four groups of mysteries in the Rosary. Each group focuses on a different part of Christ’s life and mission. While praying each decade of the Rosary, Catholics think about one mystery and ask God to help them grow in faith.

The Joyful Mysteries

The Joyful Mysteries focus on the early life of Jesus and the joy surrounding His coming into the world.

1. The Annunciation
   
   

2. The Visitation
   
   

3. The Nativity
   
   

4. The Presentation in the Temple
   
   

5. The Finding of Jesus in the Temple
   
   

The Sorrowful Mysteries

The Sorrowful Mysteries focus on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus before His death on the cross.

1. The Agony in the Garden
   
   

2. The Scourging at the Pillar
   
   

3. The Crowning with Thorns
   
   

4. The Carrying of the Cross
   
   

5. The Crucifixion
   
   

The Glorious Mysteries

The Glorious Mysteries celebrate the victory of Jesus over death and the glory of heaven.

1. The Resurrection
   
   

2. The Ascension
   
   

3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit
   
   

4. The Assumption of Mary
   
   

5. The Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven
   
   

The Luminous Mysteries

The Luminous Mysteries reflect on important moments during the public ministry of Jesus.

1. The Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan
   
   

2. The Wedding at Cana
   
   

3. The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God
   
   

4. The Transfiguration
   
   

5. The Institution of the Eucharist
   
   

By meditating on these mysteries while praying the Rosary, Catholics grow closer to Christ and better understand the events of the Gospel.