PASSAGES

     The Biblical Rosary places us in meditation with Jesus and his Mother on various aspects of their lives. Praying the Rosary helps us to reflect briefly on the principal events of our redemption and the mysteries of salvation. This meditation can bring a positive effect on a person's daily life by encouraging humility, charity, obedience, patience, and forgiveness then lead to a  conversion of heart by increasing one's faith, hope and charity. THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES:

     ANNUNCIATION: The angel Gabriel went to Mary and told her that she would bear the Son of God who would bring redemption to the world. (Luke 1:26–38). Meditate that every conceived child be treasured and protected as a wondrous gift of God, that we imitate Mary by saying "Yes" to God, and that we trust in whatever God's plan is. 

     VISITATION: Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth who was also pregnant. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant (John the Baptist) leaped in her womb.  Mary then stayed with Elizabeth for three months helping her cousin who was late in pregnancy. (Luke 1:39-56).  Meditate on the charitable act of being present to someone in need. Do you know of someone who needs your help?

     NATIVITY: Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Jesus, the Son of God, came   into the world in the most humble and lowly of places, a stable amongst livestock and laid inamnger. (Matthew 2:1-16; Luke 2:1-20). Jesus is the fulfillment of God's promise. Meditate on poverty in spirit and humility. 

    PRESENTATION: Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to consecrate him to the Lord. There, a devout and righteous man named Simeon said, "Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel." (Luke 2:25-32).  Meditate on being obedient to God's commands. God does not force us to know, love and serve Him; we must do it by cooperating with His grace, which is His help and enlightenment, just as Mary and Joseph did consecrating Jesus. 

     FINDING IN THE TEMPLE: After a trip to Jerusalem then returning home, Mary and Joseph realized that Jesus was accidentally left behind. Returning, they found Jesus in the Temple, listening to the teachers and asking questions. All who heard Jesus were astounded at his understanding and his answers. (Luke 2:41-50). Meditate on our calling to follow Christ, on taking up our own crosses in imitation of Him, and on giving God the Father what is justly due to Him. Like Christ, we must be about the Father's business in our own lives. 

     CONCLUSION: In cooperation with the Rosary, many have been converted and intentions, thought impossible, answered. In various apparitions, Mary has appeared holding a Rosary and has commanded that we pray the Rosary. Do your own research. Please search: "Catholic Rosary" for more information. "Viva Christo Rey!"