Joyful Mysteries

I. The Archangel Gabriel announces to the Blessed Virgin Mary the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ and her mission to be the Mother of God. Mary accepts, declaring herself the handmaid of the Lord. Let us learn and ask for the virtue of humility (see Lk 1:26–38).

Subjects for meditation:

Jesus in the Rosary: The Messiah.
Mary in the Rosary: The privileges of Mary.
Fruit: Humility.
Intention: For those who do not know Christ.
Words: “Hail, full of grace.”
Eucharist: Real Presence.
Pure love: Affective charity.

 

II. The Blessed Virgin Mary hastens with concern to visit and serve St. Elizabeth. Let us ask for Mary’s love toward our neighbor (see Lk 1:39–40).

Subjects for meditation:

Jesus in the Rosary: Jesus is the Life.
Mary in the Rosary: Mary, Mediatrix of Grace.
Fruit: Love of neighbor.

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Intention: For expectant mothers.
Words: “Blessed is she who has believed.”
Eucharist: Eucharistic adoration.
Pure love: Charity in action.

 

III. Born in the stable of Bethlehem, Jesus is laid in a manger amid utter poverty. Let us esteem the virtue of poverty and ask it of Jesus and Mary (see Lk 2:6–7).

Subjects for meditation:

Jesus in the Rosary: Jesus is the Way.
Mary in the Rosary: Mary is the Mother of God.
Fruit: Poverty.
Intention: For children.
Words: “And peace on earth to men of good will.”
Eucharist: Holy Communion.
Pure love: Charity is nourished by the Holy Eucharist.

 

IV. Although not duty bound, Mary presents Jesus in the Temple and perfectly fulfills what was prescribed for purification. Let us consider and ask for the obedience of the Blessed Virgin (see Lk 2:22–39).

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Subjects for meditation:

Jesus in the Rosary: Jesus is the Eternal Priest.
Mary in the Rosary: Mary is the model of all virtues.
Fruit: Obedience.
Intention: For vocations to consecrated life.
Words: “Behold, he is destined to be the downfall and the rise of many.”
Eucharist: Preparation for Communion.
Pure love: Charity is kindled in meditation.

V. As an adolescent, Jesus remains for three days among the doctors in the Temple, listening to them and asking them questions on matters regarding his Father. Let us ask the grace to understand and live our vocation (see Lk 2:41–51).

Subjects for meditation:

Jesus in the Rosary: Jesus-Truth is Teacher.
Mary in the Rosary: The heart of Mary.
Fruit: Discernment.
Intention: For parents and teachers.
Words: “I must be about my Father’s business.”
Eucharist: Thanksgiving for Communion.
Pure love: Charity in families.

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