How to pray the Rosary step by step
Learn the sequence of the Rosary, choose a mystery, and turn a few minutes into contemplative prayer.
The Rosary is a contemplative prayer of repetition. The Hail Marys are not meant to fill time; they create a rhythm in which we remember the life of Jesus with Mary. If you are beginning, pray one decade slowly. You do not have to finish everything at once.
Basic sequence
Begin with the sign of the cross, the offering of the Rosary, the Apostles’ Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, three Hail Marys, and the Glory Be. Announce the first mystery and pray one Lord’s Prayer, ten Hail Marys, and the Glory Be. Repeat for the five mysteries and conclude with the Hail, Holy Queen.
During each decade, choose a Gospel scene and remain with it. When your mind wanders, return without guilt to the scene, your breathing, and the words of the prayer.