Is the family Rosary really possible?

The Rosary is so…. short?

Let’s admit it. “Short” is not the first word that comes to mind when we hear the word “Rosary.” However, the Rosary truly is short. It compresses an entire day of prayer (the Liturgy of the Hours) into a few minutes--perfect for families, students and working people. And children.

Why is the Rosary so powerful?

With the Rosary, we meditate on Jesus’ life, death and Resurrection, with Mary and Scripture as our guides.

Blessed Mary modeled for us how to meditate on Scripture: “But Mary treasured all these words, and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19) When we pray the Rosary, the Blessed Mother helps us treasure the words and actions of Jesus in our hearts, so He can fully work His salvation in us.

Why is it great for kids?

It’s perfect because kids can grow into it. They start by learning basic prayers. Then, they learn the Bible story to go along with each decade. Then, they start leading the prayers. As children mature, they will begin to meditate more deeply on the meaning of Scripture, and take these Spirit-inspired insights and apply them personally.

How can I make the Rosary easier for me and my kids?

1. Break it up into manageable parts. Say 1 decade to start (1 Our Father + 10 Hail Marys + 1 Glory Be). Here's a list of all the decades.
2. Don’t expect the littlest ones to pay attention. Give them quiet faith-based toys to play with and help them learn how to be quiet while others pray. Family Rosary time is great way to “practice” how to behave in church. Also, toddlers learn a whole lot about prayer by watching adults do it.
3. Make it special. Sing a favorite hymn. Light a candle. Write down intentions. Give each child a responsibility. Choose a child to lead each decade. Include hugs and snuggles.
4. Announce the mystery and read the corresponding Scripture. Or, quickly explain the meaning of the decade. Try a Scripture Rosary for kids (there are several in the marketplace), which are illustrated for preschoolers.
5. Ask the children what they want to pray for. Offer the decade for that intention.
6. Make a rosary with your child, buy a special rosary for each child, or have a bowl of rosaries so each can pick a favorite. You can find lots of Rosary craft ideas on Catholic Icing. Many Catholic resellers and Etsy shops carry baby teether rosaries and toddler rosaries.

Praying the Rosary as a family may seem daunting at first. But we promise that if you keep it manageable and stick with it, it will become a treasured, peace-filled time, and a fountain of grace in your family.

Louie the Lamb (Catholic 3 Prayer) comforts babies by reciting the Our Father, the Hail Mary and the Glory Be -- the prayers of the Rosary.