Why do Catholics say the Rosary?

Some people who are Christians, but not Catholics, might wonder why we say the Rosary?

When we pray the Rosary, we are thinking about the life of Jesus on earth. It's kind of like reading our Bibles, where we spend a little focused time thinking prayerfully about different aspects of the life of Jesus when he lived on earth. The repetition of the vocal prayers is comforting and allows us to slow down and feel, as well as think.

Praying the Rosary helps us remember that we're not alone or helpless. It helps takes us out of our own selfish wants and think of higher things. It helps us feel connected with Jesus and His Mother Mary. It helps us feel comforted and encouraged when we're sad or worried.

Here are a few things you might not know about the Rosary if you're not Catholic:

We aren't required to say it. We can say a little of it or a lot. Anyone can say it, Catholic or not. There were originally 15 "Mysteries" or events, each accompanied by an Our Father (the Lord's prayer) and 10 Hail Marys (hence, the word "decade").

Praying a Rosary often refers to praying 5 "decades": five events or "mysteries". And then praying with 5 different "decades" or stories another day. Some examples of a "mystery" or a "decade" are: the birth of Jesus, His crucifixion, and his resurrection from the dead.

But some people only say one decade at a time, rather than five, and that's helpful too.

Although there were 15 decades originally, there are now 20. The additional 5 are more about the life of the Church but still focus on the life of Jesus when He was on earth.

Certain days have been recommended for different "mysteries", but anyone can pray any of them at any time. Depending on what we are dealing with in our own lives, sometimes one mystery is more comforting or encouraging than another.