The Mysteries of the Rosary center around the events of the life of Christ, and are divided into four sets of Mysteries: Joyful, Sorrowful, Glorious and most recently the Luminous, added by Saint John Paul II in 2002. The Scripture-based prayer begins with the
Apostles' Creed
which summarizes the great mysteries of the Catholic faith. The Our Father, which introduces each mystery, comes from the Gospels, as does the first part of the
Hail Mary
which includes the angel's words announcing Christ's birth and Elizabeth's greeting to Mary. The second part of the
was added by St. Pius V.
The gentle repetition of the words of the Rosary is meant to lead one into restful and contemplative prayer as we consider Mystery and enter into the secret place in our hearts where dwells the spirit of Christ.
The four volumes of
The Mysteries of the Rosary for Children
are designed to help the younger ones to participate in worship and adoration of the Savior.