The Mysteries

The Joyful Mysteries

The coming of Jesus: from the angel's message to Mary, to the finding of the boy Jesus in the Temple. Traditionally prayed on Monday and Saturday.

Pray the Joyful Mysteries now
The Annunciation, a devotional painting

The First Joyful Mystery

The Annunciation

Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it done to me according to thy word. Luke 1:38

The angel Gabriel brings Mary God's invitation, and she answers with a trusting yes. Ask for the grace to say yes to God in the ordinary moments of your own day.

Fruit of the mystery: Humility

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The Visitation, a devotional painting

The Second Joyful Mystery

The Visitation

Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. Luke 1:42

Mary hurries over the hills to help her cousin Elizabeth, and the child in Elizabeth's womb leaps for joy. Think of someone who needs a visit, a call or a kind word from you.

Fruit of the mystery: Love of neighbour

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The Nativity, a devotional painting

The Third Joyful Mystery

The Nativity

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7

The Son of God is born in a stable, poor and small. Make room for him in your heart, and in the people who are left out.

Fruit of the mystery: Poverty of spirit

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The Presentation in the Temple, a devotional painting

The Fourth Joyful Mystery

The Presentation in the Temple

Because my eyes have seen thy salvation. Luke 2:30

Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus to the Temple, and old Simeon recognises the Saviour he has waited for all his life. Offer God your waiting and your faithfulness.

Fruit of the mystery: Obedience

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The Finding in the Temple, a devotional painting

The Fifth Joyful Mystery

The Finding in the Temple

How is it that you sought me? did you not know, that I must be about my father's business? Luke 2:49

After three anxious days Mary and Joseph find Jesus in his Father's house. Pray for anyone who has lost their way, that they may find him again.

Fruit of the mystery: Joy in finding Jesus

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The other mysteries