Saints LightThe Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary
The Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary are the Baptism of the Lord, the Wedding at Cana, the Proclamation of the Kingdom, the Transfiguration and the Institution of the Eucharist. They are prayed on Thursday.
For each mystery, read the Scripture, hold the meditation in mind, and pray one Our Father, ten Hail Marys and a Glory Be. See how to pray the Rosary for the opening and closing prayers.
1. The Baptism of the Lord
And behold a voice from heaven, saying: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Jesus, who has no sin, steps into the Jordan River to be baptized by John, standing in line with sinners. The heavens open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the Father declares Him His beloved Son. At your own baptism, God claimed you as His beloved child too. Before you have done anything, He is pleased that you exist. Let that truth be the ground you stand on today.
Intention. For the newly baptized, and for all preparing to enter the Church.
2. The Wedding at Cana
His mother saith to the waiters: Whatsoever he shall say to you, do ye.
At a village wedding the wine runs out, and Mary notices before anyone else. She brings the need to her Son and tells the servants to do whatever He says. Jesus turns water into the best wine, His first sign. Mary still notices what we lack and still points us to Him. Tell her what has run dry in your life, then listen for what He asks you to do.
Intention. For married couples, and for families who are struggling.
3. The Proclamation of the Kingdom
And saying: The time is accomplished, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent, and believe the gospel.
Jesus walks through Galilee announcing that the kingdom of God is near. He heals the sick, forgives sinners and calls ordinary people to follow Him. His first word is an invitation: turn around and believe the good news. That invitation is still open to you, every day and in every confession. What is one thing you need to turn away from, and one step toward Him you can take now?
Intention. For a good confession, and for all who are far from God's mercy.
4. The Transfiguration
And he was transfigured before them. And his face did shine as the sun: and his garments became white as snow.
On a high mountain, Peter, James and John see Jesus shining with divine glory, and they hear the Father say: listen to Him. For a moment the veil is lifted on who He really is. He gave them this glimpse to strengthen them for the cross ahead. God also gives you moments of light to carry you through the dark ones. Remember one of them now, and thank Him for it.
Intention. For the grace to listen to Jesus, and to grow in holiness.
5. The Institution of the Eucharist
And taking bread, he gave thanks, and brake; and gave to them, saying: This is my body, which is given for you. Do this for a commemoration of me.
At the Last Supper, Jesus takes bread and wine and gives His apostles His own Body and Blood. He found a way to stay with His Church until the end of time. Every Mass makes this gift present again, and every tabernacle holds Him. He wants to be that close to you. Plan your next visit to Him, at Mass or before the Blessed Sacrament.
Intention. For priests, and for a deeper love of Jesus in the Eucharist.
The other mysteries
- The Joyful Mysteries (Monday and Saturday)
- The Sorrowful Mysteries (Tuesday and Friday)
- The Glorious Mysteries (Wednesday and Sunday)
Pray these mysteries bead by bead
The Saints Light app guides you through each decade with the Scripture, the meditation and a sacred painting for every mystery. The Rosary is free in the app.
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