Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore experiences and perceived effects of the Rosary on issues around health and well-being, as well as on spirituality and religiosity. A qualitative study was conducted interviewing ten Roman Catholic German adults who regularly practiced the Rosary prayer. As a result of using a tangible prayer cord and from the rhythmic repetition of prayers, the participants described experiencing stability, peace and a contemplative connection with the Divine, with Mary as a guide and mediator before God. Praying the Rosary was described as helpful in coping with critical life events and in fostering an attitude of acceptance, humbleness and devotion.
Highlights
Praying can be understood as ritualized communication with a transcendent counterpart
The Rosary as a Catholic Christian meditative prayer form has been used for many centuries
After ten Catholics praying the Rosary regularly were included in the study, we found saturation in most categories and stopped the recruitment process
Summary
Praying can be understood as ritualized communication with a transcendent counterpart. Prayers are said to possibly promote inner peace and contemplation; build community and a sense of belonging; and strengthen hope, faith and trust. It has been described as a potentially helpful resource for managing crises and illness (Baesler et al, 2011; Berner, 2005; Dein & Littlewood, 2007; Heiler, 1921; Zaleski & Zaleski, 2005). Alanus de Rupe (1428–1475) reduced this form to the 15-sentence version in use today (von Brockhusen, 1989). From this revision, the Rosary became a prayer for the common people. The first mystery is repeated in the first set of ten Hail Mary Prayers and interspersed with one Lord’s Prayer and is followed by the set of ten Hail Mary Prayers including the mystery and so on (Graber, 1976; Winston-Allen, 2005)
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