Getting a rosary
You can pray the rosary with nothing in your hands, but a physical rosary makes it easier to keep your place.
What to look for
A standard rosary has five groups of ten small beads, called decades, each set off by a larger bead. The groups form a loop with a centerpiece, and a short tail leads down to a crucifix. That is the rosary drawn in the guide.
Kinds of rosaries
- Five-decade rosary. The usual choice, and the one most guides assume.
- Single-decade rosary. One decade on its own, small enough for a pocket. You go around it five times.
- Finger rosary. A ring or tiny loop that carries a single decade, easy to use anywhere.
- Cord rosary. Knots in place of beads. Quiet, durable, and simple to make yourself.
Materials
Wood, glass, stone, and metal are all common. No material is more correct than another, so pick what feels comfortable in your hand. If you plan to carry it every day, look for a sturdy cord or well-made links, since thin chains tend to break first.
Where to look
- Your parish. Many have a gift table, and a priest or parish office can often point you to one.
- Catholic bookstores and religious goods shops. Good for seeing and holding a rosary before you buy.
- Shrines, monasteries, and convents. Many sell rosaries made by the community, and your purchase supports them.
- Independent makers online. The widest choice. Read reviews and look closely at how the links or knots are secured.
- Make your own. Craft stores sell beads, cord, a crucifix, and a centerpiece, and a knotted cord rosary needs only cord.
Having it blessed
Catholics often ask a priest or deacon to bless a new rosary. It is a custom, not a requirement for praying with it.