Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

The order in which the Mysteries of the Rosary are prayed has raised questions among Catholics, particularly since the introduction of the Luminous Mysteries by St. Pope John Paul II in 2002. Some have observed that a chronological sequence—Joyful, Luminous, Sorrowful, Glorious—would more closely follow the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

In response to such inquiries, it is noted that St. Pope John Paul II addressed this topic in his Apostolic Letter, *Rosarium Virginis Mariae*. He explained the addition of the Luminous Mysteries and discussed their place within the broader context of the Rosary. In his letter, he presented the mysteries in a chronological order: Joyful, then Luminous, followed by Sorrowful and Glorious. This presentation supports a sequential understanding of Jesus’ birth, public ministry, suffering and death, and resurrection.

Despite this logical arrangement based on chronology, traditional practice influenced how these mysteries are distributed throughout the week. Before 2002, Catholics typically prayed as follows: Joyful Mysteries on Monday and Thursday; Sorrowful on Tuesday and Friday; Glorious on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday. The schedule was shaped by both theological considerations and practical reasons.

For example:

- The Sorrowful Mysteries are assigned to Fridays to commemorate Jesus’ Passion.

- The Glorious Mysteries fall on Sundays to honor the Resurrection.

- Saturdays also feature Glorious Mysteries in recognition of Mary’s role through her Assumption and Queenship.

When introducing a new set of mysteries—the Luminous—it was necessary to adjust this pattern without disrupting established traditions around Friday (the Passion), Saturday (Mary), or Sunday (Resurrection). Instead of assigning them to Saturday or replacing another day entirely dedicated to an existing set, Thursday became designated for praying the Luminous Mysteries after moving one Joyful day from Thursday to Saturday.

St. Pope John Paul II emphasized flexibility in personal devotion: “This indication is not intended to limit a rightful freedom in personal and community prayer, where account needs to be taken of spiritual and pastoral needs and of the occurrence of particular liturgical celebrations which might call for suitable adaptations. What is really important is that the Rosary should always be seen and experienced as a path of contemplation.”

This guidance allows individuals or communities some latitude if they find a different order more helpful for meditation while maintaining respect for established Church recommendations.

Father Jayke White serves as parochial vicar at St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Effingham.