The Traditional Rosary
The traditional rosary, also known as the Dominican rosary, is the most widely recognized and commonly used form of the rosary. It consists of a string of beads, typically made of wood or stone, with a crucifix at one end and a centerpiece at the other. The rosary is divided into five decades, each containing ten smaller beads. As the prayers are recited, the faithful move their fingers along the beads, meditating on the mysteries of the rosary.
The Franciscan Crown
The Franciscan Crown is a variation of the traditional rosary and is associated with the Franciscan Order. Instead of the traditional five decades, the Franciscan Crown has seven decades, each representing one of the Seven Joys of the Virgin Mary. These joys include the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity of Jesus, the Adoration of the Magi, the Finding of Jesus in the Temple, the Resurrection of Jesus, and the Assumption of Mary.
The Brigittine Rosary
Named after Saint Bridget of Sweden, the Brigittine Rosary is another variation of the traditional rosary. It consists of six decades, each containing ten beads, representing the Seven Sorrows of Mary. The first five decades represent the five wounds of Jesus during the Crucifixion, while the sixth decade represents the heartache and sorrow of Mary as she witnessed her son’s suffering. The Brigittine Rosary also includes a third set of seven Hail Mary beads, which are used to meditate on the Seven Sorrows of Mary.
The Servite Rosary
The Servite Rosary, also known as the Seven Joys of Mary, is a variation of the traditional rosary that focuses on the joys and sorrows of Mary. It consists of five decades, with each decade representing one of the Seven Joys of Mary. These joys include the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity of Jesus, the Adoration of the Magi, the Finding of Jesus in the Temple, the Resurrection of Jesus, and the Assumption of Mary. The Servite Rosary also includes a chapter of the Seven Sorrows of Mary, which consists of seven Hail Marys.
The Wedding Rosary
The Wedding Rosary, also known as the Lasso Rosary or the Lasso de Bodas, is a variation of the traditional rosary that is used in Catholic wedding ceremonies. It consists of a large loop of beads, often made of white satin or silk, which is placed around the shoulders of the bride and groom during the wedding ceremony. The Wedding Rosary is a symbol of the couple’s unity in marriage and their commitment to pray together as a couple. The loop is typically held by the couple’s parents or the officiant during the ceremony, and it is believed to bring blessings and protection to the newly married couple.
