Rosary mysteries by day: the weekly schedule

Which mysteries do I pray on each day?

Find the weekday below and choose that set for a five-decade Rosary. If you are praying with a parish or a group, ask which mysteries they will use so you can follow the same sequence. [2]

The five Joyful Mysteries

These mysteries follow the early life of Jesus and Mary’s response to God. Use one scene for each decade. [1]

1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Nativity
4. The Presentation in the Temple
5. The Finding of Jesus in the Temple

The five Luminous Mysteries

The Luminous Mysteries invite reflection on Jesus’ public ministry, from his baptism to the Eucharist. [1]

1. The Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan
2. The Wedding at Cana
3. The Proclamation of the Kingdom and Call to Conversion
4. The Transfiguration
5. The Institution of the Eucharist

The five Sorrowful Mysteries

Follow the events of Jesus’ Passion. A Gospel scene can give you something concrete to hold in mind during a decade. [1]

1. The Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. The Crowning with Thorns
4. The Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion

The five Glorious Mysteries

These mysteries contemplate the Resurrection, the life of the Church, and Mary’s heavenly glory. [1]

1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption of Mary
5. The Coronation of Mary

What changes on Sundays in Advent and Lent?

The US bishops’ guide gives Joyful Mysteries as a Sunday custom during Advent and Sorrowful Mysteries during Lent, with Glorious Mysteries on other Sundays. Practices can vary between families and communities. Ask the leader when joining an unfamiliar group.

The weekly schedule can help you begin without spending your prayer time deciding what to choose. It also leaves room for the needs of the people praying. For example, a group gathered around a particular feast may choose mysteries suited to that celebration. [1]

Use the schedule for your next prayer

Pick the set, read the five names, and choose a simple intention. Before each decade, pause over its scene. If you would like to begin with Scripture, read the Annunciation in Luke 1:26–38 or the Wedding at Cana in John 2:1–11.

For the prayer order, opening prayers, and how the beads work, follow the full Rosary walkthrough. Keep this schedule beside it as a quick reference. If your attention wanders, the guide to praying with distractions offers a small way to return.