During October, we are reminded of the profound significance of the Rosary, culminating in the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on 7 October. The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary has its origins in a time when Europe faced grave threats. In 1569, Pope Pius V encouraged Christians to invoke Our Lady’s intercession through the Rosary, especially during periods of turmoil.

On 7 October 1571, during the Battle of Lepanto, the odds were against the Holy League, yet as they turned to prayer and clung to their faith, a miraculous shift allowed them to prevail against the Ottoman army. The Rosary became a powerful weapon of hope, liberating captives and preserving Christendom. Today, Our Lady remains a powerful intercessor for us, especially when we seek her protection through the Holy Rosary.

The Rosary is not just a tradition, but also as a powerful tool for spiritual growth. Integrating the Rosary into our daily routine deepens our relationship with Christ through faith and the sacraments. “The Rosary is a prayer both so humble and simple and theologically rich in Biblical content. I beg you to pray it” Pope Saint John Paul II. Through this repetitive, grounding practice, we immerse ourselves in the mysteries of Christ, allowing us to draw strength and comfort during difficult times.

As a College community, we came together to celebrate the month of the Rosary by participating in a ‘live’ Rosary. Students and staff collaborated to create a large rosary using balloons and then prayed the Rosary together in the presence of a statue of Our Lady. It was a beautiful witness to the college community of our devotion and faith in her intercession.

As we reflect during this month, let us encourage a devotion to the Rosary in our personal and family life.

Our Lady of the Rosary, pray for us!