Which mysteries of the rosary to pray each day
Short answer: Monday and Saturday — Joyful. Tuesday and Friday — Sorrowful. Wednesday and Sunday — Glorious. Thursday — Luminous.
Joyful Mysteries (Monday, Saturday)
- The Annunciation (Luke 1:26–38)
- The Visitation (Luke 1:39–56)
- The Nativity (Luke 2:1–20)
- The Presentation in the Temple (Luke 2:22–38)
- The Finding in the Temple (Luke 2:41–52)
Luminous Mysteries (Thursday)
- The Baptism of the Lord (Matthew 3:13–17)
- The Wedding at Cana (John 2:1–12)
- The Proclamation of the Kingdom (Mark 1:14–15)
- The Transfiguration (Luke 9:28–36)
- The Institution of the Eucharist (Luke 22:14–20)
Sorrowful Mysteries (Tuesday, Friday)
- The Agony in the Garden (Luke 22:39–46)
- The Scourging at the Pillar (John 19:1)
- The Crowning with Thorns (Matthew 27:27–31)
- The Carrying of the Cross (John 19:16–17)
- The Crucifixion (Luke 23:33–46)
Glorious Mysteries (Wednesday, Sunday)
- The Resurrection (Mark 16:1–8)
- The Ascension (Acts 1:6–11)
- The Descent of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1–13)
- The Assumption of Mary
- The Coronation of Mary (Revelation 12:1)
How to meditate on a mystery
Before each decade, read the Scripture passage or a one-line summary, picture the scene, and ask for its fruit — humility for the Annunciation, patience for the Carrying of the Cross. Then let the ten Hail Marys carry that picture.
FAQ
Do I have to follow the days?
No. The weekday schedule is a custom, not a rule. You can pray any set on any day.
Why are there four sets instead of three?
Pope John Paul II added the Luminous Mysteries in 2002, which moved the Joyful Mysteries from Thursday to Saturday.
What about Sundays in Advent or Lent?
Some people pray the Joyful Mysteries on Sundays of Advent and Christmas and the Sorrowful on Sundays of Lent. Both customs are fine.