The first Joyful Mystery: The Annunciation
The angel Gabriel greets Mary in Nazareth. She is troubled, she asks how it can be, and then she says yes.
- Read: Luke 1:26-38
- Fruit of the mystery: Humility
- Pray this decade for: someone facing news that changes their life
The second Joyful Mystery: The Visitation
Already expecting, Mary travels to the hill country and stays three months with her cousin Elizabeth.
- Read: Luke 1:39-56
- Fruit of the mystery: Love of neighbor
- Pray this decade for: a woman who is expecting a baby
The third Joyful Mystery: The Nativity
There is no room for them at the inn. Jesus is born and laid in a manger, and shepherds are the first to come.
- Read: Luke 2:1-20
- Fruit of the mystery: Poverty in spirit
- Pray this decade for: families who are poor or far from home
The fourth Joyful Mystery: The Presentation in the Temple
Mary and Joseph bring the baby to the Temple. Old Simeon takes Him in his arms and thanks God.
- Read: Luke 2:22-38
- Fruit of the mystery: Obedience
- Pray this decade for: parents raising children in faith
The fifth Joyful Mystery: The Finding in the Temple
At twelve, Jesus stays behind in Jerusalem. After three days of searching, His parents find Him in the Temple.
- Read: Luke 2:41-52
- Fruit of the mystery: Joy in finding Jesus
- Pray this decade for: anyone searching for God, or a child who has drifted away
When are the Joyful Mysteries prayed?
On Monday and Saturday. Each day of the week has its own set: Joyful on Monday and Saturday, Sorrowful on Tuesday and Friday, Glorious on Wednesday and Sunday, and Luminous on Thursday. You may pray any set on any day.
How to pray the Joyful Mysteries
Name each mystery, then pray one Our Father, ten Hail Marys and a Glory Be while you think about the scene. New to the rosary? Read how to pray the rosary, step by step.
The other mysteries: Luminous Mysteries, Sorrowful Mysteries, Glorious Mysteries.