The Saint Francis Seven-Decade Crown Rosary, also known as the Franciscan Crown Rosary or the Seraphic Rosary, is a beautiful and deeply spiritual devotion that honours the Seven Joys of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This unique rosary has seven decades instead of the traditional five, reflecting the Franciscan order's emphasis on the joyous mysteries of Mary's life. In this blog post, we will explore the history and significance of the Saint Francis Seven-Decade Crown Rosary, provide a detailed guide on how to pray it, and highlight its spiritual benefits.
History and Significance of the Saint Francis Seven-Decade Crown Rosary
Origins of the Franciscan Crown Rosary
The Franciscan Crown Rosary dates back to the 15th century and is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Franciscan Order. According to tradition, a young Franciscan novice named James of the Rosary received a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who encouraged him to honour her joys by praying a seven-decade rosary. Inspired by this vision, the Franciscan Order adopted the practice, and it has been a cherished devotion ever since.
The Seven Joys of Mary
The Seven Joys of Mary celebrated in this rosary are:
The Annunciation
The Visitation
The Nativity
The Adoration of the Magi
The Finding of Jesus in the Temple
The Resurrection
The Assumption and Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven
Each decade of the rosary is dedicated to one of these joyous events, reflecting on the joy and grace that Mary experienced throughout her life.
How to Pray the Saint Francis Seven-Decade Crown Rosary
Praying the Saint Francis Seven-Decade Crown Rosary involves a specific sequence of prayers and meditations. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you pray this beautiful devotion:
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin with the Sign of the Cross
Make the Sign of the Cross and say: "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
Opening Prayer
Recite the following opening prayer: "O God, come to my assistance. O Lord, make haste to help me. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen."
First Joy: The Annunciation
Announce the first joy: "The Annunciation."
Pray one Our Father and ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Annunciation, when the Angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive the Son of God.
Second Joy: The Visitation
Announce the second joy: "The Visitation."
Pray one Our Father and ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Visitation, when Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth, who was also miraculously pregnant.
Third Joy: The Nativity
Announce the third joy: "The Nativity."
Pray one Our Father and ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Nativity, when Mary gave birth to Jesus in Bethlehem.
Fourth Joy: The Adoration of the Magi
Announce the fourth joy: "The Adoration of the Magi."
Pray one Our Father and ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Adoration of the Magi, when the Wise Men visited Jesus and brought gifts.
Fifth Joy: The Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Announce the fifth joy: "The Finding of Jesus in the Temple."
Pray one Our Father and ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Finding of Jesus in the Temple, when Mary and Joseph found the young Jesus teaching in the temple.
Sixth Joy: The Resurrection
Announce the sixth joy: "The Resurrection."
Pray one Our Father and ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Resurrection, when Jesus rose from the dead on Easter Sunday.
Seventh Joy: The Assumption and Coronation
Announce the seventh joy: "The Assumption and Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven."
Pray one Our Father and ten Hail Marys while meditating on the Assumption and Coronation, when Mary was assumed into heaven and crowned as Queen of Heaven and Earth.
Concluding Prayers
After the seven decades, recite the following concluding prayers:
One Our Father and one Hail Mary in honor of the Guardian Angels.
One Our Father and one Hail Mary for the intentions of the Holy Father.
Closing Prayer
End with the following closing prayer:
"Hail, holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Amen."
Sign of the Cross
Conclude the Rosary by making the Sign of the Cross.
Spiritual Benefits of Praying the Saint Francis Seven-Decade Crown Rosary
Praying the Saint Francis Seven-Decade Crown Rosary offers numerous spiritual benefits. Here are some key advantages of incorporating this devotion into your prayer life:
Deepening Marian Devotion
This Rosary fosters a deeper devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by focusing on the joyful moments of her life. Meditating on these joys helps to cultivate a greater appreciation for Mary's role in salvation history and her maternal care for all believers.
Enhanced Spiritual Joy
Reflecting on the Seven Joys of Mary can bring a profound sense of spiritual joy and gratitude. It reminds us of the joyous aspects of our faith and encourages a positive outlook, even in difficult times.
Strengthened Faith
Regularly praying this Rosary strengthens faith by connecting believers to the joyful mysteries of Christ's life. It reinforces the central truths of the Incarnation, the Resurrection, and the promise of eternal life.
Spiritual Protection
The prayers and meditations of the Franciscan Crown Rosary invoke the protection and intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Many devotees find comfort and reassurance in her maternal care, especially during challenging times.
Community and Tradition
Praying this Rosary connects individuals to the rich traditions of the Franciscan Order and the broader Catholic community. It fosters a sense of belonging and continuity with the centuries-old practices of the Church.
The Saint Francis Seven-Decade Crown Rosary is a powerful devotion that offers a unique way to honour the Blessed Virgin Mary and reflect on the joyful mysteries of her life. By praying this Rosary, believers can deepen their Marian devotion, experience spiritual joy, strengthen their faith, and invoke the protection and intercession of the Mother of God. Whether you are seeking a new prayer practice or looking to enhance your existing devotions, the Franciscan Crown Rosary is a beautiful and enriching addition to your spiritual journey.
References
EWTN - How to Pray the Franciscan Crown Rosary
Catholic Online - Franciscan Crown Rosary
Franciscan Friars - The Seven Joys of Mary
USCCB - The Rosary
Dynamic Catholic - How to Pray the Rosary
Catholic Exchange - Praying the Franciscan Crown
コメント