Little Prayer Stories
Mondays and Saturdays

Joyful Mysteries

The Joyful Mysteries are five moments from Jesus’ childhood, from the angel’s visit to Mary to finding the boy Jesus in the Temple. Catholics pray them on Mondays and Saturdays, and many families also pray them on Sundays in Advent and Christmas.

Pray these mysteries →

  1. Stained glass of the angel Gabriel greeting Mary, who kneels in prayer as the dove of the Holy Spirit shines above

    The Annunciation

    An angel visits Mary and tells her she will be the mother of Jesus. Mary says yes to God.

    Read it in Luke 1:26–38. Fruit of the mystery: Humility

  2. Stained glass of Mary and her cousin Elizabeth embracing on the steps of Elizabeth’s house

    The Visitation

    Mary hurries to visit her cousin Elizabeth to help her. They are both so happy that God is with them.

    Read it in Luke 1:39–56. Fruit of the mystery: Love of neighbor

  3. Stained glass of Mary and Joseph kneeling beside baby Jesus in the manger under the star of Bethlehem

    The Nativity

    Baby Jesus is born in a little stable in Bethlehem. Mary and Joseph hold Him, and the shepherds come to visit.

    Read it in Luke 2:1–20. Fruit of the mystery: Poverty of spirit

  4. Stained glass of Mary and Joseph presenting baby Jesus to Simeon in the Temple

    The Presentation in the Temple

    Mary and Joseph bring baby Jesus to the Temple to offer Him to God. Simeon and Anna are so happy to see Him.

    Read it in Luke 2:22–38. Fruit of the mystery: Obedience

  5. Stained glass of the boy Jesus sitting among the teachers in the Temple

    The Finding in the Temple

    Jesus is twelve and stays behind in the Temple. Mary and Joseph look for Him for three days and are very happy to find Him.

    Read it in Luke 2:41–52. Fruit of the mystery: Joy in finding Jesus

All the mysteries of the Rosary