Back-to-School Rosary

Joyful Mysteries

First Mystery: The Annunciation.

The Angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and said: "Hail, Mary, the Lord is with thee. Mary
answers: Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done unto me according to your word." The
Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.

Meditation: This is a time of new beginnings. New hope and new life! Lord, as we approach the dawn of
a new school year, we pray for a spirit of full cooperation to give our "YES" to you. Help us to embrace
the unknowns, the academic and social challenges, and the expectations placed upon us. Give us a
faithful heart, just like Mary, our model. We know not what the future will bring and so we pray for
courage like Mary, to say: "Be it done unto me, according to your word! Help us to embrace this year
with a heart full of hope, and to be expectant as we anticipate the blessings to come.

Second Mystery: The Visitation.

Mary visits Elizabeth. Though long and arduous, the journey is joyous, for Mary bears with her the
Incarnate Word. At Mary's salutation, John the Baptist leaps in his mother's womb. Mary replies: "My
soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, and my spirit finds joy in God my Savior."

Mediation: We thank you God, for the gift of classmates who bring flavor and seasoning to the
classroom through their different personalities. We are reminded that each life is precious, each student
has a soul that is being formed and has a divine purpose. With an open heart, teach us to accept,
rejoice, support, and encourage our classmates. To greet each new day, our parents and teachers with a
sweet salutation. Teach us be like Mary as we proclaim the greatness of the Lord through our actions.

Third Mystery: The Nativity.

In the stillness of the night, the Savior is born in a cave, Mary remaining a Virgin. Jesus enters the world
in poverty to teach the lesson of detachment from earthly things. The angel announces to the
shepherds: "Today there is born to you in the town of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord."

Meditation: Father, you chose the humble and unlearned to first hear of the glory of your birth. Simple
shepherds in the field. You would identify yourself with shepherds all your lifeas our Good Shepherd.
In the 23rd Psalm you remind us that no matter where we go, you are with us. Stay close to us this year
in our struggles, and in our achievements. Remind us that wisdom does not necessarily come from
perfect grades or high test scores, but in fulfilling the potential you have put within us to grow. We pray
for those who struggle with learning differences and low self esteem. We pray for the millions around
the world who receive no formal education. You were born for us all, to save the world and set us
free from our sins. Be born in me again, each new school day. As I work hard and respect my teachers
and do my best, help me see that I am honoring you and climbing closer to you.

Fourth Mystery: The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple

God has revealed to Simeon in the temple, that he would not see death until he had seen the Messiah.
Recognizing the Child, he prays: "Now you can dismiss your servant in peace. You have fulfilled your
word."

Mediation: Simeon reminds us of the power of a life dedicated to God. We think of people we know
positions of influence in our life. Parents, teachers, pastors, and those we respect because of their faith
and wisdom. We ask a special blessing upon them, that by remaining faithful to their vocation, they will
enlighten us like Simeon did with Mary, and guide our hearts upward, thinking of heaven and inspiring
us to rise up and reach our fullest potential. We pray for their strength, courage, and grace during
difficult times with challenging students and overbearing parents. Give them patience, and faith like a
rocklike Simeon. We pray.

Fifth Mystery: The Finding of Jesus in the Temple

When Jesus is twelve years old, He goes with His parents to Jerusalem for the feast of the
Passover. After the feast of the Passover, Joseph and Mary unknowingly set out for Nazareth without
Jesus. At the end of the first day's journey they discover Jesus is missing. This loss causes grief and
anxiety beyond our understanding to the hearts of Mary and Joseph. On the third day, they find Jesus in
the Temple among the Doctors who were astonished at His wisdom. Upon being found, Jesus replied:
"Why did you search for me? Did you not know that I must be about my Father's business?"

Mediation: What a time of anxiety for Mary and Joseph! Yet, a moment of profound transition for Jesus,
as he begins to live out his mission as Teacher. But, it must've been hurtful for Mary and Joseph. In the
course of all classrooms and families, there are moments of difficulty, misunderstandings, adjustment
and transition. Jesus did not rebel. He was being obedient to his heavenly father, but even as he entered
his teenage years, this moment of hurt existed, even in the Holy Family. It is with that we pray for
healing. Among classmates, to forgive past wrongs. Among teachers and students, to start fresh. And
among families who are bound together in home, the Citadel of the Soul, a temple in and of itself. Help
us to forgive one another, love each other, and grow in wisdom. As we set out to do the work that is set
before us.