Holding Mary's Hand This October

My dear parishioners,

October is a special month that the Church dedicates to the Holy Rosary. For me, the rosary has always been a source of immense comfort and strength, especially in busy or difficult times. It’s a simple, humble prayer—an invitation from our Blessed Mother to simply hold her hand as she walks us through the life of her Son, Jesus.

Sometimes, people think the Rosary is just a repetition of prayers to Mary. But at its heart, the Rosary is a deeply Christ-centered prayer. As we pray the Hail Marys, we aren't just speaking to her; we are asking her to pray with us as we contemplate the great mysteries of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. We are, in a sense, looking at the Gospel through the eyes of the person who knew and loved Him most.

I know that for many of us, myself included, praying the Rosary can be a struggle. Our minds wander, and we can get discouraged. But I want to encourage you: do not be afraid of your distractions. Simply turn your heart back to the mystery. If you find you don't have time for five decades, just pray one. A single, heartfelt decade prayed in the car or on a walk is a beautiful gift to God.

So, I want to personally invite you to join me in rediscovering this beautiful prayer during the month of October. If you're new to it, start simply. Take your beads, announce the First Joyful Mystery—The Annunciation—and pray one Our Father and ten Hail Marys while you picture that sacred moment in your heart. Let Mary guide you.

May our Blessed Mother draw our entire parish family closer to the heart of her Son this month. Know of my prayers for you all.

In Christ,

Fr. Ernest Attah