Mysteries of Light
Meditations on the Mysteries of the Rosary with John Paul II
Author: Pope John Paul II
In October 2002, Pope John Paul II updated the prayers of the rosary for the first time in five centuries when he issued his Apostolic Letter "Rosarium Virginis Mariae." Designating this the Year of the Rosary (October 2002 - October 2003), Pope John Paul II added a new set of "mysteries" - events in the lives of Jesus for worshippers to reflect on the mystery of salvation and the role of Mary as intercessor. He has also invited the faithful to pray the rosary for peace.
The rosary was standardized in the 16th century and called for contemplating on the fifteen mysteries, clustered in groups of five: the Joyful Mysteries of Christ's birth, the Sorrowful Mysteries of his crucifixion, and the Glorious Mysteries of his resurrection.
Different mysteries are contemplated on each day, with the Glorious Mysteries repeated on Sundays. Now, on Thursday, the Pope asks Catholics to reflect on five Mysteries of Light: Christ's baptism, his first miracle at Cana, his proclaiming the coming of the Kingdom of God, his Transfiguration in front of three disciples, and the institution of the Eucharist as a sacrament.
Mysteries of Light offers simple meditations written by Pope John Paul II on each of the 20 mysteries of the rosary, along with stunning 25 color illustrations (icons) woven throughout the text.