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The Sorrowful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary focus on the Passion and suffering of Jesus Christ, leading to His death on the Cross. These mysteries invite us to meditate on the immense love and sacrifice of Jesus for the salvation of humanity. They are traditionally prayed on Tuesdays and Fridays, as well as during the season of Lent.

The Five Sorrowful Mysteries

1. The Agony in the Garden (Luke 22:39-46)

Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane, deeply sorrowful and anguished as He prepares to take upon Himself the sins of the world. Despite His suffering, He submits fully to the Father’s will, saying, “Not my will, but yours be done.”

Virtue: Obedience and surrender to God’s will.

2. The Scourging at the Pillar (John 19:1)

Jesus is tied to a pillar and cruelly scourged by soldiers, enduring physical torment for our sins.

Virtue: Purity and mortification.

3. The Crowning with Thorns (Matthew 27:27-31)

The soldiers mock Jesus, placing a crown of thorns on His head, a reed in His hand, and a scarlet robe on His shoulders, ridiculing Him as “King of the Jews.”

Virtue: Courage and humility in the face of ridicule.

4. The Carrying of the Cross (Luke 23:26-32)

Jesus carries His heavy Cross to Calvary, falling under its weight but rising again to fulfill His mission. Along the way, He encounters His sorrowful mother, the weeping women of Jerusalem, and Simon of Cyrene, who helps Him carry the Cross.

Virtue: Patience and perseverance in trials.

5. The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus (Luke 23:33-46)

Jesus is nailed to the Cross and dies after hours of agony, offering His life as the ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. His final words are an expression of love and surrender: “Father, into your hands, I commend my spirit.”

Virtue: Forgiveness, love, and self-sacrifice.

Purpose and Spiritual Fruits

The Sorrowful Mysteries help us meditate on the depth of Jesus’ love and the price of our redemption. By reflecting on His Passion, we are inspired to:

• Accept our crosses with patience and trust.

• Grow in compassion and love for others.

• Strengthen our resolve to resist sin and follow Christ’s example.

These mysteries draw us closer to Jesus in His suffering and remind us of the hope of salvation that His sacrifice brings.