The rosary, a Marian prayer, is an “epitome of the whole Gospel” which expresses the Church’s devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. This very special devotion differs essentially from the eucharistic adoration given to any or all persons of the Trinity. (CCC 971).
Medieval piety in the West developed the prayer of the rosary as a popular substitute for the liturgy of the Hours. (CCC 2678).
The rosary is a meditative prayer and as such is intended to engage our thoughts, imaginations, emotions and desires with the purpose of deepening our faith. These effects are to prompt the conversion of our hearts and strengthen our wills to follow Christ more fully. (CCC 2708).
Here at St. Anthony of Padua Parish, the rosary begins 30 minutes prior to Mass.