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Participants at a rosary-making workshop display their creations (Supplied)

With October being the month dedicated to the Holy Rosary, Parramatta Diocese has launched a new initiative to teach people of all ages how to make rosaries. Source: Catholic Outlook. 

These handmade rosaries are being donated to those in need to offer a connection with God in a deep and meditative way, and invite Mary to be a constant companion.  

Since the early 13th Century, the Rosary has been recognised as a powerful prayer that offers spiritual strength, peace, and a deeper connection to God through its contemplative nature and historical significance.

Countless saints throughout the ages have called on Mary’s intercession in their greatest time of need through the devotion of the Holy Rosary. 

The Parramatta Diocese’s Office for Worship has begun hosting workshops at the Bishop Bede Heather Centre in Blacktown to teach parishioners and others interested in the simple steps of making a rosary, enabling them to contribute to this great movement.  

To date, two workshops have been run in Blacktown, and the team has also visited St Bernadette’s Parish in Castle Hill to teach the parish’s seniors’ group.  

Through these workshops, more than 70 rosaries have been made and donated for distribution in the hospitals across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.  

Two more sessions will be held this month, open to everyone, regardless of age or ability.  

The team has also compiled DIY rosary kits, complete with all the materials needed to make five simple corded rosaries at home.  

Many of these rosaries will be donated to hospital chaplains throughout the diocese. A large part of a chaplain’s work and mission is to offer spiritual support by praying the Rosary with the patients and their families. 

By offering patients and their families a set of rosary beads, chaplains also provide a sign of hope, peace, and healing during a time of great need.

FULL STORY

Rosaries of Hope: Uniting generations in prayer and compassion for those in need (By Lucy Woodbury, Catholic Outlook)