LEWISTON — The Catholic Church dedicates the month of October to the Rosary and, in celebration, Prince of Peace Parish is holding a perpetual Rosary on Saturday, Oct. 31.
The Rosary will be recited continuously from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Holy Family Church, 607 Sabattus St. The service will also include prayers for the election. Social distancing guidelines will be followed, and face coverings will be worn. All are welcome to attend. Participants can stay for as short or long a period as they prefer.
The Month of the Holy Rosary was instituted to honor the Virgin Mary in gratitude for the protection Catholics believe that she gives.
Devotion to the Rosary was especially promoted in the 13th century by St. Dominic, and in the 16th century by St. Peter Canisius. Pope Leo XIII dedicated October as the Month of the Holy Rosary and, in 1895, wrote an encyclical, Adiutricem, about it. The invocation Fatima Prayer was added in the early 20th century.
In 2002, St. John Paul II called the Rosary his favorite prayer, and added a set of five reflections called the luminous mysteries. They join the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries, in providing opportunities to reflect on the lives of Jesus and Mary.
For more information about the Oct. 31, contact Prince of Peace Parish at 207-777-1200.
