Theological Foundations new file

155 Marian Character understand how great this importance was, let us take a closer look at one of the practices typical of the Marian devotion which he recom- mended, namely, praying the rosary. This example will help us to demonstrate the tremendous profundity of this prayer which is so often considered to be a manifestation of shallow and superficial religiosity. The Renovator of the Marians instructs his confreres that they recite a part of the rosary every day and meditate piously upon the appropriate mysteries. 52 In the month of October special rosary devotions are to be celebrated in all houses of the congregation. 53 Father Matulaitis- Matulewicz also instructs the Marians to pray the rosary for the deceased. 54 He calls the rosary one of the main pious practices which the Church uses to honor Mary. In his opinion, it is a wonderful and pro- found devotion which is also amazingly simple and available to anyone. The rosary is recited in many different languages, throughout the entire Church; it is appropriate for all times and countries, all states and con- ditions of life. Sanctified by the ages and praised by the saints, recom- mended by popes and enriched with many indulgences, it has supported the Church in times of greatest need. In his conviction, it is “the bravest and an always victorious prayer.” 55 Father Matulaitis-Matulewicz emphasizes what is most essential in praying the rosary. As we recite each decade of the rosary, we should meditate upon its appropriate mysteries. The form of this meditation is free and will depend on individual ability and spiritual preparation. What matters here is the right attitude, simplicity, freedom of spirit and concentration of which man’s heart and mind are capable as they turn to the mystery. 56 In response to the potential objections against the rosary, charging that this prayer is wearisome because it consists in repeating the same words over and over, the author asks: Why does a painter look at the same beautiful view of the vast sea or the starry sky again and again and always with pleasure? Why does one stand in front of a masterpiece painting and look at it for hours? Why do we keep listening to the same piece of music? During the rosary, too, the soul sings and creates spiri-