Day 3: The Holy Rosary

The third day turns to the Holy Rosary, which Padre Pio called "the weapon" and prayed without ceasing all his life.

Padre Pio's words

"Some people are so foolish that they think they can go through life without the help of the Blessed Mother. Love the Madonna and pray the rosary, for her rosary is the weapon against the evils of the world today."

Padre Pio was rarely seen without the rosary in his hand. He is reported to have prayed thirty to forty rosaries a day in his later years, between confessions.

Reflection

The novena follows Padre Pio in returning to the Rosary as the basic Catholic prayer of intercession. The mysteries (especially the Sorrowful Mysteries) drew his contemplative attention all his life; he carried the wounds of the Crucifixion in his own body for fifty years.

Prayer

Saint Padre Pio, you who taught us to pray the rosary as the weapon of the Catholic soul, give me your love of this prayer. Let it become my daily practice as it was yours.

O Blessed Virgin Mary, accept my rosary today on behalf of my intention. Amen.

Conclude with one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be.