The Rosary, when recited during a funeral or wake, is a prayerful devotion central to Catholic tradition. It involves meditating on specific mysteries in the lives of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary while reciting a series of prayers, primarily the Hail Mary, along with the Our Father and Glory Be. This practice provides a structured framework for prayer and reflection during a time of grief and remembrance.
This devotional exercise offers comfort and spiritual solace to bereaved families and friends. It expresses belief in the resurrection of the dead and the promise of eternal life. Historically, the recitation of the Rosary has been a customary way to honor the deceased, offer prayers for the repose of their soul, and seek intercession from the Virgin Mary. Furthermore, the communal aspect of reciting the Rosary brings people together in shared faith and support during a difficult period.