Experiences and Perceived Effects of Rosary Praying: A Qualitative Study
Barbara Stöckigt, Florian Jeserich, Harald Walach, M. Elies, Benno Brinkhaus, Michael Teut
Journal of Religion and Health June 9, 2021 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-021-01299-2 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 10 |
| Population | German Roman Catholic adults who regularly practice the Rosary prayer |
| Citations | 13 |
| Key findings | Participants experienced stability, peace, and a contemplative connection with the Divine through the Rosary's tangible cord and rhythmic repetition. They reported the practice aided coping with critical life events and fostered acceptance, humbleness, and devotion. |
Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore experiences and perceived effects of the Rosary on issues around health and well-being, as well as on spirituality and religiosity. A qualitative study was conducted interviewing ten Roman Catholic German adults who regularly practiced the Rosary prayer. As a result of using a tangible prayer cord and from the rhythmic repetition of prayers, the participants described experiencing stability, peace and a contemplative connection with the Divine, with Mary as a guide and mediator before God. Praying the Rosary was described as helpful in coping with critical life events and in fostering an attitude of acceptance, humbleness and devotion.