The Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary consist of: the annunciation of Gabriel to Mary, the visitation of Mary to Elizabeth, the birth of Jesus, the presentation of Jesus in the temple, and the finding of Jesus in the temple. Pope John Paul II in his Apostolic Letter entitled 'Rosarium Virginis Maria' said that the joyful mysteries are marked by the joy radiating from the events of the incarnation. The Annunciation, Gabriel's greeting to the virgin Mary, is an invitation to messianic joy. He says the whole of history has led up to the Annunciation. The visitation of Mary to Elizabeth and the birth of the divine Child is marked by exultation and gladness. John leaped for joy at the presence of Christ. The angels declared concerning the incarnation that it is news of great joy.
The presentation of Jesus in the temple and finding Jesus in the temple preserve the climate of joy and they point to future drama. There is joy in Jesus' consecration and the ecstasy of Simeon. These mysteries are mixed with joy and drama.
In the final mystery, however, Jesus appears most clearly in his divine wisdom. At the temple he listens and asks questions. He is teacher. His role as teacher is one of the tasks his Father has entrusted to him, and he is fully dedicated to fulfilling it.
The Pope says that to meditate on the joyful mysteries is to enter into the ultimate causes and the deepest meaning of Christian joy.
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