The Mysteries of Light

In 2002, Pope John Paul II proposed that a new set of optional mysteries be introduced, the Mysteries of Light. These mysteries aim to bring out the Christological depth of the Rosary. We are invited to contemplate Christ’s public ministry between his Baptism and his Passion. In these mysteries the reality of Christ is made present to us and we come to know that He is the light of the world.

Despite the Mysteries of Light being optional, there has been some resistance to their introduction. Some people are upset that the connection between the Rosary and the number 150, the number of Psalms in the Psalter, has been broken. Pope John Paul was aware of this connection, but he felt that the Rosary was in need of revitalisation. After Vatican II, with the emphasis on the centrality of the Liturgy, there was a decline in the popularity of the Rosary. However, as Pope Paul VI said, the Rosary is not in conflict with the Liturgy, but sustains it. The Rosary faithfully echoes the Liturgy, and perhaps it does this even more so with the addition of the Mysteries of Light.

Whether or not we feel comfortable praying these new mysteries, let us never forget what the Rosary is about – in the words of Pope John Paul, ‘to recite the Rosary is nothing other than to contemplate with Mary the face of Christ.’