REFLECTION | Feast of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary
By Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Delatado
Published on October 8, 2024
As a priest, I often find myself looking to Mary for guidance and strength. Her life, so full of grace and surrender to God’s will, is something I try to imitate in my own vocation. There’s something deeply comforting in knowing that Mary, who gave her “yes” to God so fully, is walking with me as I strive to say my own “yes” in the many daily moments of ministry.
As we celebrate the feast of the Holy Rosary, I am reminded how powerful this simple prayer can be for us as priests. The Rosary is not just a devotion, but a lifeline—a way for us to stay close to Jesus through Mary. Each mystery leads us deeper into the life of Christ, the very life we are called to share and bring to others.
When I pray the Rosary, especially in times of struggle or uncertainty, I feel Mary’s motherly presence, reminding me that I am not alone. She accompanies us in our priesthood, just as she accompanied Jesus on His mission. In her, I find a model of trust, humility, and perseverance—virtues that I need every day in my priestly journey.
Mary teaches us, as priests, to listen more attentively to God, to be more patient with ourselves and with those we serve, and to always seek God’s will above all else. Through the Rosary, we are drawn closer to her heart, and in doing so, closer to the heart of her Son. It is my hope that in praying the Rosary, I become a better priest, one who reflects Christ’s love more clearly to those I am called to serve.
