I’m reading a book by a Methodist pastor which I recommend for someone converting to the Catholic faith, wondering what all this Rosary stuff is all about:
Both good questions. As for holding a rosary whilst praying, I will offer up a few reasons:
It is easier to pray the rosary while holding one to help with the counting of the prayers. While I have said many a rosary without one ( waiting in lives at public places, at the gym while I run on the treadmill) I prefer to use one if I can.
People who are say chaplets often opt to use a rosary. For example, the Divine Mercy Chaplet is said using the assistance of rosary beads to help count out the prayers. I use the rosary to help with other chaplets that I may say as well.
I have also held the rosary while praying so that I can look at the cross and meditate. Sometimes I will look at the cross as I say my prayers to help settle me and bring me closer in union to Christ as I pray.
DISCLAIMER: Catholic Answers has turned over the archive to Catholic-Questions.org and no longer owns, manages, or moderates the forums. For additional apologetics resources please visit www.catholic.com.