Monday Night Rosary: A Community of Prayer Gathering Faithfully in Christ

When we look around our community, country, and world, there are always people who need prayers. And, we know one of the most powerful Catholic prayers is the Rosary. Mary has specifically asked that the Rosary be prayed, and there’s no time like the present to pray the Rosary with fellow parishioners. All are welcome at 7 p.m. on Mondays in the Friars Chapel at St. Francis Solanus.

Bob Haas has been gathering with the group as often as possible for several years. He gives all the credit for this ministry to Phil and Sherry Kemner, who have led the Rosary for more than 40 years. Each decade includes a reflection, which is one thing that Bob appreciates.

“I don’t like rushing through the Rosary,” he says. “I like having time to reflect and pray together slowly. I don’t find it very prayerful when it’s rushed.”

Bob and his wife, Jane, attend as often as possible. About 12 to 20 people attend each week. It’s also been a way to get to know people, as the attendees often visit a bit afterward.

“I’d like to see more people come and pray,” Bob says. “Just try it, as it might help you on your spiritual journey.”

As a visual person, Bob has several Rosary books that he can read while focusing on a piece of classical art. He also loves to pray with various online resources. He suggests trying a variety of resources to find the best way to pray the Rosary. If you struggle to pray the Rosary, you may not have the right guide yet.

“Our Blessed Mother asked us to pray the Rosary, and I try to do that at least a couple times per week,” Bob says. “The Rosary draws us to Jesus — that’s the whole point. Mary always draws us to Jesus.”

Bob appreciates that Phil and Sherry always display a statue of Mary and even decorate with flowers at times. It reminds him of the Rosary’s importance.

In addition to his participation in the Monday Night Rosary, Bob uses his woodworking skills for projects around the parish and to make crosses and crucifixes. He’s also on the team for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and sings with the 9 a.m. choir. He serves as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and helps change the messaging on the outdoor signs.

“It’s good to get involved,” says Bob. “I appreciate all the people I’ve gotten to know over the years.”

Come pray the Rosary on Mondays at 7 p.m. There is always room for more people.

Gathering to pray the Rosary