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Arriving early to Mass this past Sunday, I noticed a man about my father’s age praying the Rosary. It immediately brought to mind David and Valerie Calvillo, a couple I met at the CNMC in San Antonio last month, who founded a new online community titled Real Men Pray the Rosary.
Like many, my primary experience with the Rosary is at funerals. Now, it is the moment in funerals that I look forward to the most. Despite our sadness and grief, there is such a calming peace that flows through me when we unite as a family to pray the Rosary.
My first experience with a Rosary outside of a funeral was about nine years ago. The Italian woman who kept my baby daughter while I worked invited us to their Christmas family Rosary. On a weekend near Christmas Day we joined their large extended family-about 30 people-in their small living room. All of the regular furniture had been moved to bring in benches and chairs. One of the men led us all in praying the Rosary. You know when Jesus said in Matthew 18:20 “For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.” That is exactly what this Rosary was like. It was also the first time I think I’d witnessed men praying the Rosary outside of a funeral. After the Rosary, we moved into the garage where they had a banquet feast spread out on tables.
This past Sunday, when I saw that man praying the Rosary in the church, I very much wanted to find him after Mass and tell him about Real Men Pray the Rosary. Sadly, I couldn’t find him, but I’ll be on the lookout next Sunday. (I know where he sits.)
The Rosary is a comtemplative prayer that allows you to meditate on the life and teachings of Jesus. If you’re interested in learning more about praying the Rosary or even what it is, please go to Real Men Pray the Rosary and read How to Pray.
You can also read their blog, be a fan on Facebook or follow them on Twitter. They are hoping to launch a podcast sometime in the near future.