Recently, The Atlantic ran an article titled, “How the Rosary Became an Extremist Symbol.” In the article, the author argues that the Rosary, like an AR-15, is a symbol for an increasingly radicalized minority that stands in opposition to the author’s secular utopia. In short, the author argues that the readers of The Atlantic will know the opposition by their rosaries.
While the anti-catholic bigotry is on full display in the article, the author is actually somewhat right. The rosary is a symbol for a radicalized minority - only it is nothing like an AR-15. The rosary is a spiritual weapon that brings peace and love into the darkest corners of creation. And, the good news is, it seems to have those who choose to dwell in darkness over at The Atlantic shaking in their boots.
But, why is the Rosary so powerful? Did you know that Mary has appeared more than 60 times in the last century with messages deemed likely authentic? If there is one hallmark of an authentic Marian apparition - from Fatima to today - somewhere in her message she reminds us to pray the rosary:
"Pray the rosary every day in order to obtain peace for the world." - Fatima, Portugal 1917
"Pray a great deal, recite the Rosary, and pray for the conversion of sinners, for nonbelievers and for all Christians." - Tre Fontane, Italy 1947
"The only weapon you will have left is the Rosary... Each day recite the prayers of the Rosary. With the Rosary, pray for the Pope, the bishops and priests." - Akita, Japan 1973
"I want the Rosary to be prayed every day. I want it to be prayed permanently within the family… including the children old enough to understand - to be prayed at a set hour when there are no problems with the work in the home.” - Cuapa, Nicaragua 1980
"If you want to see me, you must pray the Holy Rosary." - Belpasso, Italy 1987
"I am the Queen of the Rosary. Its strength is great, it is a victorious and mighty weapon." - Trevignano Romano Italy, 2014
The messages serve as a wake-up call to the faithful and a worldwide call to deeper prayer and conversion. The spirit of the world wants nothing more than for you to stop praying, but the Queen of Heaven implores you to persevere. Holy Mary, Queen of Heaven, Pray for us