October holds special significance for Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, not only because of our feast day on October 7th but also because we dedicate the entire month to celebrating our namesake and the powerful prayer of the Rosary.
Over the past two years, we have focused on organising various events that support prayer, fellowship, and community spirit, something the parish has been strengthening since COVID. So, what can you expect this October?
1. Men’s Group Rosary – Saturday, Oct 5th, 8 AM at the Nulty Room, Rosary starts at 8:30 AM
The Men's Rosary group meets on the first Saturday of every month. Reflecting the Fatima first Saturday devotion. They offer reparation for the sins of men and seeks blessings for the well-being of women in our lives and society, promoting a more faithful Australia.
2. Clergy Rosary - Sunday, October 6th, 9 AM, before Mass
With everyone's busy lives, we seldom get the chance to pray with our priests outside of Mass. To help prepare for our feast, Fr. Brendan will lead us through the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary.
3. OLOR Feast Celebration – Sunday, October 6th, from 9:30 AM
Join us to celebrate our feast day, a day early but no less significant! Activities will include:
- 9:30 AM: Mass, immediately followed by An offering/dedication to Mary as people leave Mass
- Parish BBQ and fellowship (please bring a plate Kids' activity led by the OLOR Youth Group
- 11:00 AM: Mass, immediately followed by An offering/dedication to Mary as people leave Mass
4. OLOR Feast – Monday, October 7th
Join us for Mass (times available here) to celebrate our feast day.
5. Families and Youth Rosary – Saturday, October 12th, immediately after the 9:30 AM Mass
Led by the OLOR Youth Group, this is the perfect opportunity to introduce your kids to the beauty of the Rosary
6. Clergy Rosary - Saturday, October 19th, immediately after the 9:30 AM Mass
Did you miss the opportunity to pray with Fr. Brendan? Or did you enjoy it so much that you’d like to do it again? Join us for a second Clergy Rosary with either Fr. Hien or Fr. Vitalis.
7. Women’s Rosary – Saturday, October 26th, immediately after the 9:30 AM Mass
Calling all women in the parish! Join this special Rosary group dedicated to women, offering a great opportunity for fellowship with other women of Christ.
The Origins of the Month of the Rosary
October is dedicated to deepening devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary through the recitation of the Rosary. This tradition dates back to 1571 when Pope Pius V established the, Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, on October 7th, in gratitude for the naval victory at Lepanto, attributed to the intercession of the Blessed Mother. During this month, parishes and individuals are encouraged to pray the Rosary more frequently, fostering a deeper connection with the life of Christ and the protective love of Mother Mary.
The Month of the Rosary at OLOR
The Month of the Rosary is a special time for the faithful to come together in communal prayer and reflection, especially during the Year of Prayer as designated by His Holiness, the Pope. Whether you have never prayed the Rosary before or do so daily, October is the perfect time to unite in prayer with the parish.
We also encourage families to pray the Rosary at home, making it a regular part of their spiritual routine. This devotion not only strengthens personal faith but also unites communities in a shared expression of reverence and petition, serving as a powerful reminder of the Blessed Virgin's presence and guidance in the life of the Church.
If you need resources, Rosary prayer guides, or Rosary beads, contact the Cathedral office at (02) 8379 1700, or email cathedral@bbcatholic.org.au.