In October 2002, Pope John Paul II updated the prayers of the rosary for the first time in five centuries when he issued his Apostolic Letter Rosarium Virginis Mariae. Designating this the Year of the Rosary (October 2002-October 2003), Pope John Paul II added a new set of "mysteries" — events in the lives of Jesus for worshippers to reflect on the mystery of salvation and the role of Mary as intercessor. He has also invited the faithful to pray the rosary for peace. Now, on Thursday, the Pope asks Catholics to reflect on five Mysteries of Light: Christs baptism, his first miracle at Cana, his proclaiming the coming of the Kingdom of God, his Transfiguration in front of three disciples, and the institution of the Eucharist as a sacrament.

This book offers simple meditations written by Pope John Paul II on each of the 20 mysteries of the rosary.