YOUTH ministry leaders, teachers and retailers have noticed a trend towards the wearing of rosary beads coupled with a greater interest in this sacred prayer.
Paul Ninnes, of Brisbane’s Christian Supplies store, said he’s seen a mix of people wearing rosary beads.
“Whilst I was aware that the occasional celebrity like tennis star Mary Pierce wore rosaries, I was surprised to see rock stars and teens on the streets of Japan wearing them,” he said.
Paul has found that the “added popularity has meant that young Catholics have become more aware and secure in this aspect of their faith”.
“Young people have always been inclined to follow trends, and this has been a helpful way to lead young people to Christ through Mary,” Paul said.
With a marked increase in the number of Catholic schoolgirls particularly purchasing rosary beads, retailers like Christian Supplies have introduced “make your own” varieties.
Teacher Bill Enenberg praised their use.
“The kids just love it and look forward to making them,” he said.
“To link hands-on activity with prayer has been a great aid to religious education classes.”
The Brisbane WYD08 National Evangelisation Team (NET) has noticed the increased interest.
“There seems to be an increase in the number of people wearing rosary beads but it’s a hard thing to judge as to whether someone is wearing them for fashion’s sake or for prayer’s sake,” the team’s Chris Ponifasio said.
“Either way, the fact that they are wearing them means that the wearer must at least be thinking about the Rosary and what that means to them.
“There is still a crucifix hanging around their neck which is open for public viewing, and they are showing Jesus to other people, whether it is their intention or not,” he said.
With young people’s increased interest in “praying the Rosary in front of the Blessed Sacrament” also noted, youth leader Victoria Laurenzi agreed that carrying or wearing rosary beads was a type of “visual ministry”.
“Whilst they (young people) may not pray the Rosary every time they wear them, when they are having a bad day or things are going wrong, they would feel the presence of God and realise they are not alone,” Victoria said.
“(As a) form of visual ministry … who’s not to know that when a stranger walks past a person wearing rosary beads they have not been ministered to (in) some way?” she said.
Young people are more expressive with their devotions, according to the Logan youth leader.
“I think this is the generation of ‘bead it up’,” she said.
“No longer are rosary beads kept in people’s pockets for only them and God to know they are there.
“Today is the day of wearing rosary beads around your neck, arms and ankles. This is an older practice that young people have adapted to suit them.”
For religious pieces and jewellery with a difference, especially rosary beads, Stanthorpe’s Mary Rofe has begun “Tota Pulchra Beads” on line.
She specialises in “jewellery for women that is religious, beautiful and very feminine”.
It can be viewed via www.allbeautifulcatholicbeads.com
– Selina Harris
