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Champions of the Rosary
From the best-selling author of the classic Catholic conversion story, No Turning Back: A Witness to Mercy by Fr. Donald H. Calloway, comes a powerful and comprehensive history of a spiritual weapon: the rosary.
450 pages, Paperback
First published August 8, 2016
466 people are currently reading
772 people want to read
About the author
Donald H. Calloway
30 books182 followersFr. Donald Calloway, MIC, a convert to Catholicism, is a member of the Congregation of Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception.
Before his conversion to Catholicism, he was a high school dropout who had been kicked out of a foreign country, institutionalized twice, and thrown in jail multiple times. After his radical conversion he earned a B.A. in Philosophy and Theology from the Franciscan University of Steubenville, M.Div. and S.T.B. degrees from the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC, and an S.T.L. in Mariology from the International Marian Research Institute in Dayton, Ohio.
Before his conversion to Catholicism, he was a high school dropout who had been kicked out of a foreign country, institutionalized twice, and thrown in jail multiple times. After his radical conversion he earned a B.A. in Philosophy and Theology from the Franciscan University of Steubenville, M.Div. and S.T.B. degrees from the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC, and an S.T.L. in Mariology from the International Marian Research Institute in Dayton, Ohio.
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February 4, 2020A crowning work for Our Lady’s Rosary. This is destined to be the resource on the rosary for many years to come. Father Donald Calloway’s history was not only thorough but also inspirational. I found myself torn between wanting to read on and yet more drawn to set the book aside and pray—not say—at least one decade in thanksgiving for this great ‘weapon’ of Our Lady.
For those who may not know Calloway’s own personal history, it was discovering and praying the rosary which brought him back from the edge of nowhere as a young man. He wasn’t just a ‘bad boy’ as he writes in his conversion story, No Turning Back: A Witness to Mercy. He had used up all his options, exhausted his generous parent’s resources and had no future except a life of crime and/or prison when he ‘accidentally’ wandered into a church one day and ‘happened’ upon a small group of Filipino women praying the rosary. Like many Catholics, they assumed that since he was there he knew how to pray it and they gathered him into their prayer circle. Fr. Calloway describes this cross-cultural (in more ways than one!) encounter with great humor and even more loving gratitude in his book, and has also repeated the story often in the numerous talks he has given on his conversion as well as the rosary. He knows that Mary used these dear souls to save his.
This book is just one of the many ways, Fr. Callaway has given back to his Mother and ours for that gift, her intercession with Her Son for him. Champions of the Rosary, The History and Heroes of a Spiritual Weapon, is exactly that, a gift to us.
Part I is the History of the Rosary from its earliest hazy beginnings, much now lost due to the workings of Providence, right up to the present. Calloway explains the Angelic Salutation, the Archangel Gabriel’s greeting to Mary recorded in Scripture, “Hail Mary, full of Grace…”, the Evangelical Salutation, also from Sacred Scripture, Elizabeth’s greeting to ‘the Mother of Her LORD’, the term ‘Marian Psalter’, which originated as a sort of ‘poor man’s way of reciting the Psalms’, i.e., one ‘Ave’ (or Hail Mary) = one Psalm. As most could not read then, being no way to produce books in sufficient quantities to educate the average person, beads, counting and pictures (stained glass and other works of art) substituted for studying the Catechism, the truths of the Faith. The word ‘rosary’ itself then came from a collection of roses, each Ave representing a rose for Our Lady.
Beginning with this very basic information, Fr. Calloway goes on to trace what information (about the rosary) was known when; which popes supported the tradition that St. Dominic received the Rosary directly from Mary and how this belief has been challenged and by whom, for what reasons and with what results. The book goes century by century outlining key players, describing pivotal moments and movements and stating not only how the Faithful perceive the impact of the rosary during each era, but also irrefutable events in History which followed on rosary campaigns. You do not have to be a believer to marvel at what has transpired as a result of this little string of beads, but if you are (and maybe even if you are not) you WILL BE IN AWE! I know reading this beautiful story filled me with happiness and only made me more eager for ‘the rest of the story’ – all the ‘minor’ miracles wrought by Our Lady’s Psalter which are known only to little souls (like me), her and of course, Her Son, Jesus, to whom she gives everything. I have my own miracles to treasure—they might appear little to some, but for me they are HUGE! God willing, I will pray this magnificent prayer every day, as often as possible, until I die.
Part II are the individual Champions of the Rosary, a brief bio of each, his/her Marian devotion, how he/she spurred on this treasured devotion and what Fr. Calloway calls, ‘Rosary Gems’ or quotes by that person on the Rosary.
Part III is Praying the Rosary: 1.) Why, 2.) How, 3.) How to become a champion, 4.) The 15 Promises to those who pray the Rosary and 5.) Indulgences.
Appendix A is worth the small price of the book itself, The Rosary in Art.
Appendix B is Our Lady’s Words to Bl. Alan de la Roche.
Appendix C is Endorsements from Cardinals and Bishops for this book, as if it were needed.
Children do not need to be forced to run to a loving mother. Once they have known her love, unless something intervenes, and so long as they remain ‘like children’ they long to run to their mother. And so it is that Jesus gave us His Mother from the Cross and she gave us the Rosary that we might always ‘hold her hand’. Let us run to her that she might bring us to Her Son who brings us to the Father.
January 23, 2020: Up to p.215 This second part is not essential, but parts are fascinating nevertheless. For instance, a friend asked about Servant of God (Father) Dolindo Ruotolo—someone I had never heard of before I discovered the Surrender Novena—and then I found him in this book, a short bio, his Marian devotion, how he was a champion of the Rosary and some of his Rosary gems (quotes). Even so, any serial reading, to me at least, is less interesting than a smooth-flowing narrative. Thinking I’m going to skim the rest. Have already referred to the GORGEOUS full-color pictures in the Appendix! WOW! I never knew there were so many beautiful works of art dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, in most of which, she is holding Baby Jesus and handing the Rosary to St. Dominic. And apparently, there are almost as many (more?) which have been destroyed or lost over the years!
January 16, 2020: Moving from the first 1/2, the history of the Rosary section, into the second, which is what the title, Champions of the Rosary, claims, the champions! Here, you encounter brief bios on each of the individual Rosary heroes/heroines, along with a number of quotes by and about them. So far, much of this material seems redundant to the first part of the book, although organized differently. It would seem one could read the first or second part depending on personal preferences. Do you like your history chronologically or one biography at a time? Still reading... If current redundancy trend continues, I may decide it is not necessary to literally read entire book. Either way, an AMAZING, inspiring and fascinating reference on the holy Rosary.
December 11, 2019: My sister gave me this awhile back and I had wanted to read it during October for the month of the rosary but then I couldn't find it. Just found it so it is going to be my Advent read.
So far, I have learned, Mary likes the words in the Hail Mary, 'the Lord is with thee'. The second half of the Hail Mary did not come about until the 14th century, when people were overwhelmed by all the calamities which occurred: the Black Death, the Avignon Papacy, the Western Schism, the 100 Years War between England and France, etc. People were so desperate that a more direct appeal to Mary was thought necessary and especially, "now" and "at the hour of our death". Up until then, the prayer only consisted of the Angelic Salutation (Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee) and the Evangelical Salutation (Blessed are thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb) No mention yet as to when Jesus' name was added.
For those who may not know Calloway’s own personal history, it was discovering and praying the rosary which brought him back from the edge of nowhere as a young man. He wasn’t just a ‘bad boy’ as he writes in his conversion story, No Turning Back: A Witness to Mercy. He had used up all his options, exhausted his generous parent’s resources and had no future except a life of crime and/or prison when he ‘accidentally’ wandered into a church one day and ‘happened’ upon a small group of Filipino women praying the rosary. Like many Catholics, they assumed that since he was there he knew how to pray it and they gathered him into their prayer circle. Fr. Calloway describes this cross-cultural (in more ways than one!) encounter with great humor and even more loving gratitude in his book, and has also repeated the story often in the numerous talks he has given on his conversion as well as the rosary. He knows that Mary used these dear souls to save his.
This book is just one of the many ways, Fr. Callaway has given back to his Mother and ours for that gift, her intercession with Her Son for him. Champions of the Rosary, The History and Heroes of a Spiritual Weapon, is exactly that, a gift to us.
Part I is the History of the Rosary from its earliest hazy beginnings, much now lost due to the workings of Providence, right up to the present. Calloway explains the Angelic Salutation, the Archangel Gabriel’s greeting to Mary recorded in Scripture, “Hail Mary, full of Grace…”, the Evangelical Salutation, also from Sacred Scripture, Elizabeth’s greeting to ‘the Mother of Her LORD’, the term ‘Marian Psalter’, which originated as a sort of ‘poor man’s way of reciting the Psalms’, i.e., one ‘Ave’ (or Hail Mary) = one Psalm. As most could not read then, being no way to produce books in sufficient quantities to educate the average person, beads, counting and pictures (stained glass and other works of art) substituted for studying the Catechism, the truths of the Faith. The word ‘rosary’ itself then came from a collection of roses, each Ave representing a rose for Our Lady.
Beginning with this very basic information, Fr. Calloway goes on to trace what information (about the rosary) was known when; which popes supported the tradition that St. Dominic received the Rosary directly from Mary and how this belief has been challenged and by whom, for what reasons and with what results. The book goes century by century outlining key players, describing pivotal moments and movements and stating not only how the Faithful perceive the impact of the rosary during each era, but also irrefutable events in History which followed on rosary campaigns. You do not have to be a believer to marvel at what has transpired as a result of this little string of beads, but if you are (and maybe even if you are not) you WILL BE IN AWE! I know reading this beautiful story filled me with happiness and only made me more eager for ‘the rest of the story’ – all the ‘minor’ miracles wrought by Our Lady’s Psalter which are known only to little souls (like me), her and of course, Her Son, Jesus, to whom she gives everything. I have my own miracles to treasure—they might appear little to some, but for me they are HUGE! God willing, I will pray this magnificent prayer every day, as often as possible, until I die.
Part II are the individual Champions of the Rosary, a brief bio of each, his/her Marian devotion, how he/she spurred on this treasured devotion and what Fr. Calloway calls, ‘Rosary Gems’ or quotes by that person on the Rosary.
Part III is Praying the Rosary: 1.) Why, 2.) How, 3.) How to become a champion, 4.) The 15 Promises to those who pray the Rosary and 5.) Indulgences.
Appendix A is worth the small price of the book itself, The Rosary in Art.
Appendix B is Our Lady’s Words to Bl. Alan de la Roche.
Appendix C is Endorsements from Cardinals and Bishops for this book, as if it were needed.
Children do not need to be forced to run to a loving mother. Once they have known her love, unless something intervenes, and so long as they remain ‘like children’ they long to run to their mother. And so it is that Jesus gave us His Mother from the Cross and she gave us the Rosary that we might always ‘hold her hand’. Let us run to her that she might bring us to Her Son who brings us to the Father.
January 23, 2020: Up to p.215 This second part is not essential, but parts are fascinating nevertheless. For instance, a friend asked about Servant of God (Father) Dolindo Ruotolo—someone I had never heard of before I discovered the Surrender Novena—and then I found him in this book, a short bio, his Marian devotion, how he was a champion of the Rosary and some of his Rosary gems (quotes). Even so, any serial reading, to me at least, is less interesting than a smooth-flowing narrative. Thinking I’m going to skim the rest. Have already referred to the GORGEOUS full-color pictures in the Appendix! WOW! I never knew there were so many beautiful works of art dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, in most of which, she is holding Baby Jesus and handing the Rosary to St. Dominic. And apparently, there are almost as many (more?) which have been destroyed or lost over the years!
January 16, 2020: Moving from the first 1/2, the history of the Rosary section, into the second, which is what the title, Champions of the Rosary, claims, the champions! Here, you encounter brief bios on each of the individual Rosary heroes/heroines, along with a number of quotes by and about them. So far, much of this material seems redundant to the first part of the book, although organized differently. It would seem one could read the first or second part depending on personal preferences. Do you like your history chronologically or one biography at a time? Still reading... If current redundancy trend continues, I may decide it is not necessary to literally read entire book. Either way, an AMAZING, inspiring and fascinating reference on the holy Rosary.
December 11, 2019: My sister gave me this awhile back and I had wanted to read it during October for the month of the rosary but then I couldn't find it. Just found it so it is going to be my Advent read.
So far, I have learned, Mary likes the words in the Hail Mary, 'the Lord is with thee'. The second half of the Hail Mary did not come about until the 14th century, when people were overwhelmed by all the calamities which occurred: the Black Death, the Avignon Papacy, the Western Schism, the 100 Years War between England and France, etc. People were so desperate that a more direct appeal to Mary was thought necessary and especially, "now" and "at the hour of our death". Up until then, the prayer only consisted of the Angelic Salutation (Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee) and the Evangelical Salutation (Blessed are thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb) No mention yet as to when Jesus' name was added.
June 27, 2017
I had a physical copy of this book for almost a year. And every time I tried to pick it up and just never got very far, because of the font and color. With my dual form of dyslexia I just could not get far and kept starting back at the beginning. Then the eBook was released, and even though I had bought the physical, I bought the eBook and read it in 2 days. I could not put it down. That was a few months ago, I have just gone back and reread it in order to write this review. This book is not a small volume at just under 550 pages it is to date the most comprehensive work on the Rosary available in English.
This book begins with a quote from St. Louis de Montfort:
"Dear reader, I promise you that if you practice this devotion [the rosary] and help to spread it you will learn more from the rosary than from any spiritual book. And what is more, you will have the happiness of being rewarded by Our Lady in accordance with the promises that she made to Saint Dominic, to Blessed Alan de la Roche and to all those who practice and encourage this devotion which is so dear to her. For the holy rosary teaches people about the virtues of Jesus and Mary, and leads them to mental prayer and to imitate Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It teaches them to approach the Sacraments often, to genuinely strive after Christian virtues and to do all kinds of good works, as well as interesting them in the many wonderful indulgences which can be gained through the rosary."
So you might ask why another book on the rosary. Fr. Calloway wrote to book after years of research, and years of prayer. The book is divided into three sections. The first is a deep history of the rosary; it is the culmination of 10 years of research and historical study. The second part of the book is profiles of 26 champions of the rosary. These 26 people, from all walks of life wrote about, or contributed to the promotion or defence of this prayer practice. And finally the third section of the book is information on praying the rosary.
Father Calloway concludes the introduction with these words:
"My greatest desire is that those who read this book will be inspired to want to pray the rosary daily and further the cause of Jesus Christ and his saving mysteries. Our world needs the rosary today more than ever. Every person who reads this book is capable of wielding this sword and becoming a champion of the rosary."
And I pray that for those who read this book because of my review. This book is an incredible read. The chapters in the first part of the book, the history of the rosary are:
From the Angelic Salutation to the 12th Century: The Antecedents of the Rosary
The 13th Century: St. Dominic and the Birth of the Rosary
The 14th Century: Plagues and Schism: The Rosary is (Almost) Forgotten
The 15th Century: Blessed Alan de la Roche and the Revival of the Confraternity of the Rosary
The 16th Century: The Rosary in Battle: Lepanto and Our Lady of Victory
The 18th Century: St. Louis de Montfort and The Secret of the Rosary
The 20th Century: Marian Apparitions and Apostles of the Rosary
The 21st Century: Luminous Mysteries in Dark Days
Part II of the book is the profiles of the 26 champions. Of the 26 champions of the rosary profiled 2 are venerable, 4 are blessed, 5 are classed as 'Servant of God', 7 are popes, and 11 are saints. And yes there are some overlaps in categories. On the list there are only two women St. Teresa of Calcutta and Lúcia Dos Santos. And of the 26 only Pope Benedict XVI is still alive. The full list of the 26 is:
St. Dominic (1170-1221)
Blessed Alan de la Roche (1428-1475)
St. Pope Pius V (1504-1572)
St. Louis de Montfort (1673-1716)
St. Alphonsus Liguori (1696-1787)
Blessed Pope Pius IX (1792-1878)
St. Anthony Mary Claret (1807-1870)
Pope Leo XIII (1810-1903)
Blessed Bartolo Longo (1841-1926)
Servant of God Joseph Kentenich (1885-1968)
Servant of God Lúcia Dos Santos (1907-2005)
St. Maximilian Kolbe (1894-1941)
Servant of God Frank Duff (1889-1980)
Pope Pius XI (1857-1939)
Blessed James Alberione (1884-1971)
Venerable Pope Pius XII (1876-1958)
Servant of God Dolindo Ruotolo (1882-1970)
St. Pio of Pietrelcina (1887-1968)
St. Josemaria Escrivá (1902-1975)
St. Pope John XXIII (1881-1963)
Servant of God Patrick Peyton (1909-1992)
Blessed Pope Paul VI (1897-1978)
Venerable Fulton J. Sheen (1895-1979)
St. Teresa of Calcutta (1910-1997)
St. John Paul II (1920-2005)
Pope Benedict XVI (1927-present)
For each of the 26 champions there is a Photo with key dates, and the photo is representative of the person's role or relationship to the rosary. This is followed by a very brief biography. An outline of their Marian devotion is the next section and then a section on why they are a champion. This is followed by Rosary Gem's or quotes from the person's works, writings or attributed to them about the rosary.
For example:
Rosary Gems
This prayer - the holy rosary - is the simplest and easiest one of all for the Christian people.
- St. Pope John XXIII
When parents and children gather together at the end of the day in the recitation of the rosary, together they meditate on the example of work, obedience, and charity which shone in the house of Nazareth; together they learn from the Mother of God to suffer serenely; to accept with dignity and courage the difficulties of life and to acquire the proper attitude to the daily events of life. It is certain that they will meet with greater facility the problems of family life. Homes will thereby be converted into sanctuaries of peace. Torrents of divine favors will come to them, even the inestimable favor of a priestly or religious vocation.
- St. Pope John XXIII
Individuals, whatever their spiritual status may be, will undoubtedly find in the fervent recitation of the holy rosary, an invitation to regulate their lives in conformity with Christian principles. They will, in truth, find in the rosary a spring of most abundant graces to help them in fulfilling faithfully their duties in life.
- St. Pope John XXIII
The well-meditated rosary consists in a threefold element. For each decade there is a picture, and for each picture a threefold emphasis, which is simultaneously: mystical contemplation, intimate reflection, and pious intention.
- St. Pope John XXIII
The rosary is a very commendable form of prayer and meditation. In saying it we weave a mystic garland of Ave Marias, Pater Nosters, and Gloria Patris.
- St. Pope John XXIII
As an exercise of Christian devotion among the faithful of the Latin Rite who constitute a notable portion of the Catholic family, the rosary ranks after Holy Mass and the Breviary for ecclesiastics [priests], and for the laity after participation in the sacraments. It is a devout form of union with God and lifts souls to a high supernatural plane.
- St. Pope John XXIII
May the rosary never fall from your hands.
- St. Pope John XXIII
The rosary is the glory of the Roman Church.
- St. Pope John XXIII
Oh, what a delight this blessed rosary is! Oh, what assurance it brings of being heard here on earth and in the eternal heavens!
- St. Pope John XXIII
I knew Pope John. His love for Our Lady and his devotion to her rosary contributed an essential element to his spiritual growth and stature.
- Servant of God Patrick Peyton
And the final section in the book Praying the Rosary:
Why Pray the Rosary?
How to Pray the Rosary
How to Become a Champion of the Rosary
The 15 Promises of Our Lady to Those Who Pray the Rosary
Indulgences of the Rosary
Appendix A: The Rosary in Art
Appendix B: Our Lady's Words to Blessed Alan de la Roche
Appendix C: Endorsements from Cardinals and Bishops
References
This book is an incredible read. If you already have a strong Marian devotion this book will help you to grow it. If it could use some improvement I cannot think of a better book to encourage, challenge and inspire you. A wonderful book and one that is needed in this day and age!
As a side note I passed on my physical copy to my church Library and always have my eBook with me.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More.
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2017 Catholic Reading Plan!
This book begins with a quote from St. Louis de Montfort:
"Dear reader, I promise you that if you practice this devotion [the rosary] and help to spread it you will learn more from the rosary than from any spiritual book. And what is more, you will have the happiness of being rewarded by Our Lady in accordance with the promises that she made to Saint Dominic, to Blessed Alan de la Roche and to all those who practice and encourage this devotion which is so dear to her. For the holy rosary teaches people about the virtues of Jesus and Mary, and leads them to mental prayer and to imitate Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It teaches them to approach the Sacraments often, to genuinely strive after Christian virtues and to do all kinds of good works, as well as interesting them in the many wonderful indulgences which can be gained through the rosary."
So you might ask why another book on the rosary. Fr. Calloway wrote to book after years of research, and years of prayer. The book is divided into three sections. The first is a deep history of the rosary; it is the culmination of 10 years of research and historical study. The second part of the book is profiles of 26 champions of the rosary. These 26 people, from all walks of life wrote about, or contributed to the promotion or defence of this prayer practice. And finally the third section of the book is information on praying the rosary.
Father Calloway concludes the introduction with these words:
"My greatest desire is that those who read this book will be inspired to want to pray the rosary daily and further the cause of Jesus Christ and his saving mysteries. Our world needs the rosary today more than ever. Every person who reads this book is capable of wielding this sword and becoming a champion of the rosary."
And I pray that for those who read this book because of my review. This book is an incredible read. The chapters in the first part of the book, the history of the rosary are:
From the Angelic Salutation to the 12th Century: The Antecedents of the Rosary
The 13th Century: St. Dominic and the Birth of the Rosary
The 14th Century: Plagues and Schism: The Rosary is (Almost) Forgotten
The 15th Century: Blessed Alan de la Roche and the Revival of the Confraternity of the Rosary
The 16th Century: The Rosary in Battle: Lepanto and Our Lady of Victory
The 18th Century: St. Louis de Montfort and The Secret of the Rosary
The 20th Century: Marian Apparitions and Apostles of the Rosary
The 21st Century: Luminous Mysteries in Dark Days
Part II of the book is the profiles of the 26 champions. Of the 26 champions of the rosary profiled 2 are venerable, 4 are blessed, 5 are classed as 'Servant of God', 7 are popes, and 11 are saints. And yes there are some overlaps in categories. On the list there are only two women St. Teresa of Calcutta and Lúcia Dos Santos. And of the 26 only Pope Benedict XVI is still alive. The full list of the 26 is:
St. Dominic (1170-1221)
Blessed Alan de la Roche (1428-1475)
St. Pope Pius V (1504-1572)
St. Louis de Montfort (1673-1716)
St. Alphonsus Liguori (1696-1787)
Blessed Pope Pius IX (1792-1878)
St. Anthony Mary Claret (1807-1870)
Pope Leo XIII (1810-1903)
Blessed Bartolo Longo (1841-1926)
Servant of God Joseph Kentenich (1885-1968)
Servant of God Lúcia Dos Santos (1907-2005)
St. Maximilian Kolbe (1894-1941)
Servant of God Frank Duff (1889-1980)
Pope Pius XI (1857-1939)
Blessed James Alberione (1884-1971)
Venerable Pope Pius XII (1876-1958)
Servant of God Dolindo Ruotolo (1882-1970)
St. Pio of Pietrelcina (1887-1968)
St. Josemaria Escrivá (1902-1975)
St. Pope John XXIII (1881-1963)
Servant of God Patrick Peyton (1909-1992)
Blessed Pope Paul VI (1897-1978)
Venerable Fulton J. Sheen (1895-1979)
St. Teresa of Calcutta (1910-1997)
St. John Paul II (1920-2005)
Pope Benedict XVI (1927-present)
For each of the 26 champions there is a Photo with key dates, and the photo is representative of the person's role or relationship to the rosary. This is followed by a very brief biography. An outline of their Marian devotion is the next section and then a section on why they are a champion. This is followed by Rosary Gem's or quotes from the person's works, writings or attributed to them about the rosary.
For example:
Rosary Gems
This prayer - the holy rosary - is the simplest and easiest one of all for the Christian people.
- St. Pope John XXIII
When parents and children gather together at the end of the day in the recitation of the rosary, together they meditate on the example of work, obedience, and charity which shone in the house of Nazareth; together they learn from the Mother of God to suffer serenely; to accept with dignity and courage the difficulties of life and to acquire the proper attitude to the daily events of life. It is certain that they will meet with greater facility the problems of family life. Homes will thereby be converted into sanctuaries of peace. Torrents of divine favors will come to them, even the inestimable favor of a priestly or religious vocation.
- St. Pope John XXIII
Individuals, whatever their spiritual status may be, will undoubtedly find in the fervent recitation of the holy rosary, an invitation to regulate their lives in conformity with Christian principles. They will, in truth, find in the rosary a spring of most abundant graces to help them in fulfilling faithfully their duties in life.
- St. Pope John XXIII
The well-meditated rosary consists in a threefold element. For each decade there is a picture, and for each picture a threefold emphasis, which is simultaneously: mystical contemplation, intimate reflection, and pious intention.
- St. Pope John XXIII
The rosary is a very commendable form of prayer and meditation. In saying it we weave a mystic garland of Ave Marias, Pater Nosters, and Gloria Patris.
- St. Pope John XXIII
As an exercise of Christian devotion among the faithful of the Latin Rite who constitute a notable portion of the Catholic family, the rosary ranks after Holy Mass and the Breviary for ecclesiastics [priests], and for the laity after participation in the sacraments. It is a devout form of union with God and lifts souls to a high supernatural plane.
- St. Pope John XXIII
May the rosary never fall from your hands.
- St. Pope John XXIII
The rosary is the glory of the Roman Church.
- St. Pope John XXIII
Oh, what a delight this blessed rosary is! Oh, what assurance it brings of being heard here on earth and in the eternal heavens!
- St. Pope John XXIII
I knew Pope John. His love for Our Lady and his devotion to her rosary contributed an essential element to his spiritual growth and stature.
- Servant of God Patrick Peyton
And the final section in the book Praying the Rosary:
Why Pray the Rosary?
How to Pray the Rosary
How to Become a Champion of the Rosary
The 15 Promises of Our Lady to Those Who Pray the Rosary
Indulgences of the Rosary
Appendix A: The Rosary in Art
Appendix B: Our Lady's Words to Blessed Alan de la Roche
Appendix C: Endorsements from Cardinals and Bishops
References
This book is an incredible read. If you already have a strong Marian devotion this book will help you to grow it. If it could use some improvement I cannot think of a better book to encourage, challenge and inspire you. A wonderful book and one that is needed in this day and age!
As a side note I passed on my physical copy to my church Library and always have my eBook with me.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More.
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2017 Catholic Reading Plan!
May 26, 2018
ENGLISH: The first part of this book is a history of the Rosary, since its origins in the time of Dominic of Guzman, founder of Dominicans, its revival by Alan de la Roche, and the vicissitudes of its practise up to the twenty-first century.
The author tends to be a little far-fetched in his deductions about Divine Providence. For instance, he states that Alan de la Roche did not call it "the Rosary," as he preferred the name "Our Lady's Psalter." Five years later, Jacob Sprenger imitated La Roche in Köln (Cologne), but used the name "the Rosary." Sprenger's attempt was more successful than La Roche's, and therefore the name "the rosary" became established. According to Calloway this was an act of Divine Providence to make possible that five centuries later John Paul II could extend the full Rosary from 150 to 200 Hail Marys, by adding the Luminous mysteries. I can't believe God's action would have been prevented by the other name.
In his unrelenting defense of the attribution of the origin of the Rosary to St. Dominic (what he calls the Pious Tradition), Calloway is hard with those Jesuits who opposed this historical theory and even suggests that the suppression of the order at the end of the eighteenth century was a Divine punishment. He also writes hard words against Herbert Thurston, who also wrote against the Pious Tradition in the twentieth century.
The second part is a series of 26 short biographies of "Champions of the Rosary." This part is quite interesting, although somewhat repetitive, as some of the things he writes here also appear in the first part of the book.
The third part (why and how to pray the Rosary) is unnecessary for those Catholics that already practise this prayer, but may be useful for those who do not.
SPANISH: La primera parte de este libro es una historia del rosario, desde su orígen en la época de Domingo de Guzmán, fundador de los dominicos, su restauración por Alan de la Roche, y las vicisitudes de su práctica hasta el siglo XXI.
El autor tiende a ser demasiado imaginativo en sus deducciones sobre la Divina Providencia. Por ejemplo, afirma que Alan de la Roche no lo llamó "rosario", porque prefería el nombre "salterio de Nuestra Señora". Cinco años después, Jacob Sprenger imitó a La Roche en Köln (Colonia), pero usó el nombre de "rosario". El intento de Sprenger tuvo más éxito que el de La Roche, por lo que ese nombre fue adoptado. Según Calloway, fue un acto de la Divina Providencia para posibilitar que cinco siglos después Juan Pablo II extendiera el rosario completo de 150 a 200 avemarías, al agregar los misterios luminosos. No puedo creer que la acción de Dios no hubiese sido posible si se hubiera impuesto el otro nombre.
En su implacable defensa de la atribución del origen del rosario a Santo Domingo (lo que él llama la Tradición Pía), Calloway es duro con los jesuitas que se opusieron a esta teoría histórica e incluso llega a sugerir que la supresión de su orden a fines del siglo XVIII fue un castigo divino. También dedica palabras muy duras a Herbert Thurston, quien también escribió contra la Tradición Pía en el siglo XX.
La segunda parte contiene 26 biografías breves de "Campeones del Rosario". Esta parte es bastante interesante, aunque algo repetitiva, ya que algunas de las cosas que escribe aquí también aparecen en la primera parte del libro.
La tercera parte (por qué y cómo rezar el Rosario) es innecesaria para los católicos que ya practican esta oración, pero puede ser útil para los que no lo hacen.
The author tends to be a little far-fetched in his deductions about Divine Providence. For instance, he states that Alan de la Roche did not call it "the Rosary," as he preferred the name "Our Lady's Psalter." Five years later, Jacob Sprenger imitated La Roche in Köln (Cologne), but used the name "the Rosary." Sprenger's attempt was more successful than La Roche's, and therefore the name "the rosary" became established. According to Calloway this was an act of Divine Providence to make possible that five centuries later John Paul II could extend the full Rosary from 150 to 200 Hail Marys, by adding the Luminous mysteries. I can't believe God's action would have been prevented by the other name.
In his unrelenting defense of the attribution of the origin of the Rosary to St. Dominic (what he calls the Pious Tradition), Calloway is hard with those Jesuits who opposed this historical theory and even suggests that the suppression of the order at the end of the eighteenth century was a Divine punishment. He also writes hard words against Herbert Thurston, who also wrote against the Pious Tradition in the twentieth century.
The second part is a series of 26 short biographies of "Champions of the Rosary." This part is quite interesting, although somewhat repetitive, as some of the things he writes here also appear in the first part of the book.
The third part (why and how to pray the Rosary) is unnecessary for those Catholics that already practise this prayer, but may be useful for those who do not.
SPANISH: La primera parte de este libro es una historia del rosario, desde su orígen en la época de Domingo de Guzmán, fundador de los dominicos, su restauración por Alan de la Roche, y las vicisitudes de su práctica hasta el siglo XXI.
El autor tiende a ser demasiado imaginativo en sus deducciones sobre la Divina Providencia. Por ejemplo, afirma que Alan de la Roche no lo llamó "rosario", porque prefería el nombre "salterio de Nuestra Señora". Cinco años después, Jacob Sprenger imitó a La Roche en Köln (Colonia), pero usó el nombre de "rosario". El intento de Sprenger tuvo más éxito que el de La Roche, por lo que ese nombre fue adoptado. Según Calloway, fue un acto de la Divina Providencia para posibilitar que cinco siglos después Juan Pablo II extendiera el rosario completo de 150 a 200 avemarías, al agregar los misterios luminosos. No puedo creer que la acción de Dios no hubiese sido posible si se hubiera impuesto el otro nombre.
En su implacable defensa de la atribución del origen del rosario a Santo Domingo (lo que él llama la Tradición Pía), Calloway es duro con los jesuitas que se opusieron a esta teoría histórica e incluso llega a sugerir que la supresión de su orden a fines del siglo XVIII fue un castigo divino. También dedica palabras muy duras a Herbert Thurston, quien también escribió contra la Tradición Pía en el siglo XX.
La segunda parte contiene 26 biografías breves de "Campeones del Rosario". Esta parte es bastante interesante, aunque algo repetitiva, ya que algunas de las cosas que escribe aquí también aparecen en la primera parte del libro.
La tercera parte (por qué y cómo rezar el Rosario) es innecesaria para los católicos que ya practican esta oración, pero puede ser útil para los que no lo hacen.
August 13, 2023
AMAZING book on the Rosary. I found the history and stories extremely inspiring. I will definitely be re-reading this in the future. Highly recommend.
February 4, 2024
This is probably the most comprehensive book I could recommend on the Rosary. Not only does it tell you practical things like how and why we should pray the Rosary, but it tells the whole history of the devotion, beginning with St. Dominic. The book goes through different time periods that were important for the development and establishment of the Rosary, then it gives snapshot chapters of different people throughout history who were true “Champions of the Rosary. The last bit is on how to pray it, the indulgences attached to it, and the 15 promises Our Lady gave to Bl. Alan de la Roche. The appendices are exhaustive as well, containing beautiful artwork of the Rosary from throughout its history and recommendations of the book by many bishops. I would recommend this even to non-Catholics as a solid resource on understanding why Catholics pray the Rosary, what it means, and how it came to be.
April 12, 2018
Amazing book -annointed teacher/priest filled with the Holy Spirit. It is has deepened my prayer life, my knowledge and appreciation of the rosary. Finding out that the rosary is not just a prayer among many other, but the prayer fashion by God himself and given by the Virgin Mary to St Dominic, is a game change. After the mass and the sacraments, the rosary is the highest form of prayer. As Matthew Kelly says, there is genius in catholicism and I feel very blessed that the Lord has called me to the Church he himself established :-) Praise be to God. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph pray for us and give us to the fullness of truth and love.
February 12, 2017
This book has changed my life in that I learned so much about the rosary and the power of having a devotion to it! Fr. Calloway does an excellent job of explaining the mysteries of the rosary and the miracles that have occurred from praying it as well as providing an interesting and in depth history! It is hands down the best book I have ever laid hands on! I keep finding myself going back to it and Re-reading/ reviewing information. I recommend highlighting the information you find important for easy future reference.
June 11, 2018
The first part is a century-by-century account of the development of the Rosary and its influence. The second part contains short bios of saints who promoted the rosary, along with a few quotes from each. Though I have been praying the rosary all my life, reading all these testimonies together has made me more aware of its importance.
March 11, 2018
amazing book. Life changing!
January 23, 2021
So interesting and so well done. For a book that chronicles the history of the rosary, (history not being normally my thing) somehow it kept my interest and made me want to depend on this prayer more and more. Very inspirational and well written!
October 29, 2023
There is probably no better book to learn about the origins, the power and the practice of (praying) the Rosary than fr. Calloway's Champions of the Rosary. It is a very accessible and complete compilation of experiences of the saints and venerables, as well as a great inspiration to renew devotion to the Rosary and to Mother Mary.
Fr. Calloway has clearly done a lot of work to collect all his information and arrange it in this practical way. It was an interesting and inspiring work to read and I'd love to read more of his works (actually, I've already started to read another! The Consecration to Saint Joseph).
I'd recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about (praying) the Rosary, to those Catholics who wonder why they should bother praying the Rosary and to those who oppose to praying the Rosary because they believe it to be repetitive and therefore wrong (read the book and be surprised!).
Fr. Calloway has clearly done a lot of work to collect all his information and arrange it in this practical way. It was an interesting and inspiring work to read and I'd love to read more of his works (actually, I've already started to read another! The Consecration to Saint Joseph).
I'd recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about (praying) the Rosary, to those Catholics who wonder why they should bother praying the Rosary and to those who oppose to praying the Rosary because they believe it to be repetitive and therefore wrong (read the book and be surprised!).
February 11, 2020
Fr. Don Calloway gives an excellent history and expresses its power and divine origin so well. I really couldn’t put it down, it was so informative and thoroughly enjoyable. It gave me an understanding I didn’t previously have, it made me want to pick up the rosary even more than I had done before and I would recommend it.
May 25, 2025
ENGLISH:
This is a serious, rich, and engaging book—especially for someone already praying the Rosary and looking to understand its deeper meaning, history, and power. What I appreciated most is how clearly it presents what the Church, the popes, and many key saints have said about it throughout the centuries.
The first part gives a well-structured historical overview, going century by century in a way that’s easy to follow and well-written. You really get a sense of how this prayer developed and became central in Catholic devotion.
Then come 26 short biographies of important figures connected to the Rosary. They do feel a bit repetitive at times—many names reappear—but you still get a strong impression of how deeply this devotion shaped their lives. Most of them come across as people deeply moved and guided by the Holy Spirit, and their stories are inspiring.
The final part is more practical: how to pray it, why to pray it, and what the Church teaches about indulgences. If you already pray the Rosary regularly, it’s maybe less essential, but for beginners it’s probably the most helpful section in the whole book.
Overall, it’s a complete and beautiful read—really good for understanding why this prayer means so much to so many people. My only small criticism is that the tone sometimes gets a bit too “militant”—there’s a lot of talk about the Rosary as a weapon, and some historical events are told with a bit too much triumphalism. Still, that probably reflects the mindset of the people and times being described. In general, I read it quickly and really enjoyed it.
⸻
SPANISH:
Es un libro serio, completo y muy interesante, sobre todo para quienes ya rezan el Rosario y quieren profundizar en su historia, su poder y lo que la Iglesia ha dicho sobre él a lo largo de los siglos. A mí lo que más me gustó fue cómo recoge tan claramente la voz del papado, de los santos, y de los documentos oficiales. Se nota que está bien trabajado.
La primera parte da una visión histórica muy bien organizada, siglo por siglo, y está escrita de forma sencilla. Uno entiende perfectamente cómo se fue formando esta oración y cómo fue ganando tanta importancia.
Después vienen 26 biografías de personas clave en esta devoción. Algunas se sienten un poco repetitivas porque ya habían sido mencionadas antes, pero aun así inspiran mucho. Se ve claramente cómo el Rosario los impulsó a llevar una vida de entrega, de fe y de santidad. La mayoría parecen guiados realmente por el Espíritu Santo.
La última parte es más práctica: cómo rezarlo, por qué rezarlo, qué indulgencias hay y qué hay que hacer para recibirlas. Si ya lo rezas con frecuencia, quizás no te aporta mucho nuevo, pero para quien empieza es la parte más útil del libro.
En resumen, es un libro bonito, completo y que vale la pena. Si quieres entender bien qué es esta oración dentro de la vida católica, es una muy buena lectura. Como única pega, diría que a veces el tono se vuelve un poco agresivo o “militante”, habla del Rosario como arma espiritual y se nota cierta alegría al narrar eventos históricos violentos. Pero bueno, también entiendo que eso forma parte del contexto de los personajes. En general, lo leí muy rápido porque me gustó mucho y me atrapó desde el principio.
March 16, 2019
I grew up saying the rosary, but never really questioned or asked about its origins. The book has three parts: history of the rosary, short pieces on 26 champions of the rosary, and a how to pay the rosary guide.
Father Calloway lovingly and in a very detailed way crafts the history of the spiritual sword: the origin of the prayers, the saints who preached its devotion, and the great battles won through Mary's intercession. My only critique of this section is that I found myself getting lost in all the numerous names, places, and people. At times it was a bit of a work to get through the sections. The detail is also a strength of course, and I learned an incredible amount.
The second section is sorry vignettes on individual saints who championed the rosary. These were all addressed in the history, but I really enjoyed the brief background and quotes sections.
The third section was by far the shortest. I admittedly skimmed a lot, but I still learned from this section, including about indulgences attached to the rosary.
All in all, I highly recommend this book to any Catholic, or even Christians and non-Christians curious about those beads dangling from so many rear view mirrors.
Father Calloway lovingly and in a very detailed way crafts the history of the spiritual sword: the origin of the prayers, the saints who preached its devotion, and the great battles won through Mary's intercession. My only critique of this section is that I found myself getting lost in all the numerous names, places, and people. At times it was a bit of a work to get through the sections. The detail is also a strength of course, and I learned an incredible amount.
The second section is sorry vignettes on individual saints who championed the rosary. These were all addressed in the history, but I really enjoyed the brief background and quotes sections.
The third section was by far the shortest. I admittedly skimmed a lot, but I still learned from this section, including about indulgences attached to the rosary.
All in all, I highly recommend this book to any Catholic, or even Christians and non-Christians curious about those beads dangling from so many rear view mirrors.
March 31, 2018
A chapter for each century from the 12th, then 13th and St. Dominic all the way to the 21st century. A wonderfully rich history of prayer, it's development, and how that affects people's lives. The second part has 26 brief biographies of individuals whom the rosary has greatly affected or who have promoted this devotion. The final portions are about praying the rosary.
This has definitely encouraged me to increase my rosary prayer. I marked several wonderful quotes. I'll be using this as a reference.
This has definitely encouraged me to increase my rosary prayer. I marked several wonderful quotes. I'll be using this as a reference.
June 28, 2017
Simply put, this must go down in Church history as one of the finest compilations of information on the spiritual weapon that is the most holy rosary.
Fr Calloway has created a masterpiece that was a privilege to read. There is much to be said of this literary work, and any review here wouldn't be sufficient. Thank you Fr Calloway for a beautiful book on this most beautiful gift given to us by the most Blessed Virgin Mary.
Fr Calloway has created a masterpiece that was a privilege to read. There is much to be said of this literary work, and any review here wouldn't be sufficient. Thank you Fr Calloway for a beautiful book on this most beautiful gift given to us by the most Blessed Virgin Mary.
April 13, 2019
The best written, most comprehensive book on the Rosary that you can read!! Must read for all Catholics and for anyone interested in the origins, history, miracles that can be attributed to this great prayer form and spiritual weapon!!! This book has everything, almost encyclopedic in its thorough treatment of the subject. Part research paper, part documentary, Fr. Calloway has written the definitive work on the Rosary!!!
December 22, 2020
A great, thorough book on the history of the rosary and the many saints that prayed and promoted it! My one complaint is the the author's repeated spiritual interpretations of historical events within the section detailing the history of the rosary. Although they are interesting interpretations, I think it throws off the flow of the text, going from researched history, to spiritual commentary that may or may not be true, and then back to researched history.
March 8, 2017
Excellent book which clearly and simply describes where the rosary comes from with detailed references. Highlights the champions of this spiritual weapon and its effects in the world order, knights who effectively wielded this weapon against foes who defame the Christian world and all it stands for. A good historical account of the eternal battle and the part the rosary played.
October 17, 2017
Impressive research into the history of the rosary. Includes (as the title implies) true champions of the rosary. Fr. Calloway has created an excellent book that informs, inspires, and instructs. The art at the back of the book is a treasure in itself. I will keep this book near to use as a reference. I already pray the rosary daily and this book helps support that decision.
January 29, 2020
I gave it 5 stars because I love history and getting more in-depth with the theology. Fair warning that a lot of people will find this to be a heavy read (think almost textbook like), but if you're starving for information, this is an excellent and well put together book. Fr. Calloway clearly did his homework and it shows.
March 23, 2020
The rosary is the prayer above all prayer. Fr. Calloway presents the beauty of the rosary and shows how this devotion is a lifeline for all those who call Mary mother. The Champions of the Rosary part of the book was especially encouraging. I personally was drawn to Bartalo Longo as he was a lay man who did much to propogate the rosary. I hope to be able to do the same thing.
May 6, 2020
A book for Rosary Warriors
Why say the Rosary? What does it do? What has the Rosary done? It has led to battle wins in the 16th and 17th centuries, Lepanto, and other places. It has led people to God, it has led people away from addicting substances. Ask the Blessed Virgin to support you.
Why say the Rosary? What does it do? What has the Rosary done? It has led to battle wins in the 16th and 17th centuries, Lepanto, and other places. It has led people to God, it has led people away from addicting substances. Ask the Blessed Virgin to support you.
November 11, 2023
I love the Blessed Mother and the Holy Rosary and am a big fan of Fr. Calloway. You could hear and see his love for the Lord, and His Blessed Mother and for the Rosary. There was so much wonderful information, beautiful pictures, and many quotes and experiences from past leaders, priests, Popes, etc.
March 3, 2018
Praying the rosary has been a deeper experience and I have a different hunger since I indulged in Fr. Calloway's book. While you can put it down, you will be mesmerized by the history of the rosary. I was enchanted by Calloway's tone of a simple, childlike faith.
August 2, 2018
There is a wealth of information between these covers, a lot was new and some I didn't fully grasp.
It's not an easy read, and you really have to devote some time to absorbing. Comprehensive and historical. I'd recommend.
It's not an easy read, and you really have to devote some time to absorbing. Comprehensive and historical. I'd recommend.
June 7, 2020
Amazing book
Beautiful teaching ! It will deepen your devotion to our Lady and her Rosary .the stories of heros will inspire you .
Truly a book and a devotion for our time .i highly recommend it.
Beautiful teaching ! It will deepen your devotion to our Lady and her Rosary .the stories of heros will inspire you .
Truly a book and a devotion for our time .i highly recommend it.
August 7, 2023
Not only is Calloway a Novus Ordo fake priest but he continously uses the term 'Divine Craftsman' for God which is a pagan/Gnostic/heretical term which states that God made the universe out of preexisting matter.
September 8, 2024
Historical accounts helping understand why the Rosary
I love that this book helps to understand the rosary from the beginning through today and why it is so important. Thank you, Callaway.
I love that this book helps to understand the rosary from the beginning through today and why it is so important. Thank you, Callaway.
July 3, 2017
Amazing 800 year history of the weapon of truth and instrument of mercy.
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