Cardinal Leo is encouraging Catholics across the Archdiocese to pray the Rosary daily throughout the month of October both as individuals and as families. Praying the Rosary “gets us closer to Mother Mary, brings us closer to Jesus. She intercedes for us. All of our needs – as a good mother she takes them all in and presents them to Jesus.” (Mass for Solemnity of Saint Michael, St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica, September 27, 2026). In light of this, here’s a look at the history of the Oct. 7 Memorial of the Holy Rosary and the dedication of the month of October to praying the Rosary. 

The Oct. 7 Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary originated with the Battle of Lepanto. On October 7, 1571, the Holy League’s fleet defeated the Ottoman fleet near western Greece. Pope St. Pius V had encouraged Catholics to pray the Rosary for Mary’s intercession and attributed the victory to her assistance.

In 1572, Pius V established a celebration honouring Our Lady of Victory. His successor, Pope Gregory XIII, changed its emphasis to the Holy Rosary, celebrated on the first Sunday of October. Pope Clement XI extended the observance throughout the Latin Church in 1716. In 1913, Pope St. Pius X fixed its date at October 7. Today, it is a memorial in the General Roman Calendar.

Pope Leo XIII strengthened October’s association with the Rosary. In his 1883 encyclical Supremi apostolatus officio, he directed that October that year be dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, with special public Rosary devotions. His continuing teaching and encouragement helped establish October as the month of the Holy Rosary throughout the Church.

The Rosary itself developed during the Middle Ages. The Catechism explains that Western Christian devotion developed it as a popular substitute for the Liturgy of the Hours (CCC 2678). Repeated prayers became joined to meditation on Christ’s mysteries, and the Dominican Order helped spread this devotion.

Vatican II illuminates its spiritual purpose. Lumen gentium encourages Marian devotions recommended by the Church. Honouring Mary should lead us to know, love, and glorify her Son and observe his commandments (no. 66). True devotion grows from faith and inspires imitation of Mary’s virtues (no. 67).

The Catechism calls the liturgical feasts that are dedicated to Mary an “epitome of the whole Gospel” (CCC 971). Its mysteries draw us into Christ’s saving life. Marian devotion supports the adoration owed to God, and prayer with Mary unites us to the Father’s saving plan (CCC 2679).

Following Cardinal Leo’s encouragement, may our October prayer lead us to Jesus through the intercession of his Blessed Mother.

Constance Price is the Director of the Office of Formation for Discipleship at the Archdiocese of Toronto.