How to Make A DIY Pilgrimage for the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary
If you are a long-time follower of Catholic Travel U.S.A., you know that most of our pilgrimages involve travel, whether it is nearby or across the country.
In honor of the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on October 7th, we decided to try something a little different: A DIY pilgrimage that you can complete in your domestic church (AKA in your home and with your family)!
Please feel free to customize this as much as you'd like - these are merely suggestions for not only observing and celebrating the day, but also making it one that is fruitful for you and your family.
Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/rosary-on-top-of-opened-bible-book-236339/
The Pilgrimage Journey for Families
Note: Before you begin, set aside a couple of hours, gather your rosary beads, and prepare a small Marian prayer space with an image or statue of Our Lady, a candle, and flowers. This will serve as your “pilgrimage base.”
Departure – Offering Your Day
Begin at your front door or main living space.
Light a candle and pray:
“Mary, Mother of God, I begin this pilgrimage in your honor. Lead me closer to your Son.”
Stop 1: The Annunciation
Scripture: Luke 1:26–38
Pray: 1st Joyful Mystery
Reflect: Mary said “yes” to God’s plan. Where is God inviting you to say “yes” right now?
Family Idea: Write your intentions in a journal or share them aloud.
Stop 2: The Visitation
Scripture: Luke 1:39–45
Pray: 2nd Joyful Mystery
Reflect: Mary brought Christ to Elizabeth. How can you bring joy to others today?
Family Idea: Write a note or say a prayer for a loved one.
Stop 3: Mary at the Cross
Scripture: John 19:25–30
Pray: 5th Sorrowful Mystery
Reflect: Mary remained faithful at the foot of the Cross. How can you stay faithful in times of trial?
Family Idea: Pray together for someone who is suffering.
Stop 4: The Coronation of Mary
Scripture: Revelation 12:1–6
Pray: 5th Glorious Mystery
Reflect: Mary is crowned Queen of Heaven and intercedes for us. How can you live as her faithful child?
Family Idea: Place a flower before Mary’s image or crown her statue with a wreath.
Closing Ritual
Pray the Litany of Loreto or the Hail, Holy Queen.
Journal: Write down one grace you received during this time.
End with a Marian hymn, such as Immaculate Mary or Salve Regina.
Final Blessing
“Mary, Queen of the Rosary, pray for us. Lead us always closer to your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.”
Ideas for making your pilgrimage even more special
Dinner
Plan a simple snack break of bread, fruit, and water for dinner. Use this time for quiet reflection and thanksgiving for God’s daily provision.
Rosary Walk
Take 10 steps per Hail Mary around the yard.
Craft
Make a rosary with beads or pipe cleaners.
Storytime
Share the history of the Battle of Lepanto and the origins of this feast day.
The Pilgrimage Journey for Solo Pilgrims or Couples
Before You Begin
Gather your rosary, a candle, and your Bible.
Choose a comfortable prayer spot (a chair, desk, or cozy nook).
Have a journal handy.
Departure – Offering Your Day
Light a candle and pray:
“Mary, Queen of the Rosary, I dedicate this time to you. Lead me closer to Christ.”
Stop 1: The Annunciation
Scripture: Luke 1:26–38
Pray: 1st Joyful Mystery
Reflect: Mary’s “yes” changed history. What “yes” is God asking of you at this stage of life (in school, career, or vocation)?
Activity: Write your intention in your journal.
Stop 2: The Visitation
Scripture: Luke 1:39–45
Pray: 2nd Joyful Mystery
Reflect: Mary carried Christ to others. How can you bring Christ into your workplace, friendships, or online presence?
Activity: Send a text or DM to someone who needs encouragement.
Stop 3: Mary at the Cross
Scripture: John 19:25–30
Pray: 5th Sorrowful Mystery
Reflect: Mary stayed at the Cross. What crosses are you carrying? How can you remain faithful when things feel uncertain?
Activity: Offer one decade of the Rosary for a friend who is struggling.
Stop 4: The Coronation of Mary
Scripture: Revelation 12:1–6
Pray: 5th Glorious Mystery
Reflect: Mary is crowned Queen of Heaven. How does her motherhood shape your identity as a son or daughter of God?
Activity: End with a Marian hymn or simply sit in silence with Mary.
Closing Prayer
Pray the Litany of Loreto or the Hail, Holy Queen.
Journal one grace you received.
Pray for clarity in your vocation.
Happy Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary! We pray that this DIY pilgrimage is a blessing to you on this and every day.