The Joyful Mysteries - Meditations based on the Akathist and the Litany of Loreto

The Annunciation

Hail, initiate of the ineffable counsel,
full of faith in things worthy of silence,
who unite virginity with motherhood,
ladder by which God Himself descended from heaven,
you who contain the Uncontainable.
Holy Mother of God, Virgin most prudent,
Virgin Mother, Holy Mary – pray for us.

The Visitation

Hail, who release Eve from her tears,
for you carry Him who carries all things,
for you bore in your womb the Guide of those who stray,
dispenser of all of God's blessings.
Virgin most merciful, Virgin most venerable, Cause of our
joy, Holy Mary – pray for us.

The Nativity of Jesus

Hail, star showing us the Sun,
womb of the Divine Incarnation,
through whom the Creator becomes a child,
for you gave birth to the Redeemer of captives,
who bear for us the Parent of life.
Mother of Christ, Mother of the Savior,
Holy Mary – pray for us.

The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple

Hail, revealing Christ – the Lord, Friend of mankind,
most holy throne of Him who is above the Cherubim,
holy above the holy of holies,
lightning illuminating souls,
guide of believers along the path of wisdom.
Mystical Rose, Queen of Virgins, Queen of Patriarchs,
Holy Mary – pray for us.

The Finding of Jesus in the Temple

Hail, who expose the foolishness of the wise,
for the overly clever searchers have become fools,
you who are mortal men's bold access to God,
for you prepare a peaceful haven for souls,
fulness of all that is true of Him.
Tower of ivory, Comfort of the afflicted, Seat of wisdom,
Holy Mary – pray for us.