The Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary
In the same manner as we believe that the summit of Christian perfection is reached through union with Christ, the fountain of all perfections, and also through the union of Christians among themselves; so in order to attain this perfection we are piously taught that the best means is prayer, and a union and co-operation with our brethren and neighbors in piety and good works. It is for this reason that the Church encourages confraternities, and especially the Rosary Confraternity—the most ancient and universal in the Catholic Church.
Confraternities of the Rosary, established in Dominican Churches, not only enjoy the privileges and indulgences which are common to Confraternities of this character, but also all the privileges, indulgences, favors and concessions granted to any other Confraternity of whatever kind or title. (Benedict XIII, May 26, 1727.) Moreover, the members of the Rosary Confraternity participate, during life and after death, in all the good works, merits and suffrages of the three Orders of St. Dominic.
How to be Admitted into the Confraternity
1. It is necessary to give one's name to a Dominican Priest (or to a Priest who has Dominican faculties).
2. To have one's name entered in the register.
3. To have beads blessed by a Dominican Father (or by a Priest who has Dominican faculties).
All Catholics who have the use of reason can be admitted into the Confraternity. Those absent, the deaf and dumb and the dying can be admitted, provided that they have expressed their desire.
Duties.—The whole fifteen mysteries are to be said by each associate every week; these mysteries may be said separately. Meditation (at the least calling the mystery to mind), is necessary to gain the Indulgences.
The associates do not bind themselves to these duties under any pain of sin; but if the entire Rosary is not said during the week, the member will forfeit many of the Indulgences.