Help for the Journey

THE LUMINOUS MYSTERIES: Biblical Reflections on the Life of Christ. By Tim Gray (Emmaus Road publishing, 827 N. Fourth Street, Steubenville, Ohio 43952, 2005), 34pp. PB $11.95.

Pope John Paul II gave us the Luminous Mysteries for the Rosary and here Tim Gray takes us through meditative prayers for these mysteries based on Scripture and the teachings of Pope John Paul II. The beautiful introduction is by Archbishop Raymond L. Burke of St. Louis. Archbishop Burke states, May your study of these meditations on the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary help you “to contemplate with Mary the Face of Christ.”

In the introduction Tim Gray says, “A meditative praying of the Rosary should always be a life-giving encounter with Jesus Christ.” He says, “In giving us a new way of praying these ancient mysteries of Christ’s life, the Pope has given us something from the depths of his heart—the love of Christ that has been his life’s desire, a love he fervently wants to share with all of us.”

The Luminous Mysteries are the Baptism in the Jordan, the Wedding in Cana, the Proclamation of the Kingdom of God, the Transfiguration, and the Institution of the Eucharist. Tim Gray takes each of these and reflects upon them. His meditations are followed by thoughts of the Fathers of the Church on these great events.

Pope John Paul II called the Rosary “a true doorway to the depths of the Heart of Christ, ocean of joy and light, of suffering and glory.” With these reflections on the Luminous Mysteries we deepen our understanding of the Gospel and are inspired by them. They are thoughts worth pondering. They invite us into the life of Jesus, who said, “Learn of Me.” Gray shows that these Mysteries of Light are deeply rooted in both Scripture and Tradition.

St. John Chrysostom says here, “For our own diligence, and for our care for others, we will receive a great reward. May we attain that reward by the grace and love that God gives to man through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This book will help us on the journey.

Fr. Rawley Myers
Colorado Springs, Colo.

Book Reviews About Book Reviews

Expert and interested readers can review our Books Received page to see what is available and for instructions on how to review for HPR.