Many religions, including Christianity, have a long tradition of praying with beads.
“Paternoster” beads in particular have been around for centuries. You are probably more familiar with the famous prayer that developed from them—the Rosary!
Christians in the early centuries of the Church used prayer beads the same way we do—to keep track of their prayers. To begin with, they just used loose beads or pebbles—later, cords of beads developed.
The prayers said on these beads varied but often they were used to recite the “Pater Noster” —the “Our Father” in Latin. So these cords were known as “paternoster” beads.
These beads were not only helpful to keep track of prayers (and occupy fidgeting fingers!), but also came to be carried by religious orders as part of their habit and by the laity as a mark of penance, faith, and devotion.
Devotions such as the Rosary joined with the paternoster bead tradition, and today our most commonly used beads are the five or fifteen-decade rosary beads.
Prayer beads are a longstanding tradition in the Church. You can continue this tradition wherever you go with a St. Joseph Decade Rosary Bracelet! This bracelet will remind you of St. Joseph and allow you to pray the Rosary when you’re on the go. Get yours today at The Catholic Company!
