Catholic sacramentals · Rosaries and coronillas
Historical origin: Various contemporary devotions, twenty-first century.
What is and what is not
This object or practice belongs to the field of Catholic piety and must be understood from the general doctrine of the sacramentals. The sacramentals are sacred signs instituted by the Church who, by their prayer, prepare to receive grace and sanctify the circumstances of life. They do not confer grace in the same way as the seven sacraments and do not act automatically. Matter, color, or form have no magic power.
History
With the name "Rosary of Blood Tears" there are different practices, often linked to images that are said to have cried or to local private revelations. They should not be confused with the Marian Rosary or the former Crown of the Seven Dolores. Each story requires to examine place, competent ecclesiastical authority and current state; repetition on the Internet does not amount to approval. The image of Mary's tears can be legitimately understood from the Gospel, especially her presence at the foot of the cross, without affirming as a supernatural fact an unrecognized case.
Its development is inserted into a broader Christian history. From the first centuries, the faithful used the sign of the cross, blessings, water, oil, clothing, pilgrimage and images to keep alive the memory of Baptism and the communion of the saints. In the Middle Ages, the cofradies and reduced forms of religious habits grew; the Modern Age multiplied rituals, medals and sanctuary memories. The contemporary liturgical reform called for a review of these practices so that they lead to the liturgy, sprout from it and avoid superstitions.
Christian use and blessing
The Passion and the pain of Mary can be meditated with biblical texts and approved prayers. No automatic promises are attributed or so-called messages are spread without indicating their ecclesial state.
The blessing must be done with a rite approved and by the competent minister. The faithful responds to that prayer by living the Gospel: faith, hope, charity, participation in the Eucharist, confession when necessary and works of mercy. A sacramental does not replace a medical consultation, a prudent decision or moral duty.
doctrinal sources for deepening
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1667-1679
- Code of Canon Law, 1166-1172
- Directory on popular piety and liturgy
